Hey, burger lovers! Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Oklahoma Smash Burgers cooked to perfection on a Blackstone griddle? This recipe is your ticket to burger nirvana, combining simple ingredients with unbeatable flavor. Trust me, once you try these, you'll be hooked!

Why Oklahoma Smash Burgers?

So, what makes an Oklahoma Smash Burger so special? It's all about the technique, guys. Instead of forming a traditional patty, you take a ball of ground beef and smash it directly onto a hot griddle. This creates an amazing crust and maximizes the Maillard reaction—that magical browning that gives food its irresistible flavor. When you cook these burgers on a Blackstone griddle, you get a perfectly even cooking surface, ensuring every part of the patty gets that beautiful, crispy edge. The thinly pressed meat cooks super fast, resulting in a juicy, flavorful burger with crispy edges that are simply irresistible.

Oklahoma Smash Burgers stand out due to their simplicity and the incredible flavor that comes from the smashing technique. The thin patty cooks quickly, developing a rich, caramelized crust that's far superior to traditionally grilled burgers. When cooked on a Blackstone griddle, the even heat distribution ensures that every square inch of the patty achieves that perfect level of crispiness. Plus, the onions are smashed right into the meat, infusing every bite with sweet, savory goodness. This method not only enhances the burger's taste but also its texture, offering a delightful combination of crispy edges and a juicy center. This is an experience that traditional burgers just can't match!

These burgers are not just about taste; they're about the experience. Imagine standing around the Blackstone, the sizzle of the beef and onions filling the air, as you create these culinary masterpieces. It’s a fun, interactive way to cook that gets everyone involved. The Oklahoma Smash Burger is a celebration of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. It's a testament to how a few high-quality ingredients, when treated with care and precision, can result in a dish that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Give it a try, and you'll see why it's become a favorite for burger enthusiasts everywhere.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients. Keep it simple, keep it fresh!

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is perfect)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, American, or pepper jack work great)
• Dill pickle chips
• Yellow Mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter or oil for the griddle

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

The type of ground beef you select is crucial for achieving the perfect Oklahoma Smash Burger. An 80/20 blend, meaning 80% lean meat and 20% fat, is ideal because the fat content is essential for flavor and moisture. When the beef is smashed onto the hot Blackstone griddle, the fat renders and helps create that delicious, crispy crust we all crave. Leaner ground beef might result in a drier burger, lacking the rich, savory taste that makes these burgers so special. Don't skimp on the fat! It's what makes the burger juicy and flavorful.

Consider sourcing your ground beef from a local butcher for the best quality. Freshly ground beef will always offer a better taste and texture compared to pre-packaged options. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even grind your own beef at home using a meat grinder. Experiment with different cuts of beef to find your perfect blend. Chuck is a great base for grinding, known for its robust flavor and good fat content. Whatever you choose, make sure it's fresh and of the highest quality to ensure your Oklahoma Smash Burgers are a hit.

Also, remember to handle the ground beef properly. Keep it refrigerated until you're ready to cook and avoid over-mixing it. Over-mixing can lead to a tougher burger. Gently form the ground beef into loose balls, about 3-4 ounces each, and you're ready to smash them into deliciousness on the Blackstone griddle.

Selecting the Perfect Cheese

The cheese you choose for your Oklahoma Smash Burger can make a big difference in the overall flavor profile. Classic choices like cheddar and American cheese are popular for their meltability and creamy texture. Cheddar offers a sharper, more pronounced flavor, while American cheese provides a smooth, gooey melt that's hard to resist. For those who like a bit of heat, pepper jack is an excellent option, adding a spicy kick that complements the savory beef and sweet onions. Ultimately, the best cheese is the one you enjoy the most!

Consider experimenting with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Gruyere, with its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, can add a sophisticated touch. Provolone, known for its mild and slightly tangy taste, is another great choice. If you're feeling bold, try using a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor. A blend of cheddar and Gruyere, for example, can create a rich and satisfying burger experience.

Make sure the cheese is sliced thinly so it melts quickly and evenly over the hot patty on the Blackstone griddle. Adding the cheese just before the burger is done cooking allows it to melt perfectly without burning. You can even cover the burgers with a dome or lid to trap the heat and speed up the melting process. The key is to achieve that perfect balance of melted, gooey cheese that enhances the flavor of the burger without overpowering it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps for burger perfection.

1. Prep the Onions: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Spread a thin layer of butter or oil on the griddle surface. Place the sliced onions onto the griddle and cook until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Move the onions to one side of the griddle to keep them warm.
2. Smash the Burgers: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 3-4 ounces each). Form each portion into a loose ball. Place a ball of ground beef onto the hot griddle. Immediately smash it down with a sturdy spatula or burger press as thin as possible, about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner, the crispier!
3. Season and Cook: Season the smashed patty with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until a dark, crispy crust forms. The edges should be beautifully browned and slightly jagged.
4. Onion Integration: As the burger cooks, place a generous portion of the caramelized onions on top of the smashed patty. Use your spatula to press the onions into the meat, helping them adhere to the burger.
5. Flip and Cheese: Flip the burger and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add a slice of cheese on top of the onions, allowing it to melt. If you have a melting dome, use it to help the cheese melt faster.
6. Assemble: While the cheese is melting, toast the hamburger buns on the griddle for a warm, crispy touch. Spread your favorite sauce on the buns (mustard is classic!). Place the cheesy burger on the bottom bun, top with your favorite toppings like dill pickle chips, and finish with the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavor in every bite!

Pro Tips for Perfect Smashes

To really nail those Oklahoma Smash Burgers, here are a few extra tips:

• Use a Sturdy Spatula: A thin, flexible spatula won't cut it. You need a strong, wide spatula to get the smash just right.
• Preheat is Key: Make sure your Blackstone griddle is nice and hot before you start. This ensures you get that beautiful sear.
• Don't Overcrowd: Work in batches if needed. Overcrowding the griddle can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
• Press Hard: Don't be shy! Really press down on that burger to get it as thin as possible.

Mastering the Art of Caramelizing Onions

The onions are more than just a topping; they're an integral part of the Oklahoma Smash Burger experience. Achieving perfectly caramelized onions requires patience and a bit of technique. Start by slicing the onions thinly and evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Heat a thin layer of butter or oil on your Blackstone griddle over medium heat. The key is to cook the onions slowly, allowing their natural sugars to break down and caramelize without burning.

Stir the onions frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. As they cook, they'll start to soften and turn a golden-brown color. This process can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the heat and the type of onion. If the onions start to dry out, add a splash of water or beef broth to keep them moist. A pinch of salt can also help draw out moisture and enhance the caramelization process. The goal is to achieve onions that are sweet, tender, and deeply browned, adding a layer of flavor that perfectly complements the savory beef.

Once the onions are caramelized, move them to a cooler part of the Blackstone griddle or set them aside in a bowl to keep them warm until you're ready to assemble the burgers. Don't rush this step! Properly caramelized onions are worth the time and effort, elevating your Oklahoma Smash Burgers to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Variations and Add-ons

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations and add-ons to try:

• Spicy Smash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef for a little heat.
• Garlic Aioli: Spread a homemade garlic aioli on the buns for extra flavor.
• Bacon Bliss: Crumbled bacon never hurt anyone! Add some crispy bacon to your burger.
• Jalapeño Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for those who like it hot.

Elevating Your Burger with Gourmet Toppings

While the classic Oklahoma Smash Burger is delicious on its own, there's always room to experiment with gourmet toppings to elevate your burger game. Consider adding a smear of truffle aioli for a touch of luxury, or a dollop of fig jam for a sweet and savory twist. Caramelized balsamic onions can add a sophisticated flavor, while roasted red peppers bring a smoky sweetness. If you're a fan of cheese, try topping your burger with a creamy goat cheese or a tangy blue cheese for a more complex flavor profile.

Fresh herbs can also add a burst of flavor and freshness. A sprinkle of chopped chives, parsley, or cilantro can brighten up the burger and complement the other toppings. For a bit of crunch, consider adding some crispy fried onions or a handful of arugula. And don't forget about the sauces! Experiment with different combinations of mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, and hot sauce to find your perfect blend. A homemade sriracha mayo or a smoky chipotle aioli can add a unique and delicious twist to your Oklahoma Smash Burger.

Get creative and don't be afraid to try new things! The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings, so have fun and find what you like best. Whether you prefer classic flavors or more adventurous combinations, the right toppings can take your Oklahoma Smash Burger from good to amazing.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! Oklahoma Smash Burgers on the Blackstone griddle are a game-changer. They're simple, delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. Gather your ingredients, fire up that Blackstone, and get ready to smash your way to burger heaven. Enjoy, guys!