Hey guys! Craving the perfect diner-style burger? Then you absolutely have to try making Oklahoma Smash Burgers on your Blackstone griddle. Trust me, once you taste the crispy, caramelized patty with those deliciously steamed onions, you'll be hooked! This recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to impress. Let's get started!

What Makes Oklahoma Smash Burgers Special?

Oklahoma Smash Burgers, sometimes called onion burgers, originated during the Great Depression in El Reno, Oklahoma. The ingenious idea was to stretch the meat supply by pressing a thin layer of shaved onions directly into the patty as it cooks. This not only added flavor but also created a unique crispy texture as the onions caramelized against the hot griddle. The result? A super flavorful, juicy burger that's greater than the sum of its parts.

The magic of these burgers lies in the smashing technique. By pressing down hard on the burger as it cooks, you maximize the surface area that comes into contact with the hot griddle. This creates a beautiful, flavorful crust that's the hallmark of a great smash burger. Add to that the sweetness of the caramelized onions, the richness of the beef, and your favorite toppings, and you've got a burger that rivals anything you'd find in a restaurant.

Furthermore, the Blackstone griddle is ideal for making smash burgers. Its large, flat surface provides even heat distribution, allowing you to cook multiple burgers at once. The griddle's high heat capacity ensures that you get that perfect sear every time. Plus, the built-in grease management system makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just yourself, the Blackstone is the perfect tool for achieving smash burger perfection. So grab your spatula, fire up your griddle, and get ready to experience burger bliss!

Ingredients for Oklahoma Smash Burgers

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather our ingredients. Here's what you'll need for the ultimate Oklahoma Smash Burgers:

• Ground Beef: 80/20 blend is recommended for optimal flavor and juiciness. The fat content is crucial for that delicious crust and juicy interior. Avoid lean ground beef, as it will result in a dry and less flavorful burger.
• Yellow Onions: Thinly shaved or sliced. Yellow onions are the classic choice for Oklahoma Smash Burgers, as they caramelize beautifully and add a sweet, savory flavor. Make sure they are sliced thinly so they cook evenly and meld with the beef.
• Burger Buns: Potato buns, brioche buns, or your favorite burger buns. The bun is just as important as the patty! Choose a soft, slightly sweet bun that can stand up to the juicy burger without falling apart. Toasting the buns is highly recommended for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese: (Optional) American cheese, cheddar cheese, or your preferred cheese. While not strictly traditional, cheese adds a layer of richness and creaminess to the burger. American cheese is a classic choice for its meltability, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
• Pickles: Dill pickle chips or your favorite pickles. The acidity of the pickles cuts through the richness of the burger and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Mustard: Yellow mustard or your favorite mustard. A squirt of mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the onions and the savory beef.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key! Don't be afraid to be generous with the salt and pepper, as they enhance the natural flavors of the beef and onions.
• Oil or Butter: For the griddle. A little bit of oil or butter helps prevent the burgers from sticking to the griddle and promotes even browning.

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Oklahoma Smash Burgers on a Blackstone

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing Oklahoma Smash Burgers you've ever tasted:

1. Prepare the Onions: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil or a pat of butter. Spread the thinly shaved onions evenly across the griddle. Allow them to cook and caramelize, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown. This may take about 10-15 minutes, so be patient and let them develop their full flavor.
2. Form the Meatballs: While the onions are cooking, gently form the ground beef into loose meatballs, about 2-3 ounces each. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can result in a tough burger. The goal is to keep the meatballs light and airy so they smash easily.
3. Smash the Burgers: Place a meatball on top of the caramelized onions. Immediately smash it down hard with a sturdy spatula or burger press. The thinner the patty, the crispier it will be. Aim for a patty that's about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Season Generously: Season the smashed patty with salt and pepper. Don't be shy! The seasoning will help develop a flavorful crust.
5. Cook and Flip: Let the burger cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until a dark, crispy crust forms on the bottom. Use a metal spatula to carefully scrape the burger off the griddle and flip it over. If using cheese, add it to the patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
6. Toast the Buns: While the burgers are finishing up, toast the burger buns on the griddle until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy.
7. Assemble and Serve: Spread your favorite sauce on the toasted buns. Place the cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun, top with pickles and any other desired toppings, and finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Smash Burger

Want to take your Oklahoma Smash Burgers to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve burger perfection:

• Use High-Quality Beef: The quality of the ground beef makes a big difference in the final product. Opt for a blend with a good amount of fat (80/20 is ideal) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Don't Overwork the Meat: When forming the meatballs, handle the meat gently to avoid compacting it. Overworking the meat can result in a tough burger.
• Smash it Hard: The key to a great smash burger is to smash it as thin as possible. Use a sturdy spatula or burger press and apply firm, even pressure.
• Get a Good Sear: Allow the burger to cook undisturbed for several minutes to develop a dark, crispy crust. This is where all the flavor is!
• Don't Be Afraid of the Mess: Smash burgers can be a little messy, but that's part of the fun! Embrace the chaos and enjoy the process.
• Experiment with Toppings: While the classic Oklahoma Smash Burger is simple, feel free to experiment with different toppings to create your own signature burger. Bacon, avocado, caramelized onions, and various cheeses are all great additions.

Variations on the Oklahoma Smash Burger

Okay, so you've mastered the classic. Now, let's explore some fun and creative variations on the Oklahoma Smash Burger:

• Spicy Smash Burger: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for a spicy kick. Top with jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
• Garlic Parmesan Smash Burger: Mix minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese into the ground beef for a flavorful twist. Top with a creamy garlic aioli.
• BBQ Smash Burger: Brush the burgers with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking. Top with crispy fried onions and coleslaw.
• Mushroom Swiss Smash Burger: Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and garlic. Top the burgers with the sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
• Breakfast Smash Burger: Top the burger with a fried egg, bacon, and a slice of cheese for a delicious breakfast-inspired burger.

Serving Suggestions for Oklahoma Smash Burgers

What's a great burger without some awesome sides? Here are some serving suggestions to complete your Oklahoma Smash Burger feast:

• French Fries: A classic pairing! Crispy, golden fries are the perfect accompaniment to a juicy smash burger.
• Onion Rings: Another classic! The sweet and savory flavor of onion rings complements the richness of the burger.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side that cuts through the richness of the burger.
• Potato Salad: A creamy and flavorful side that's perfect for summer barbecues.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier and equally delicious alternative to regular fries.

Conclusion: Smash Burger Bliss Awaits!

There you have it! The ultimate guide to making Oklahoma Smash Burgers on your Blackstone griddle. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of practice, you can create restaurant-quality burgers that will impress your friends and family. So fire up your griddle, get smashing, and enjoy the deliciousness! These burgers are seriously addictive, and I guarantee they'll become a staple in your cooking routine. Happy grilling, guys!