Ah, the Oklahoma fried onion burger! This classic American dish has roots that date back to the Great Depression, when folks were looking for hearty meals on a budget. The idea of mixing crispy, fried onions right into the burger patty is pure genius, adding such amazing flavor and texture. Trust me, when you take a bite, the juicy beef combined with those crunchy onions is a match made in heaven! My recipe captures all of that nostalgia and mouthwatering goodness, making it easy to whip up this comfort food classic in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef: Use a good quality beef, preferably 80/20 for that perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. It makes all the difference in your burger experience!
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Sweet or yellow onions work beautifully here; just make sure to slice them thin so they get nice and crispy.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This is essential for soaking the onions, giving them a tender texture and rich flavor—don’t skip it!
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: You’ll want this for dredging the onions. Make sure it’s packed well for a good coating.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy; it really enhances the flavors of the beef and onions.
- 4 hamburger buns: Choose your favorite buns! Sesame seed or potato buns add a nice touch.
- 4 slices American cheese (optional): If you’re feeling cheesy, go for it! Melted cheese on a hot patty is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pickles, lettuce, and tomato for topping: These fresh toppings add a nice crunch and brightness to your burger. Customize to your heart’s content!
How to Prepare Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get down to the deliciousness of making your Oklahoma fried onion burger! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve that crispy, flavorful burger you crave. It’s easier than you think, and trust me, the results are absolutely worth it!
Step 1: Soak the Onions
First things first, let’s soak those onion slices in buttermilk! This step is crucial because it tenderizes the onions and infuses them with flavor. Just toss your thinly sliced onions into a bowl, pour in the buttermilk, and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. If you have time to spare, feel free to let them soak longer—this will only enhance their flavor and texture. Wow, the aroma alone is enough to get you excited!
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture
While the onions are soaking, grab a bowl and mix together your flour, salt, and pepper. I like to add a good pinch of salt to ensure those crispy onions are well seasoned. The flour coating is what gives the onions that perfect crunch when they hit the hot oil, so make sure it’s well combined. You could even add a pinch of paprika for a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 3: Fry the Onions
Time to fry! Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat—around 350°F (175°C) is what you’re aiming for. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s showtime! Dredge those soaked onions in your flour mixture, shaking off any excess, and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry them until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 3–5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect crispy texture without burning. The smell will have your mouth watering!
Step 4: Cook the Beef Patties
Next, let’s move on to the beef patties! Shape your ground beef into four equally sized patties, making them slightly larger than your buns since they’ll shrink a bit while cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper—don’t skimp on this part! Cook the patties in the same skillet for about 3–4 minutes on each side for that juicy, medium-rare center. And here’s a pro tip: add the fried onions on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking for that extra burst of flavor! Yum!
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Toast your hamburger buns in the skillet for about a minute until they’re nice and warm. Then, place the beef patty with those crispy onions on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of American cheese if you’re going for that melty goodness. Top it off with your favorite fresh toppings like pickles, lettuce, and tomato. Don’t forget the top bun! And there you have it—a mouthwatering Oklahoma fried onion burger ready to devour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy beef, crispy fried onions, and your choice of toppings creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your taste! Whether you want to switch up the cheese or add extra veggies, the options are endless.
- Perfectly Satisfying: Each bite is packed with texture and taste—this burger is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and happy!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this burger! It’s a fun, hands-on meal that everyone can enjoy together.
- Comfort Food Classic: You’re not just making a burger; you’re creating a true taste of Americana that brings a bit of nostalgia with every bite.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Oklahoma fried onion burger turns out absolutely fantastic! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this delicious dish:
- Onion Quantity: Feel free to adjust the amount of onions based on your personal taste. If you love that crispy onion goodness, go ahead and double the amount! Just remember to soak them in buttermilk longer for the best flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While American cheese is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment! Cheddar, pepper jack, or even Swiss can add a delightful twist. Try mixing cheeses for a fun flavor combo.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil temperature! Too hot and the onions will burn; too cool and they’ll become soggy. A digital thermometer can be your best friend here—aim for about 350°F (175°C).
- Patty Thickness: Make sure your beef patties are about ½ inch thick for even cooking. If they’re too thick, they might not cook through properly, and if they’re too thin, they’ll dry out.
- Let the Patties Rest: After cooking, let your patties rest for a couple of minutes before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a juicier bite!
- Fun Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Avocado, jalapeños, or even a fried egg can elevate your burger to a whole new level.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect Oklahoma fried onion burger that’ll impress your family and friends—trust me, they won’t be able to resist!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutrition, it’s important to remember that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. The typical serving size for an Oklahoma fried onion burger is about 1 burger, which contains approximately 500 calories. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
If you have any questions about specific nutritional values or need help with dietary adjustments, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you make this delicious burger fit your lifestyle.
FAQ Section
What makes an Oklahoma fried onion burger different from a regular burger?
The magic of an Oklahoma fried onion burger lies in its crispy fried onions mixed right into the beef patty. This technique not only adds fantastic flavor but also gives the burger a delicious crunch that sets it apart from traditional burgers. It’s all about that combination of juicy beef and crispy texture!
Can I use different types of onions?
Absolutely! While sweet or yellow onions are traditional, you can experiment with red onions for a sharper flavor or even green onions for a milder taste. Just remember to slice them thin for optimal crispiness when frying.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the beef patties in advance! Just shape them and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together a bit more.
What sides pair well with Oklahoma fried onion burgers?
These burgers are perfect with classic sides like French fries or onion rings. You could also serve a fresh salad or coleslaw for a nice crunch and some acidity to balance out the richness of the burger.
Are Oklahoma fried onion burgers gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your hamburger buns are also gluten-free. With these adjustments, you can enjoy this delicious burger without any worries!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Oklahoma fried onion burgers (which can be a good problem to have!), storing them properly will help keep that deliciousness intact. Start by letting the burgers cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven or a skillet rather than the microwave to maintain that crispy texture of the fried onions and the juiciness of the beef. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the burgers on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can even cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out.
If you choose the skillet method, simply heat a bit of oil over medium heat, then add the burgers for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re heated through and the onions regain their crunch. And voila! You’re ready to enjoy your tasty leftovers just like they were fresh off the grill. Trust me, the flavor is still there, and it feels like a little treat all over again!
Print
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger: 5 Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Oklahoma fried onion burger combines juicy beef patties with crispy fried onions for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Pickles, lettuce, and tomato for topping
Instructions
- Soak the onion slices in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Dredge the soaked onions in flour and fry until golden brown.
- Form the ground beef into patties and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the patties on the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Add fried onions on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking.
- Toast the hamburger buns in the skillet for a minute.
- Assemble the burgers with cheese, pickles, lettuce, and tomato.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of onions based on your preference.
- You can use other types of cheese if desired.
- Serve with fries or a salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Oklahoma fried onion burger, onion burger, American burger











