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Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

Originating in the heart of Oklahoma during the Great Depression, fried onion burgers are a testament to simple, hearty cooking. Thin, juicy beef patties meet sweet, caramelized onions pressed right into the meat and seared on a hot griddle or skillet.
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ lb. ground beef
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 hamburger buns
  • 5 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • Additional toppings of your choice lettuce, pickles, mustard, etc.

Method
 

Prepare the beef:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined. Divide the meat into 5 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
Cook the onions:
  1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the thinly sliced onions in five small piles in the skillet, spreading them slightly to form a base for the burgers.
Assemble and cook the burgers:
  1. Place one ball of ground beef on top of each onion pile. Using a spatula, press the meat down firmly to flatten it and press the onions into the burger. Cook the burgers onion side down for about 6 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown. Flip the burgers carefully and cook the other side until done to your desired level of doneness.
Add cheese and buns:
  1. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Top with the cooked burger.
Finish and serve:
  1. Add any additional toppings you like—lettuce, pickles, mustard, or ketchup—and place the top bun on the burger. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
  2. Enjoy!