YT Recipe

the FRIED ONION SMASH BURGER (Oklahoma Onion Burger)

the FRIED ONION SMASH BURGER (Oklahoma Onion Burger) is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 550 calories per serving. Recipe by NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 7 min | Total: 22 min

Cost: $4.10 total, $2.05 per serving

Ingredients

  • 6 oz Ground Beef (80/20) (Form into two 3‑ounce balls; 80% lean, 20% fat for juiciness)
  • 1 medium Onion (Thinly sliced (as thin as possible) and lightly salted)
  • 1 tsp Salt (Season beef and onions)
  • 2 pieces Hamburger Buns (Soft buns, toasted cut side down)
  • 2 slices Cheese Slice (American or cheddar, melts over patty)
  • 4 slices Pickles (Optional topping for crunch)
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup (Optional condiment)
  • 2 tbsp Special Sauce (Store‑bought or homemade mayo‑ketchup‑relish blend)
  • 1 tsp Vegetable Oil (Light coating for the skillet if needed)

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions

    Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice the onion as thinly as possible, aiming for paper‑thin rings.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Season the onions

    Place the sliced onions in a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and toss to coat.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Form beef balls

    Divide the ground beef into two equal portions and gently shape each into a 3‑ounce (≈85 g) ball.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Preheat the skillet

    Place the cast iron skillet over high heat and let it become scorching hot, about 2 minutes.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: high

  5. Toast the buns

    Add a thin layer of oil to the skillet, then place the buns cut side down and toast until golden, about 30 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: high

  6. Remove and set aside buns

    Transfer the toasted buns to a plate and keep warm.

    Time: PT0M

  7. Smash the first patty

    Place one beef ball in the hot skillet, then immediately press down with the metal spatula until the patty is about 1/4‑inch thick.

    Time: PT30S

    Temperature: high

  8. Season the patty

    Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the smashed patty.

    Time: PT10S

  9. Cook the first side

    Let the patty cook undisturbed until a deep brown crust forms, about 2 minutes.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: high

  10. Flip and add cheese

    Flip the patty, place a slice of cheese on top, and cook another 1 minute until the cheese melts.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: high

  11. Assemble the burger

    On the bottom bun, place the cheesy patty, then top with the salted onion rings, pickles, and ketchup or special sauce. Place the toasted top bun on top; the residual heat will steam it slightly.

    Time: PT1M

  12. Serve

    Serve the burger immediately while hot and juicy.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
550
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
40 g
Fat
30 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Gluten, Dairy

Last updated: April 19, 2026

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the FRIED ONION SMASH BURGER (Oklahoma Onion Burger)

Recipe by NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites

A juicy 80/20 beef smash burger topped with ultra‑thin fried onions, melted cheese, and your choice of pickles, ketchup or special sauce. The buns are toasted in a scorching cast‑iron skillet for a perfect crunch, and the patty is smashed thin to develop a caramelized crust in minutes.

EasyAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
12m
Prep
4m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
26m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.10
Total cost
$2.05
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • • Preheat the cast iron skillet until it is scorching hot.
  • • Smash the beef ball quickly to create a thin patty.
  • • Allow the first side to develop a deep crust before flipping.
  • • Add cheese at the right moment to melt without overcooking.

Safety Warnings

  • • The skillet will be extremely hot; use a mitt or towel when handling.
  • • Pressing the patty with a metal spatula can cause splatter—keep hands clear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the smash burger in American cuisine?

A

The smash burger originated in the United States in the early 2000s, popularized by fast‑casual chains that prized a quick, caramelized crust and juicy interior. It reflects American fast‑food innovation, emphasizing speed, flavor, and the use of high‑heat cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of onion smash burgers in the United States?

A

In the Midwest, the smash burger is often topped with simple pickles and mustard, while West Coast versions may add avocado or specialty sauces. Southern twists include adding bacon or a fried egg, and some New England spots serve it with cheese curds.

cultural
Q

How is a smash burger traditionally served in American diners?

A

Traditionally, a smash burger is served on a soft, toasted bun with a single slice of American cheese, pickles, and a squirt of ketchup or mustard. The focus is on the crisp crust and juicy patty rather than elaborate toppings.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the fried onion smash burger associated with in American culture?

A

The smash burger is a popular choice for casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, and game‑day meals. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for weekend cook‑outs and informal celebrations.

cultural
Q

What makes the fried onion smash burger special compared to a regular cheeseburger?

A

The key differences are the ultra‑thin patty that’s smashed on a scorching skillet for a caramelized crust, and the addition of very thin, lightly fried onions that add sweet crunch. This technique creates a contrast of textures not found in a standard cheeseburger.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the fried onion smash burger at home?

A

Common errors include using a cold pan (no crust forms), pressing the patty too early or too lightly, overcooking the onions until they burn, and adding sauce before toasting the bun, which makes it soggy.

technical
Q

Why does this fried onion smash burger recipe use a cast‑iron skillet instead of a non‑stick pan?

A

A cast‑iron skillet retains and distributes heat exceptionally well, reaching the high temperature needed for a rapid sear and crust. Non‑stick pans often cannot sustain that heat without damaging the coating.

technical
Q

Can I make the fried onion smash burger ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can form the beef balls and slice the onions up to a day ahead; keep them refrigerated. Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days, and reheat briefly in a hot skillet before assembling.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the patty is done cooking?

A

The patty should have a deep, dark brown crust on the bottom, be about 1/4‑inch thick, and feel firm to the touch. After flipping, the interior should be pink‑juicy, and the cheese should be fully melted.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites focuses on quick, approachable recipes for everyday home cooks, often highlighting classic comfort foods with a modern, efficient twist.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites emphasizes minimal equipment, high‑heat techniques, and step‑by‑step visual cues that make even classic dishes like the smash burger feel fast and fool‑proof, whereas many channels spend more time on elaborate plating or specialty tools.

channel
More like this:American RecipesMain Course RecipesMore by NOT ANOTHER COOKING SHOW bites

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