These Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! The best part? They’re made with lots of onions mixed right into the beef for an extra tasty bite.
Honestly, who can resist a burger that smells this good while cooking? I love piling on my favorite toppings and savoring every bite. 🍔 It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For this recipe, I recommend using 80/20 ground beef because it has the right balance of fat for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 90/10, but your burgers may be a bit less juicy.
Yellow Onion: Yellow onions are perfect here for their sweetness when cooked. If you want a milder flavor, opt for sweet onions or even green onions for a fresh twist!
American Cheddar Cheese: This cheese melts well and gives that classic burger taste. You can switch to any cheese you like, such as Swiss or pepper jack for some extra flavor.
Hamburger Buns: I prefer soft, slightly sweet buns which complement the flavors. Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed!
How Do You Make Sure Your Burgers Are Juicy and Delicious?
To ensure juicy and flavorful burgers, the mixing and cooking methods really matter. Be gentle when mixing the beef with the onions; overmixing can lead to tough burgers. Aim for a lightly packed mixture.
- Press down on the patties in the skillet. This helps the onions caramelize into the meat and creates those crispy edges that are so tasty.
- Don’t rush cooking! Let the patties cook until they’re browned, and then flip them carefully. This allows a nice crust to form.
- Cheese goes on after flipping, so it melts perfectly while the burger finishes cooking. It’s a simple step, but it elevates the flavor!
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices of American cheddar cheese
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- Optional: mustard, pickles, or your favorite burger toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious Oklahoma onion burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a thin and wide patty that is about the size of your hamburger bun. This helps them cook evenly and fit nicely on your buns!
3. Heat Your Skillet:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the burger patties to the pan.
4. Press Down for Flavor:
As soon as you place the patties in the skillet, press down on each one with a spatula. This flattens the patties and helps the onions caramelize into the meat, giving great flavor and a crispy edge.
5. Cooking the Patties:
Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes or until the edges are beautifully crispy and browned. Flip the patties carefully to avoid them breaking apart.
6. Add the Cheese:
As soon as you flip the patties, place a slice of American cheddar cheese over each one. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
7. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, lightly toast the hamburger buns either in the skillet or in the oven. A little crispness goes a long way!
8. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble! Place an onion burger patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Feel free to add any optional toppings like mustard or pickles!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Oklahoma onion burgers are ready to be served hot! Enjoy with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
This recipe captures the essence of Oklahoma onion burgers, combining juicy beef with soft onions, melted cheese, and a fresh bun. The technique of pressing the patties ensures tasty, crispy edges that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken! Just keep in mind that they are leaner, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or additional seasoning to enhance the flavor and moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them on a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, making sure to add a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze the Patties for Later Use?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties and freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What Toppings Do You Recommend for This Burger?
While the classic onion and cheddar are delicious, feel free to experiment! Add toppings like crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, mustard, or pickles for extra flavor and crunch. Try caramelized onions or BBQ sauce for a unique twist!
