Description
Onion Ring Bun Burgers
Ingredients:
For the Onion Ring Buns:
2 large onions, sliced into thick rings
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
For the Burger Patties:
1 lb ground beef
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
4 slices of cheddar cheese
4 strips of crispy bacon
Instructions:
Prepare the Onion Ring Buns
Separate the onion slices into individual rings. Coat each ring in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a skillet and fry the onion rings until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Cook the Burger Patties
In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into patties.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
Assemble the Burgers
Place one crispy onion ring as the base. Add a slice of crispy bacon, then the burger patty with melted cheese. Top with another onion ring as the bun.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately and enjoy this unique twist on a burger!
Perfect for a fun and flavorful burger night!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Onions: Slice two large onions into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Gently separate the rounds into individual rings, keeping the large and medium-sized ones for buns. Reserve smaller rings for another use.
2. Create a Dredging Station: Set up three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs seasoned with salt and pepper in the third.
3. Bread the Rings: Dredge each onion ring in flour, shaking off excess. Dip fully into the egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumbs to coat completely. Place on a wire rack.
4. Fry the Buns: Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Fry rings in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Form & Cook Patties: Gently mix beef with seasonings and form into four patties slightly wider than your onion rings. Cook in a hot skillet or grill for 3-4 minutes per side. Add cheese to melt during the last minute.
6. Final Assembly: Place a large, sturdy onion ring on a plate. Layer with bacon, the cheesy patty, and top with a second onion ring. Secure with a long skewer if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers immediately with a side of seasoned waffle fries or a crisp coleslaw to cut through the richness. Offer an array of dipping sauces like smoky barbecue, chipotle mayo, or a classic burger sauce. For a complete meal, pair with a light, hoppy beer or a chilled citrus soda.
How-to Summary
Create crispy, breaded onion rings to use as buns. Cook seasoned beef patties and top with melted cheese. Assemble by stacking an onion ring, bacon, the patty, and a final onion ring on top for a handheld, flavor-packed burger experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the onion ring buns instead of frying? Yes. Arrange breaded rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray generously with oil, and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
What’s the best way to keep the burgers from falling apart? Use large, thick onion rings for stability. Let the fried rings drain well so they aren’t greasy. A long skewer inserted through the center is the most effective way to hold everything together.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, Swiss offers a nutty flavor, or American cheese provides ultimate meltiness.
How do I prevent the onion from sliding out of the breading? Ensure your onion rings are thoroughly dried before breading. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the egg-washed ring to create a strong adhesive layer.
Can I make components ahead of time? You can bread the onion rings and shape the patties ahead, storing them separately in the fridge for a few hours. Cook just before assembling for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid slicing onions too thin, as they won’t hold their structure as a bun. Do not overmix the beef, which makes patties tough. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the onion rings will be greasy and soggy. Finally, don’t overload the burger with extra wet toppings like tomatoes, which can compromise the crispy bun’s integrity.
Conclusion
The Onion Ring Bun Burger transforms a classic cookout staple into a memorable, interactive meal. By combining the savory crunch of homemade onion rings with a juicy, cheesy patty and bacon, you create a stunning centerpiece perfect for casual gatherings. Mastering the technique of the crispy ring “bun” opens up a world of creative burger possibilities. Embrace the mess and enjoy this deliciously fun twist on burger night.