Description
Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers are a quick and flavorful twist on the classic cheeseburger. This recipe features paper-thin caramelized onions pressed directly into the beef patty for a sweet, crispy, and juicy burger experience. Cooked on a griddle or cast iron skillet, these smashed burgers deliver crispy edges and melty cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, very thinly sliced (preferably with a mandoline)
- 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 paper-thin layers that will cook quickly and develop a sweet, caramelized flavor under the burger.
- Form the Meat Balls: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball without seasoning yet to allow for easy smashing and even cooking.
- Heat the Griddle or Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease the surface with butter or oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Smash the Burgers: Place a mound of thinly sliced onions directly onto the hot griddle, top immediately with one beef ball, and press down forcefully with a spatula or burger press to create a thin patty with onions pressed into the meat. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook Until Crispy: Cook the smashed burger without moving for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges turn brown and crispy. Flip the patty so the onions are on the bottom and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize and adhere to the beef.
- Add Cheese: Place a slice of cheese on the burger during the last minute of cooking. Cover with a lid or metal bowl to help the cheese melt evenly and quickly.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers finish cooking, lightly toast the buns face down on the griddle or in a separate skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble: Place the onion-smashed patties on the bottom half of the buns, add optional toppings like pickles and mustard to your liking, then top with the remaining bun halves and serve immediately for maximum juiciness and flavor.
Notes
- Use an 80/20 beef blend for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Thinly sliced onions are key for fast caramelization and texture.
- Press the patties thin for crispy edges and better flavor.
- Covering the patty while melting cheese helps achieve perfect melting.
- Customize toppings based on your preferences, such as lettuce, ketchup, or pickles.
- Cast iron skillet or griddle is ideal for even heat and crispiness.
