Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

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The Ultimate Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers Recipe

If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger with crispy caramelized onions, look no further than the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger. This classic American diner-style burger is packed with savory goodness, featuring thinly sliced onions smashed into the beef patties for an irresistible crunch and deep flavor. It’s simple, quick to make, and absolutely delicious—a must-try for burger lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor – Caramelized onions infuse the beef with rich, sweet, and savory notes.  Crispy & Juicy – The contrast of crispy onions and juicy beef is unbeatable.  Easy & Quick – Made with just a few pantry staples in under 30 minutes.  Classic Diner-Style – Brings the nostalgic taste of an old-school burger joint right to your kitchen

Ingredients & Their Role

  • 1 large onion, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced – The star ingredient! Sliced thin and cooked until golden brown, these onions provide a sweet, crispy bite that enhances the burger.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Helps draw moisture from the onions and seasons the patties.
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended) – Provides the perfect balance of fat for juicy, flavorful burgers.
  • 1 tablespoon butter & 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Used for frying, these add richness and a crispy crust to the onions and beef.
  • 4-8 slices American cheese – Melts perfectly over the burgers, adding a classic creamy touch.
  • Mayo, mustard, and pickles – The essential condiments for tangy, creamy, and crunchy contrast.
  • 4 hamburger buns, toasted – Toasted buns hold up better to the juicy patty and add a slight crisp.

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Onions

  • In a bowl, toss thinly sliced onions with 1 teaspoon of salt.
  • Transfer the onions to a colander and let sit for 30 minutes, tossing occasionally.
  • Wrap the onions in a clean dish towel and squeeze out excess moisture over the sink. This helps the onions crisp up beautifully during cooking.

2. Form the Burger Patties

  • Divide the onions into 4 separate mounds on a baking sheet.
  • Shape the ground beef into 4 loosely packed balls.
  • Place each beef ball on top of an onion mound, then firmly flatten using your palm or a spatula to create 4-inch wide patties.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the Burgers

  • Heat butter and vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
  • Using a large spatula, transfer patties to the skillet, onion-side down.
  • Cook for 6-8 minutes until onions turn deep golden brown and crispy.
  • Flip the burgers, increase heat to high, and cook for 2 minutes until well browned.

4. Add Cheese & Assemble

  • Place 1-2 slices of American cheese on each patty and allow to melt.
  • Spread mayo, mustard, and pickles on the top buns.
  • Place each burger on the bottom bun, add the top bun, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

Use White or Yellow Onions – They caramelize beautifully for the best flavor. Thinly Slice the Onions – The thinner the slices, the crispier they get.  Don’t Overwork the Beef – Lightly packed patties result in a more tender, juicy burger.  Press the Patties Firmly – Helps the onions stick and ensures even cooking.  Use a Cast-Iron Skillet – For that perfect crispy crust on the burgers.

Serving Suggestions

With Crispy Fries – Classic diner-style pairing with ketchup or aioli. Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness of the burger. Milkshake or Soda – A creamy vanilla shake or an ice-cold soda complements the flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious take on a classic burger. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a quick and easy meal that brings old-school diner nostalgia to your kitchen. Try it today and watch it become a household favorite!