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Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers: A Crispy, Savory Twist on the Classic Burger
If you love burgers that pack a punch of flavor and texture, then Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a must-try! This regional American favorite, hailing from Oklahoma, elevates the humble hamburger with crispy, caramelized onions that are fried directly into the patty, creating a savory, sweet, and crunchy bite in every mouthful. The combination of juicy beef, crispy onions, and a simple yet delicious seasoning makes this burger a real standout.
Whether you’re grilling up burgers for a summer barbecue or craving a delicious, comforting dinner, Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are sure to hit the spot. With just a few ingredients and a unique cooking technique, you can make this delicious twist on a classic burger in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
- Flavor-packed: The fried onions, mixed directly into the beef patty, add a sweet and savory crunch that perfectly complements the juicy, tender beef.
- Crispy, caramelized onions: The key to this burger’s irresistible flavor is the caramelized, crispy onions. They not only add texture but also a smoky-sweet flavor that transforms the whole burger.
- Simple ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, this burger comes together quickly and easily, making it the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or weekend cookout.
- Unique cooking method: The onions are actually mixed into the beef patty before cooking, which is what makes this burger so unique. The result is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, with no need for messy onion rings or extra toppings.
- Customizable: While the basic burger is delicious on its own, you can add your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Ingredients
For the burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean is ideal for juicy burgers)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns (brioche or sesame buns work great)
- Butter (for toasting the buns)
For toppings (optional):
- Sliced cheese (American, cheddar, or your favorite cheese)
- Pickles
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Ketchup and mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by thinly slicing your onion. The onions will be mixed directly into the beef patty, so the thinner you slice them, the better they’ll cook and crisp up. Set the onions aside while you prepare the beef.
Step 2: Mix the Beef and Onions
In a large bowl, take the ground beef and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, add the sliced onions to the beef mixture. Gently mix the beef and onions together. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as it can become tough. The goal is to incorporate the onions evenly into the beef without compacting the mixture too much.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Divide the beef and onion mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink while cooking. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help it cook evenly and prevent puffing up during grilling.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil or butter to the skillet or griddle to prevent sticking. When hot, add the patties to the pan or grill.
Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium burgers, or longer if you prefer them more well-done. As the patties cook, the onions inside will caramelize and crisp up, creating a savory, crunchy texture.
If you’re adding cheese, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt it. Alternatively, you can melt the cheese directly on the grill by placing the buns over the patties during the last minute of cooking.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, slice your buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Place them on the grill or in a separate skillet to toast them until golden brown. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your burgers.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers. Place each patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. From here, you can add your favorite toppings. A classic combination might include pickles, a few slices of tomato, and a few leaves of lettuce. For extra flavor, you can also add some ketchup or mustard, or even barbecue sauce for a smoky touch.
Top with the other half of the bun, and you’re ready to enjoy!
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