Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a classic burger style from the state of Oklahoma, known for their unique preparation involving thinly sliced onions that are cooked directly with the burger patty, resulting in a flavorful, crispy crust. Here’s how to make them at home:
Ingredients
- For the Burgers:
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juiciness)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese (American or cheddar), ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions:
- Thinly slice the onion and set aside.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into thin patties, slightly larger than the hamburger buns. They will shrink slightly during cooking.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If you prefer, you can use a cast iron skillet for a better sear.
- Place the patties in the hot skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Quickly place a handful of the thinly sliced onions on top of each patty. Press the onions gently into the meat using a spatula.
- Smash and Cook:
- Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, press down firmly on each patty to smash it into the onions. This helps the onions caramelize and stick to the meat.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until a crispy crust forms and the juices start to rise to the top. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If adding cheese, place a slice on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt it.
- Toast the Buns:
- While the burgers are cooking, split the hamburger buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast the buns in a separate skillet or under the broiler until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place each cooked patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
- Add your preferred toppings and condiments. Common options include lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.
- Serve:
- Top each burger with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Tips
- Onion Thickness: Thinly sliced onions work best as they cook quickly and integrate well with the burger patty.
- Burger Press: Using a burger press or spatula to smash the patties helps create the signature crispy onion crust.
- Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for burger doneness. Ground beef should be cooked to at least 160°F (71°C) for safety.
These Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger, offering a crispy, flavorful bite with every mouthful. Enjoy!