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Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers: A Crispy, Juicy Bite of Americana
If you’re a burger lover searching for something uniquely satisfying, let us introduce you to a regional classic that packs bold flavor into every bite: the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger. Born out of the Great Depression as a way to stretch meat further, this iconic burger has since become a beloved staple thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and unforgettable taste. With thin, crispy edges, sweet caramelized onions, and melty cheese—all smashed together on a griddle—this burger proves that sometimes, less really is more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold flavor with minimal ingredients: Just a few humble components come together to create something truly crave-worthy.
- Crispy and juicy: The smashed beef combined with onions caramelized right into the patty gives the burger a crispy, golden crust while staying juicy inside.
- Old-school Americana: This is classic diner fare at its best—a nostalgic bite that transports you to a roadside burger joint in small-town America.
- Quick and easy: No fancy techniques—just a hot griddle, a handful of ingredients, and a few minutes to perfection.
What Makes It Special?
The secret of the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger lies in its preparation. Paper-thin sliced onions are pressed directly into a ball of ground beef and then smashed flat on a hot griddle. As the burger cooks, the onions caramelize and fuse into the meat, creating a sweet-savory crust that’s unlike anything you’ve had in a traditional burger.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef (80/20): The perfect ratio for juicy burgers with just the right amount of fat.
- Yellow onions: Thinly sliced, almost paper-thin. The thinner, the better, for even caramelization.
- Salt and pepper: Just the basics, because the onions and beef are the real stars.
- American cheese: The classic melty cheese of choice, but you can swap in cheddar if preferred.
- Soft hamburger buns: Lightly toasted to hold up to the juicy patty without overpowering it.
- Optional toppings: Pickles, mustard, and mayo are all you need—keep it simple to let the burger shine.
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
1. Prepare the onions:
- Slice yellow onions very thin using a mandoline or sharp knife. The thinner, the better—they should be almost translucent.
2. Form the beef balls:
- Divide ground beef into loose 3-4 oz balls. Don’t pack them tight—you want them loose for easy smashing.
3. Heat the griddle or skillet:
- Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. No oil needed if your pan is well-seasoned; the beef fat will do the work.
4. Assemble and smash:
- Place a beef ball on the hot skillet. Immediately top with a generous mound of thin-sliced onions.
- Use a spatula or burger press to smash the onions and beef flat—press firmly to get a thin, wide patty with onions embedded in it.
- Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook and flip:
- Let the burger cook without moving it for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and the onions are caramelized.
- Flip the burger carefully, making sure the onions stay attached. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
