Kenji Makes Oklahoma Onion Burgers | NYT Cooking

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: American cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

burger buns

🥗Healthier: whole wheat buns

💰Cheaper: white bread

Whole wheat buns provide more fiber.

Divide the ground beef into about four even patties, kneading them slightly for cohesion.

Flatten the patties to about 3 inches in diameter.

Season one side of the patties with salt and black pepper.

Slice the onions very thinly using a mandolin or knife just before using them.

Place a big pile of sliced onions on top of each patty, aiming for a loose haystack.

Heat a cast iron pan over high heat without adding oil.

Place the seasoned side of the patty down in the hot pan, pushing down to ensure they stay wide and thin around the edges.

Tuck any onions that fall off back onto the patties as they cook.

Let the first side sear without moving the patties for a few minutes.

Season the onions with salt after flipping the patties to avoid drawing moisture out before cooking.

Flip the patties carefully using a spatula, ensuring to get a good crust and lift any stuck bits from the pan.

Cook until the onions caramelize and crisp up, and the patties are cooked through.

Add a slice of American cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens