Go Back
Handheld photo of a single Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger showing thin crispy beef patties and translucent onions.

Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Lacy Edges

Master the Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger with this authentic recipe featuring paper-thin caramelized onions, lacy charred beef edges, and melted American cheese on a toasted brioche bun. A Depression-era classic perfected for your home kitchen.
Print Recipe Save Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Burger Ingredients
  • 1 lb 80/20 Ground Chuck 454g, divided into 4 balls
  • 1 large White Onion approx. 200g, shaved paper-thin
  • 4 slices American Cheese
  • 4 Brioche Buns toasted
  • 12 slices Dill Pickles
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle
  • 1 Mandoline slicer For paper-thin onions
  • 1 Heavy Duty Spatula For smashing

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Using a mandoline, shave the white onion into paper-thin, translucent slices. Portion the beef into four loose balls.
Cooking
  1. Place beef balls on a preheated 400°F (204°C) griddle. Top with a pile of onions and smash until ultra-thin with a heavy spatula.
  2. Season with salt and pepper. Flip after 2 minutes once lacy edges form. Add cheese and stack buns on top to steam.

Notes

Use a high-heat oil like avocado or canola if your pan isn't perfectly seasoned.
The thinner the onions, the better they will integrate into the meat.