Description
Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a flavorful twist on classic burgers that feature a generous topping of sweet, caramelized onions pressed directly into thinly smashed beef patties. These cheesy, juicy burgers are cooked quickly on a hot skillet, achieving a delicious sear and melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 1 lb. (80/20) ground beef
- 4 (1-oz.) slices American cheese
Vegetables and Bread
- 2 medium-size (10 oz. each) sweet onions
- 4 potato hamburger buns, split (such as Martin’s)
Seasoning
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
Instructions
- Divide ground beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 round balls, each weighing 4 ounces. Set these aside on a plate ready for cooking.
- Slice onions: Thinly slice the sweet onions using a mandoline or a sharp knife until you have paper-thin slices totaling about 2 cups.
- Cook hamburger patties: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat for 1 minute until very hot. Place the beef balls on the skillet and evenly sprinkle each with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
- Top with onions: Place about 1/2 cup of the sliced onions on top of each beef ball, gently pressing the onions into the beef.
- Smash the patties: Using a grill press or a heavy, wide spatula, press down each ball to form thin patties about 1/4-inch thick. Cook the patties for 2 minutes without moving them to achieve a good sear.
- Flip patties and add buns: Carefully flip each patty over. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on each patty, then top each with the top half of a split potato bun. Place the bottom half of the bun on top of the bun tops, effectively sandwiching the cheese and patty between the bun halves. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the patties are browned, the onions are slightly caramelized, and an internal thermometer reads 140°F for medium doneness.
- Finish assembly and serve: Remove the patties with buns from the skillet carefully. Place the bottom bun halves on plates, top them with cooked patties, then place the bun tops on the patties. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- For best results, use a cast-iron skillet or griddle to get a good sear and caramelization on the onions.
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for a mellow, natural sweetness.
- Pressing the onions into the patties helps them cook into the meat, adding flavor and moisture.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe and desired doneness (140°F for medium).
- Optional: Serve with classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
