Description
An Oklahoma onion burger is a distinct regional variation of the traditional American smash burger. Unlike standard burgers where onions are simply diced or served as a cold raw topping, this dish incorporates sliced yellow onions directly into the cooking process.
Ingredients
Scale
Serves 4
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80/20
- 1 large yellow onion, very thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- Pickles, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Slice the onion as thinly as possible. Separate the slices into loose strands.
- Shape the beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls. Do not overwork the meat.
- Heat the skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high to high heat. Add the butter or oil.
- Cook the onions: Add a generous handful of sliced onions to the hot skillet for each burger. Place a beef ball directly on top of each pile of onions.
- Smash: Using a sturdy spatula, firmly smash the beef into a very thin patty, pressing the onions into the meat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Let the burgers cook undisturbed for about 2–3 minutes, until the edges are browned and crispy and the onions are caramelized.
- Flip: Scrape underneath the patty carefully and flip it. Place a slice of American cheese on top and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the beef is cooked through.
- Toast the buns: Toast the cut sides of the buns in the skillet until lightly golden.
- Assemble: Spread mayonnaise and mustard on the buns. Place the cheesy onion burger inside and add pickles if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately while the burger is hot and the onion edges are crispy.
Notes
For the best Oklahoma Onion Burger experience, serve it hot with crispy fries, pickles, or a simple side salad. The thin, caramelized onions and melted cheese make this classic burger especially delicious straight from the skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: ~650 kcal
Keywords: Oklahoma smash burger, onion smashed burger, fried onion burger, El Reno onion burger