Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers are a glorious nod to classic diner fare that’s big on flavor and irresistibly juicy, all with just a handful of simple ingredients. This beloved regional favorite features paper-thin onions pressed right into sizzling beef patties, resulting in the ultimate caramelized crust and savory bite. Whether you’re a burger aficionado or just craving something wildly delicious, nothing quite beats the crispy edges, melty cheese, and sweet-savory onion magic you get with every mouthwatering bite of Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mountain of groceries to make perfect Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers; in fact, it’s the minimalism that lets each ingredient shine. Let’s break down what each component brings to the table—and why you don’t want to skip a single one.
- Ground Beef (80/20 blend): This ratio offers the ideal balance of juiciness and flavor, giving your patties that signature diner sizzle and tender bite.
- Yellow Onion: Thinly sliced, these cook down into sweet, golden bits that almost melt into the burger—try a mandoline for super-thin perfection.
- Salt: Simple seasoning is all you need to bring out the beef’s natural depth and the onion’s sweetness.
- Black Pepper: A few shakes add a gentle kick, balancing the savory beef and caramelized onions.
- Vegetable Oil: This gives your skillet a nice, even coating and encourages a crisp, golden crust on each burger.
- Hamburger Buns: Soft, squishy buns are ideal for soaking up all those flavor-packed juices and melted cheese.
- American Cheese (or preferred cheese): Melts gloriously over the patties, adding creamy richness and delicious nostalgia.
- Optional Toppings (pickles, mustard, ketchup): These classics let you riff on tradition—layer them up or keep it simple to let the onions shine.
How to Make Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers
Step 1: Shape the Burger Patties
Start by loosely dividing your ground beef into four even balls—about four ounces each. Avoid overworking or packing them too tightly; you want lots of craggy edges that will crisp up beautifully on the grill. This simple step sets the stage for juicy, tender Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers with irresistible edges.
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
Fire up a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and drizzle in the vegetable oil. Give it a minute to get good and hot—when you see the oil shimmering, you’re ready to get smashing. The sizzle is your friend here, promising ultra-crispy edges and a smoky aroma that fills the kitchen.
Step 3: Smash with Onions
Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet, then immediately pile a big handful of those paper-thin onions on top. Grab a sturdy spatula, and with confidence, smash the burger flat right into the onions. Press hard enough to really meld the layers together. Season with salt and black pepper, then watch as the onions start to soften, caramelize, and perfume your kitchen.
Step 4: Flip and Melt the Cheese
After about two to three minutes, when the burger edges are crisp and onions golden, flip each patty—onions down! This is where the magic really happens: the onions get pressed into the griddle, achieving peak caramelization. Top each patty with your favorite cheese right away so it starts to ooze and melt as the burgers finish cooking, just one to two minutes more.
Step 5: Toast and Assemble
For a little extra love, briefly toast the buns on the skillet so they soak up any savory bits left behind. Then, nestle each cheesy, onion-studded patty onto a bun. Add pickles, ketchup, or mustard—pile on your favorites or keep it classic. Now, bite in and enjoy those layers of flavor and crunch that make Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers so unforgettable!
How to Serve Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers
Garnishes
A pile of tangy pickles brings the perfect pop, while a squiggle of yellow mustard or a swipe of creamy ketchup balances the savory richness. For a little extra zing, try a sprinkling of finely diced raw onions or a few crisp lettuce leaves on top of these Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers.
Side Dishes
These burgers shine with some crispy golden fries, a pile of kettle chips, or even a fresh backyard salad if you’re feeling virtuous. Classic diner fare is the goal—think coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple side of roasted veggies to complete your Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your next cookout into a DIY burger bar! Set up an array of fun toppings—think spicy jalapeños, tangy slaw, zippy aioli, or even fried eggs for an over-the-top treat. You can also double-stack the patties for a towering experience or cut the burgers into quarters for game day sliders that capture all the magic of full-sized Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers individually in foil or plastic wrap, then tuck them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay tasty and moist for up to two days—though those irresistible crispy bits are best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, freeze the cooked burger patties (minus buns and fresh toppings) in a single layer, separated by parchment, for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. The onions hold up well, locking in flavor for quick weeknight meals.
Reheating
To reheat, place burgers (onions and cheese included) in a hot skillet for a couple minutes on each side, or warm them in a 350°F oven loosely wrapped in foil. Skip the microwave if you can—it’ll zap the crispiness that makes Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers so special!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While yellow onions are traditional and melt into sweet perfection, white or sweet onions also work nicely. Just be sure to slice thinly so they caramelize quickly and blend into those juicy burgers.
What’s the best beef blend for Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers?
An 80/20 blend (80 percent lean, 20 percent fat) is your best friend for juicy, flavorful patties that fry up with that crave-worthy edge. Avoid extra-lean versions, as they’ll dry out instead of sizzle.
Do I need a burger press?
While a heavy-duty burger press yields the most even results, a sturdy spatula works just as well. The key is to press firmly as soon as the beef hits the skillet, so those onions meld right into the meat.
Can I make Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers on a grill?
Definitely! Use a flat griddle or cast-iron pan directly on your grill grates. This lets you get the high heat and perfect sear without worrying about onions falling through the cracks.
How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?
Don’t overwork the meat when forming patties, and let the crust form before flipping. The melted cheese and caramelized onions help hold everything together, making each Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger sturdy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an ultra-satisfying, flavor-packed meal that’s pure comfort, Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers are the answer. They’re easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for a backyard get-together—give them a try, and odds are, they’ll end up in your regular rotation!
Print
Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers at home with this easy recipe. These flavorful burgers are a classic American favorite, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese or your preferred cheese
- Optional toppings: pickles, mustard, ketchup
Instructions
- Divide and Smash: Divide the ground beef into 4 balls. Heat a skillet, add oil, place beef balls, top with onions, and smash flat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cook for 2–3 minutes until crispy. Flip, add cheese, and melt slightly. Toast buns if desired.
- Assemble: Place each patty on a bun, add desired toppings, and serve.
Notes
- Slice onions very thin for authentic flavor.
- Avoid overworking the beef when forming patties.
- Double-stack patties for a heartier burger.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
