Description
Oklahoma onion burgers are thin, crispy-edged smash burgers made by pressing a generous layer of finely sliced onions directly into the beef as it cooks. Served on toasted buns with melted American cheese and classic toppings like pickles and mustard, these burgers are simple, juicy, and bursting with caramelized onion flavor, offering a unique and delicious twist on a traditional American cheeseburger.
Ingredients
Beef and Onion
- 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 preferred
- 1 large yellow onion, very thinly sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Toppings and Buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Pickles, for serving
- Yellow mustard, for serving
Instructions
- Form and Season Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely form each into a ball. Season all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Pan: Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil to prevent sticking and ensure proper searing.
- Smash Patties: Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet and immediately press down each ball into a very thin patty using a sturdy spatula for the signature thin, crispy edges.
- Add Onions: Generously cover each patty with the thinly sliced onions, pressing them firmly into the beef so they cook directly against the meat and effectively caramelize.
- Cook First Side: Cook the patties for 2–3 minutes until a deeply browned, crispy crust forms on the beef and the onions start to caramelize nicely.
- Flip Patties: Carefully flip the burgers so the onions face down against the skillet. Cook on this side for an additional 1–2 minutes to further caramelize the onions.
- Melt Cheese: Place a slice of American cheese on each patty and allow it to melt over the heat while finishing cooking.
- Toast Buns: Butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns and toast them cut-side down in the same skillet until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble Burgers: Place the cheesy onion patties on the toasted buns and top with pickles and yellow mustard. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Slice onions as thinly as possible to ensure they cook quickly and caramelize thoroughly.
- Do not press the burgers after the initial smashing to keep the juices inside and maintain juiciness.
- American cheese melts particularly well, but you can substitute cheddar cheese if preferred.
- A cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle works best for achieving the iconic crispy crust on the burger.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Burgers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
