Description
Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers are a deliciously crispy and flavorful burger variation featuring thinly sliced sweet onions caramelized directly on the griddle under smashed beef patties. This quick 20-minute recipe yields juicy, crispy-edged burgers topped with melted cheese and served on toasted buns, perfect for an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, very thinly sliced (use a mandoline if possible)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 burger buns
- Butter or oil for the griddle
Optional Toppings
- Pickles
- Mustard
- Ketchup
- Lettuce
Instructions
- Prep the Onions: Slice the onion as thin as possible to create a pile of paper-thin onion slices. These thin onions will cook quickly and caramelize nicely to add sweetness to the burger.
- Form the Meat Balls: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion loosely into a ball shape, being careful not to overwork the meat or season it yet.
- Heat the Griddle or Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the cooking surface with butter or oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Smash the Burgers: Place a pile of the sliced onions directly onto the hot griddle. Immediately place one beef ball on top and use a spatula or burger press to smash it down hard until it is thin and flat, pressing the onions into the meat. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook Until Crispy: Cook the patties without moving them for 2–3 minutes until the edges become brown and crispy. Flip the patty so the onions are on the bottom side and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize and stick to the meat.
- Add Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cover the burgers with a lid or metal bowl to help the cheese melt evenly and thoroughly.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns face-down on the griddle or in a separate skillet until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble: Place the onion-smashed patties on the bottom buns, add your preferred toppings such as pickles and mustard, then crown with the top bun. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife for thin, even onion slices.
- Do not overwork or tightly pack the beef balls to keep burgers juicy.
- A cast iron skillet or griddle provides the best heat for crisping and caramelizing.
- Pressing the onions into the meat during smashing ensures they stick and flavor every bite.
- Covering the cheese helps it melt faster and more evenly.
- Toast the buns just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
- Optional toppings like pickles and mustard complement the sweet, caramelized onions well.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
