These Oklahoma onion burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! The secret is mixing sweet, caramelized onions right into the beef, making every bite a tasty surprise.
They’re super easy to whip up and are a hit at backyard barbecues! I love adding cheese for an extra gooey treat. Trust me, you won’t want to skip the onions—they make it special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is ideal as it adds flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use ground turkey or chicken, but they may not be as rich in flavor.
Yellow Onions: These are my favorite for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you can’t find them, white onions also work well, though they have a sharper taste. Shallots could be a nice upscale twist, too!
Buns: I suggest using hamburger buns for a classic experience. You can swap them for whole grain or gluten-free buns, depending on your preference. Homemade buns can elevate the burger if you have the time!
Cheese: American cheese is popular for its meltiness. If you want something more robust, try cheddar or Swiss. For a non-dairy option, look for plant-based cheese slices.
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions makes them flavorful and sweet, but it does take some patience. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-high heat to get the onions sizzling, then lower to medium to prevent burning.
- Add a bit of salt during cooking to help release moisture.
- Stir occasionally but let them sit to develop color. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
Shiny, brown onions will really take your burger to the next level!
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns, buttered
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Optional: pickles, mustard, ketchup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights or weekend barbecues!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to let them cook until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a thin patty that’s slightly larger than your bun. Don’t forget to season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the Patties with Onions:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and heat over medium-high. Place each beef patty in the skillet and immediately top with a generous scoop of the caramelized onions. Press the onions down lightly into the beef to ensure they stick.
4. Browning the Patties:
Cook the patties, topped with onions, for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until nicely browned and cooked through. Flip them carefully, trying to keep the onions embedded in the meat as much as possible.
5. Melting the Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese over each patty, covering the skillet to help it melt quick and easy. Meanwhile, toast the buttered buns in a separate pan or under the broiler until they’re golden brown.
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once everything is ready, assemble your burgers by placing the onion-topped patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun. Add any extras you like—pickles, mustard, or ketchup—and then top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Oklahoma onion burgers!
Delicious and juicy, these burgers will surely become a favorite at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While leaner ground beef will work, it may result in a drier burger. The 80/20 blend is recommended for optimal flavor and juiciness. If you do use lean beef, consider adding a bit of oil or butter to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covering to retain moisture.
Can I Make the Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them when you’re ready to assemble your burgers.
What Toppings Are Best for Oklahoma Onion Burgers?
Aside from the classic pickles and ketchup, you can also try adding sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños for a kick, or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile. Get creative and customize them to your taste!
