Oklahoma Smash Burgers

Learn to make Oklahoma Smash Burgers with thin, crispy patties, caramelized onions, and melty cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. The unique smashing technique ensures a flavorful crust and mouthwatering texture that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various toppings and condiments for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy delicious burgers in no time.
• Crispy Texture: The smashing technique creates a delightful crust that enhances the overall flavor of each patty.
• Customizable: Tailor your burgers with any toppings or condiments you prefer—perfect for picky eaters!
• Flavorful Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet touch that perfectly balances the savory beef.
• Family-Friendly: Great for gatherings, these burgers are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Oklahoma Smash Burgers, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure that you create the perfect burger.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Flat griddle or skillet
• Sturdy spatula
• Tongs
• Nonstick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Flat griddle or skillet: Provides an even cooking surface for perfect burger patties.
• Sturdy spatula: Essential for smashing the patties down while keeping them intact.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the patties without damaging them.

Ingredients

Learn to make Oklahoma Smash Burgers with thin, crispy patties, caramelized onions, and melty cheese. Ideal for a quick and tasty meal.

For the Burger Patties

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly

• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 chicken hamburger buns
• Condiments of choice (mustard, ketchup, pickles, etc.)

Optional Toppings

• Lettuce
• Tomato slices

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Oklahoma Smash Burgers

Step 1: Toast the Buns

Spray a griddle with nonstick spray and toast your buns over medium heat until golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Keep them loosely gathered; do not form into patties yet.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Place a handful of sliced onions on the hot griddle. Put a ball of ground beef on top of the onions.

Step 4: Smash the Patties

Smash the beef into the onions using a sturdy spatula, creating about 1/4 inch thick patties. Season each patty with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 5: Cook Thoroughly

Cook each patty for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy. Flip each patty and cook for another minute. Add a slice of cheese to each patty and let it melt.

Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers

Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun. Add your preferred condiments and optional toppings. If you’re looking for a double burger experience, simply stack two patties on one bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Oklahoma Smash Burgers

Oklahoma Smash Burgers are versatile and can be served in various ways to please everyone at your table. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your burger experience.

Classic Toppings

• Lettuce and Tomato: Fresh lettuce leaves and juicy tomato slices add crunch and flavor.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles complement the savory burger, enhancing the overall taste.
• Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings provide extra texture and a delicious onion flavor.

Unique Twists

• BBQ Sauce: A drizzle of BBQ sauce gives your burgers a smoky sweetness that pairs well with beef.
• Sriracha Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with Sriracha for a spicy kick that adds creaminess to each bite.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings richness and a healthy twist to your burger.

Party Style

• Slider Platter: Make mini versions of Oklahoma Smash Burgers for easy sharing at parties or gatherings.
• Burger Bar: Set up a DIY burger bar with various toppings and sauces, letting guests customize their burgers.

How to Perfect Oklahoma Smash Burgers

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Oklahoma Smash Burgers, consider these tips.

• Use High-Quality Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for a juicy patty with enough fat for flavor.
• Preheat Your Griddle: Ensure the griddle is hot before cooking to achieve crispy edges on the patties.
• Don’t Overwork the Meat: Keep the beef loosely packed before smashing; this helps maintain tenderness.
• Smash Quickly: Press down on the patty swiftly to create a good sear without losing moisture.
• Keep It Simple: Stick to classic seasonings like salt and pepper to let the beef flavor shine through.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow burgers to rest briefly after cooking for juices to redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Oklahoma Smash Burgers

Serving side dishes alongside your Oklahoma Smash Burgers can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some delicious options:

1. French Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with salt are a classic pairing that everyone loves.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy contrast to rich burgers.
3. Potato Chips: Serve with various flavors of potato chips for easy snacking alongside the meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet balance when paired with savory burgers, great when baked or fried.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is an excellent side dish that complements any barbecue feast.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and is perfect for summer meals.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide hearty comfort alongside your flavorful burgers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Oklahoma Smash Burgers can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overworking the meat: Forming the ground beef into tight patties can lead to tough burgers. Instead, keep the beef loose and simply form it into balls before cooking.

• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season your patties with salt, pepper, and garlic powder will result in bland burgers. Always season generously for maximum flavor.

• Using low-quality cheese: Using cheese that doesn’t melt well can ruin your burger experience. Opt for American cheese or another good melting cheese for that perfect gooey layer.

• Not letting the onions caramelize: If you rush the cooking of the onions, they won’t develop their sweet flavor. Cook them until they are golden brown for a delicious addition to your burgers.

• Neglecting bun preparation: Toasting your buns adds texture and prevents sogginess. Always toast them on the griddle before assembling your burgers.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Oklahoma Smash Burgers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep any toppings separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Oklahoma Smash Burgers

• Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Oklahoma Smash Burgers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a burger on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the burger and cover with a lid, heating for about 4-5 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Oklahoma Smash Burgers unique?

Oklahoma Smash Burgers are known for their thin, crispy patties that create a delightful crunch and are layered with caramelized onions and melted cheese.

Can I customize my Oklahoma Smash Burgers?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or even BBQ sauce to tailor them to your taste preferences.

How do I prevent my burgers from being dry?

To keep your Oklahoma Smash Burgers juicy, don’t overcook them and ensure you’re using ground beef with some fat content (80/20 is ideal).

What kind of buns work best?

For Oklahoma Smash Burgers, soft chicken hamburger buns are recommended as they complement the crispy patties perfectly while holding all the toppings well.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Oklahoma Smash Burgers are not just quick and delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize toppings and condiments to suit any craving. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a tasty meal that’s sure to impress!