**Ingredients**
– 1 pound of ground beef (80% lean for juiciness)
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Butter for toasting buns
– Sliced pickles (optional)
– Cheese slices (optional)
– Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise (optional condiments)
### **Instructions**
#### 1. **Preparation**
– Begin by thinly slicing the onions. The thinner the slices, the better they’ll integrate with the burger.
– Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or a griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly butter the hamburger buns and set them aside for toasting later.
#### 2. **Forming the Patties**
– Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll them into balls but avoid overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
– Place a handful of onions on top of each ball of meat.
#### 3. **Cooking**
– Place the beef balls (with onions on top) onto the hot skillet or griddle. Using a spatula or a burger press, flatten each ball into a thin patty, pressing the onions into the beef.
– Season generously with salt and pepper. Let the burgers cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. The onions will begin to caramelize in the fat from the beef.
#### 4. **Flip & Finish**
– Flip the burgers and press them down again to ensure the onions are well-seared into the beef. Let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until crispy and browned.
– If using cheese, add a slice on top of each patty and cover with a lid for 30 seconds to allow the cheese to melt.
#### 5. **Toasting the Buns**
– While the burgers finish cooking, place the buttered buns on the skillet, cut side down, and toast until golden brown.
#### 6. **Assemble**
– Place the cooked patties onto the toasted buns. Add pickles and your favorite condiments such as ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise. Serve hot!
### **Methods**
– **Smashing the Burgers:** The unique aspect of this recipe lies in smashing the beef onto the skillet, which allows the onions to integrate into the beef patty while achieving a crispy edge.
– **Caramelizing the Onions:** The thinly sliced onions cook directly in the beef’s fat, giving them a caramelized sweetness that enhances the flavor of the burger.
### **Nutritional Information (per serving)**
– **Calories:** 480 kcal
– **Protein:** 28g
– **Fat:** 28g
– **Carbohydrates:** 28g
– **Fiber:** 3g
– **Sodium:** 740 mg
– **Sugars:** 5g
### **Benefits**
– **Affordable Meal:** The use of onions to stretch the ground beef makes this an economical dish.
– **Rich in Flavor:** The caramelized onions add a sweet-savory note, while the beef provides a juicy, meaty bite.
– **Customizable:** You can adjust toppings, add cheese, or even switch up the condiments to suit your preferences.
– **High in Protein:** With ground beef as the main ingredient, these burgers provide a good source of protein to fuel your day.
### **Formation**
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are built in layers:
1. **Base Bun:** Often toasted for texture.
2. **Caramelized Onion-Infused Patty:** The star of the dish, packed with savory goodness.
3. **Pickles and Cheese:** Optional, but commonly added for extra flavor.
4. **Condiments:** Mustard and mayonnaise are popular choices.
5. **Top Bun:** Lightly toasted for a satisfying crunch.
### **Lovers of the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger**
Many burger enthusiasts, particularly in the Midwest, swear by the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger. It’s adored by those who appreciate simplicity done right: minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. Fans of caramelized onions and those who enjoy a thin, crispy-edged patty over a thicker, juicier one often prefer this type of burger.
Food historians, local restaurant owners, and even travelers passing through El Reno make it a point to enjoy this regional specialty. The simplicity of ingredients combined with the cooking method has garnered many loyal followers.
### **Conclusion**
The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger stands as a testament to American culinary ingenuity. What began as a cost-saving measure during hard economic times has evolved into a beloved, flavorful dish. Its unique method of cooking onions into the beef patty gives it a sweet and savory taste that differentiates it from your typical hamburger. Whether you’re a fan of simple comfort food or a burger connoisseur, this dish will win you over with its crispy edges, juicy center, and rich, oniony goodness.
If you’re looking to elevate your burger game, this Oklahoma classic is a must-try! It’s a shining example of how great things can come from simple ingredients.
### **For Lovers of Simple, Flavored Burgers**
The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger appeals to those who love minimalist cooking with maximal flavor. This burger is not about fancy ingredients or complicated techniques; it’s about getting the basics just right. Lovers of crispy edges, caramelized onions, and juicy beef are certain to adore this burger. Its rich history and simple origins make it a favorite among comfort food lovers, especially in the American heartland.