Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a delicious regional take on the traditional American burger, incorporating crispy fried onions directly into the patty. This recipe celebrates the deep roots of Oklahoma’s burger culture, where the combination of juicy beef, sweet onions, and a crispy exterior creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion. The technique of smashing the onions into the beef ensures a savory bite with each mouthful, offering a unique texture and taste unlike any other burger. Perfect for grilling season or a hearty weeknight meal, these burgers are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juicy burgers)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- For the Fried Onions:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For Assembling the Burgers:
- Burger buns (preferably soft and slightly toasted)
- Lettuce (optional)
- Tomato slices (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
- Condiments: ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fried Onions:
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Pour the buttermilk into another shallow bowl.
- Dip the onion rings into the buttermilk, then coat them evenly with the seasoned flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), fry the onion rings in batches, making sure they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried onions from the skillet and drain on a paper towel. Set aside.
- Prepare the Burger Patties:
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix lightly to incorporate without overworking the meat.
- Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, pressing them flat. The patties should be slightly larger than the buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little oil if needed.
- Place the patties onto the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. Then, flip the patties and immediately place a generous amount of fried onions on top. Smash the onions into the patty using a spatula, creating a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the patties are fully cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired.
- Place the cooked patties with the crispy fried onions on the bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and condiments, if desired.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.