Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 slices of American cheese
4 hamburger buns
Butter, for toasting the buns
Pickles, for serving (optional)
Mustard, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Onions:
Thinly slice the onion using a mandoline or a sharp knife. The slices should be very thin, almost translucent.

Form the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll each portion into a ball.
Place the balls of beef on a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap, then flatten them into thin patties using your hands or a burger press.
Cook the Onions and Patties:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s very hot.
Season the patties with salt and pepper on one side.
Place a small mound of sliced onions on the hot skillet, then immediately place a beef patty on top of the onions, seasoned side down. Use a spatula to press the beef patty down firmly so it adheres to the onions.
Season the top side of the patties with salt and pepper.
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are browned and the onions are caramelized.
Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over so that the onions are now on top.
Place a slice of American cheese on each patty and let it melt, about 1-2 minutes.
Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, butter the hamburger buns and toast them in a separate skillet or on the griddle until golden brown.

Assemble the Burgers:
Place each patty with onions and melted cheese on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
Add pickles and mustard, if desired.
Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve:
Serve the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot with your favorite sides.
Tips:
Thinly slicing the onions is key to getting the right texture and flavor. They should be almost paper-thin.
Pressing the beef into the onions helps the flavors meld together and ensures the onions stay attached to the patty.
Using a cast-iron skillet provides the best results for a nice, even sear and caramelization.
Enjoy your homemade Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers!