Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a flavor-packed, crispy, and juicy twist on the traditional hamburger. This iconic dish originated during the Great Depression when onions were used to stretch ground beef, making it more affordable. Today, it remains a beloved classic, known for its deep caramelized onion flavor, crispy edges, and juicy beef patty.

If you love smash burgers and griddled onions, this is a must-try recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Crispy, Juicy, and Flavorful – The onions caramelize beautifully, infusing the beef with rich flavor.
✔ Easy to Make – Only a few ingredients and a hot skillet are needed.
✔ Perfectly Smashable – The thin patty and crispy edges create the ultimate bite.
✔ Classic American Comfort Food – A nostalgic burger that’s still wildly popular today.

Ingredients (Makes 4 Burgers)

🥩 For the Burgers:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio for juiciness)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

🍞 For Assembling:

4 hamburger buns (buttered and toasted)
4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
2 tablespoons butter (for toasting buns)
Pickles (optional)
Mustard or mayo (for serving)

🛠 Equipment Needed:

Large cast-iron skillet or griddle
Spatula (for smashing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Peel and slice the onions as thinly as possible.
Toss with a pinch of salt to draw out moisture (this helps them caramelize faster).

Step 2: Form and Smash the Burgers

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls (do not overwork the meat).
Season each with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Flatten them slightly, but keep them loose and not packed tightly.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers & Onions

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
Add a little oil or butter to the pan.
Place a ball of ground beef onto the skillet, immediately top with a handful of sliced onions, and smash it down firmly with a spatula.
Press down until the patty is about ¼-inch thick.
Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, without disturbing, until the edges are crispy.
Flip the burger with the onions attached (they should be golden brown).

Step 4: Add Cheese & Toast the Buns

Place a slice of cheese on top of each burger patty.
Cover with a lid for 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
Meanwhile, butter the buns and toast them in a separate pan until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread mustard or mayo on the toasted buns.
Place the cheesy onion burger onto the bottom bun.
Add pickles (optional) and the top bun.
Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness!

Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Onion Burgers

🔥 Use a Hot Skillet – A cast-iron skillet ensures crispy edges and deep caramelization.
🧅 Thinly Slice the Onions – This helps them caramelize and stick to the burger perfectly.
👊 Smash Firmly – Pressing the burger hard onto the skillet creates crispy edges.
🧀 Use Melty Cheese – American cheese melts the best, but cheddar works too.
🥖 Toast the Buns – This prevents sogginess and adds a buttery crunch.

Variations & Add-Ins

🔥 Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
🥓 Bacon Lover’s Burger: Top with crispy bacon for extra flavor.
🍄 Mushroom-Onion Burger: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions.
🥑 California Style: Add avocado and lettuce for freshness.
🍞 Lettuce Wrap Option: Skip the bun and wrap the burger in crisp lettuce for a low-carb version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of onions work best?

Yellow onions are ideal because they caramelize beautifully and have a natural sweetness. White onions work too, but they have a sharper taste.