Easy Oklahoma Smash Burgers Recipe That Sizzles With Flavor

Burger enthusiasts rejoice as the Oklahoma smash burgers recipe delivers a mouthwatering culinary experience that transforms ordinary ground beef into a crispy, flavor-packed delight.

These legendary patties pack an incredible punch of taste and texture with their signature thin, caramelized edges.

Searing hot cast-iron skillets create the perfect canvas for these irresistible burgers.

Each smashed patty develops a delectable golden-brown crust that seals in rich, savory flavors.

The technique is surprisingly simple yet produces restaurant-quality results that will impress even the most discerning burger lovers.

Minimal ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe a weeknight dinner superstar.

You’ll want to fire up the skillet and savor every delicious bite of these Oklahoma-style burger sensations.

Oklahoma Smash Burgers Done Quick & Juicy

  • This Oklahoma Smash Burger recipe transforms basic ingredients into a mouthwatering meal with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Enjoy the flexibility of adding personal favorite toppings, making each burger a unique culinary adventure that suits individual tastes.
  • Prepare these delectable burgers in just a few minutes, perfect for satisfying sudden hunger pangs or feeding a hungry crowd quickly.
  • The smash technique creates crispy, caramelized edges that lock in flavor, delivering restaurant-quality burgers right in your own kitchen.

Smash Burger Ingredients For That OK Flavor

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: Fresh beef that creates the juicy and flavorful core of the Oklahoma Smash Burger.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic spices that enhance the natural flavor of the beef and provide a robust taste profile.
Burger Enhancers:
  • Sliced Onions: Caramelized onions that add sweetness and create a delicious base for the burger patty.
  • Cheese Slice: Melty cheese that adds creamy richness to the burger.
Bread Base:
  • Burger Buns: Soft, toasted bread that serves as the foundation for holding the delicious burger components.
Additional Optional Toppings:
  • Condiments: Various sauces and toppings that can personalize the burger's flavor and texture.

Burger Tools For Smash Success

  • Griddle or Large Skillet: Essential for creating that perfect crispy burger crust and caramelizing onions.
  • Sturdy Spatula: Heavy-duty tool needed to smash beef patties and flip them with precision.
  • Tongs: Helpful for handling and moving meat and onions on the cooking surface.
  • Knife: For slicing onions into thin, even pieces.
  • Measuring Spoons: To measure seasonings like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder accurately.
  • Cutting Board: Surface for prepping onions and handling ground beef.

How To Smash Your Way To Juicy Burgers

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Heat your griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.

Lightly spray the surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Toast Bun Bases

Place burger buns cut-side down on the heated surface.

Toast until golden brown and slightly crispy, then set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Beef Portions

  • Ground beef

Gently separate the ground beef into loose balls, about 2-3 ounces each.

Keep the meat loose and fluffy, avoiding tight packing.

Step 4: Create Flavorful Base

Scatter thinly sliced onions directly onto the hot cooking surface.

Position a beef ball right on top of the onion layer.

Step 5: Smash and Season

Use a sturdy metal spatula to press down firmly on each beef ball.

Smash until the patty is paper-thin and edges are crispy.

Sprinkle with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder

Step 6: Develop Crispy Edges

Cook each patty for 2-3 minutes until edges become dark and crispy.

Quickly flip and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Place a slice of cheese on each hot patty.

Allow cheese to melt completely while patty finishes cooking.

Step 8: Build Delicious Burgers

Place smashed patties on toasted bun bases.

Add your favorite condiments like:
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise
  • Pickles
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato slices

Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, flavor-packed Oklahoma Smash Burger!

Pro Tips For Crispy Oklahoma Smash Burgers

  • Use a cast-iron griddle or flat skillet for the best crispy edges and maximum flavor development.
  • Choose ground chuck with 80/20 fat content for juicy, flavorful burgers that won't dry out during cooking.
  • Loosely form beef balls without compressing to ensure tender, crispy-edged smash burgers with maximum texture.
  • Sprinkle seasonings directly onto the meat while cooking to create a delicious flavor crust that locks in moisture.
  • Cover patties with a metal bowl or lid for 30 seconds to help cheese melt perfectly and create a steamy, melty finish.

Smash Burger Toppings & Twists

  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Burgers: Swap traditional buns for crisp lettuce leaves, creating a lighter, carb-free alternative perfect for keto dieters.
  • Turkey Burger Variation: Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey for a healthier protein option with reduced fat content.
  • Vegetarian Portobello Burger: Substitute beef patties with grilled portobello mushroom caps, maintaining the smash technique and seasoning for a robust vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or alternative wraps like large butter lettuce leaves to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals while preserving the original smash burger technique.

Plating Oklahoma Smash Burgers For A Crowd

  • Flavor Fusion Platter: Create a colorful platter with various dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy chipotle mayo, and tangy barbecue sauce to enhance burger experience.
  • Sidekick Companions: Pair burgers with crispy seasoned french fries, crunchy coleslaw, or zesty pickle spears for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
  • Burger Bar Bash: Set up a topping station with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, caramelized onions, and different cheeses so guests can customize their smash burgers.
  • Drink Pairing Magic: Complement the rich burger flavors with cold craft beer, classic root beer, or refreshing iced tea to balance the savory meat's intensity.

Storage Solutions For Leftover Smash Burgers

  • Store leftover burgers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Wrap individual burgers in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen burgers maintain quality for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Preheat to 350°F. Place burgers on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add cheese during the last 2 minutes for melty goodness.
  • Place burger on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature. Use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and maintain texture.

FAQs

  • What makes Oklahoma Smash Burgers different from regular burgers?

The key difference is the smashing technique, which creates crispy, caramelized edges by pressing the beef directly onto hot onions, resulting in a more flavorful and textured patty compared to traditional burger-making methods.

  • Can I use a different type of meat for smash burgers?

While ground beef is traditional, you can experiment with ground chuck or ground sirloin. Just ensure the meat has enough fat content (around 20%) to create those delicious crispy edges and maintain juiciness.

  • Do I need a special griddle to make smash burgers?

No, you can use a cast-iron skillet or a flat-top griddle. The most important factor is having a very hot cooking surface that allows the meat to develop a crispy, caramelized crust when smashed.

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Quick and Delicious Oklahoma Smash Burgers Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Juicy oklahoma smash burgers deliver classic american diner flavor with crispy edges and rich beef taste. Melted cheese, caramelized onions, and golden griddle marks complete this irresistible burger experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 4 slices american cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices

Seasonings and Bread:

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Condiments of choice (mustard, ketchup, pickles, etc.)

Instructions

  1. Preheat griddle to medium-high heat, coating surface with nonstick spray. Lightly toast buns until golden and set aside.
  2. Gently separate ground beef into 4 loose portions without compressing, keeping meat at room temperature.
  3. Scatter thin onion slices directly onto hot griddle surface. Position beef ball atop onion layer.
  4. Using heavy spatula, forcefully press beef into onions, creating ultra-thin 1/4 inch patties. Generously season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  5. Cook patties for 2-3 minutes until crispy edges develop. Rapidly flip and cook opposite side for additional minute. Immediately place cheese slice on each patty, allowing quick melting.
  6. Transfer seared patties onto toasted bun bases. Layer with desired condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise. Add optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles. For double burger option, stack two patties on single bun. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Choose high-fat ground beef like 80/20 chuck for juicier, more flavorful smash burgers that develop a crispy, caramelized exterior.
  • Use a flat metal spatula with a sharp edge to achieve the perfect smash technique, ensuring maximum surface contact with the griddle for optimal browning.
  • Keep meat portions loosely packed to maintain a tender texture, preventing overworking which can make burgers tough and dense.
  • Toast buns directly on the griddle for extra flavor and crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the crispy beef patty.
  • For gluten-free options, swap regular buns with lettuce wraps or gluten-free burger buns without compromising taste and texture.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese to elevate the burger’s flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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