Oklahoma-Style Onion Smash Burger
A regional classic where thinly sliced onions are smashed directly into beef patties for crispy, caramelized perfection.
The Oklahoma-Style Onion Smash Burger is a regional legend that takes the smash burger technique to new heights. Thinly sliced onions are pressed directly into the beef patty as it sizzles on a screaming-hot griddle, creating an irresistible combination of crispy, caramelized edges and sweet, tender onion throughout. This technique originated in El Reno, Oklahoma during the Great Depression when ground beef was scarce and onions helped stretch each patty.
What sets this burger apart is the unique cooking method where raw onions become one with the meat, developing deep caramelization on the griddle while staying juicy inside. The smash creates maximum surface area for that coveted crispy crust, while American cheese melts into every crevice. Simple yellow mustard and soft potato buns complete this nostalgic masterpiece.
Perfect for backyard cookouts or weeknight dinners, this burger delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients. The key is a very hot cooking surface and resisting the urge to flip too early—let those onions work their magic.