Get ready to fall in love with the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman—a bold, bunless burger masterpiece where gooey cheese, juicy double patties, and buttery caramelized onions all come together in one unforgettable, no-carb bite! This recipe takes a classic favorite and transforms it into pure comfort food bliss with just the right punch of flavor and nostalgia.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bun-Free & Low-Carb: You won’t miss the bun—cheesy caramelized onions give all the satisfaction with none of the carbs!
- Melty Cheese Heaven: Four whole slices of American cheese create a savory blanket in every bite.
- Customization Galore: From the special sauce to the patty seasoning and cheese, every layer is easy to tailor to your taste.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Make this iconic Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman in your own kitchen—no drive-thru required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is how simple, everyday ingredients can turn into something crave-worthy. Each component plays a starring role: tender beef, sweet and savory onions, creamy special sauce, and melty cheese—all working in perfect harmony.
- 80/20 Ground Beef: Choose ground beef with a bit of fat (80/20) for juicy, flavorful patties that stay moist on the griddle.
- Yellow Onion: Sliced into thick rounds—these are your “buns” and caramelize to sweet, golden perfection.
- American Cheese Slices: The classic melter for that oozy, creamy finish—feel free to use your favorite brand!
- Mayonnaise, Ketchup, and Pickle Relish: The trifecta for a tangy, creamy, and satisfyingly zippy burger spread.
- White Vinegar & Sugar: A hint of brightness and sweetness to balance the spread and onions.
- Butter & Vegetable Oil: Butter adds richness and color, while oil keeps things from sticking and aids in caramelization.
- Yellow Mustard: Classic on the burger and as an optional ingredient for a slight tang and brightness—plus, it helps develop a flavorful crust.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to amplify the natural flavors of the beef and onions.
Variations
The beauty of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is just how easy it is to make it your own! With a few tweaks, you can tailor this recipe for different diets, taste buds, or whatever’s in your fridge right now.
- Swap the Cheese: Try sharp cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack in place of American cheese for a fun flavor twist.
- Add Pickles or Jalapeños: Tuck thin slices between the patties for extra crunch and zing—or a little spicy kick!
- Make it Turkey or Veggie: Swap in ground turkey or your favorite plant-based burger for a lighter (or vegetarian) meal.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cheese slices and mayo to keep things creamy and delicious for everyone at the table.
How to Make Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman
Step 1: Make the Special Spread
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, pickle relish, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and an optional squirt of yellow mustard in a small bowl. This creamy, tangy spread is the unsung hero that brings everything together and adds that quintessential “secret sauce” flavor you know and love. Set aside for the flavors to mingle while you tackle the rest of the recipe.
Step 2: Shape and Season the Patties
Divide the ground beef into eight small balls (about 3 to 4 ounces each), then gently flatten them into round, thin patties. Avoid over-handling so they stay tender! Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then set them aside—you’ll thank yourself for the little bit of prep when that glorious crust forms in the pan.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onion Buns
In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, add a swirl of oil followed by the onion rings arranged as flat as possible. Sprinkle lightly with salt and just a dash of sugar. Cook until deep golden and sticky on one side, then flip carefully and repeat. Right before they’re finished, drape a slice of cheese over half of the onions so they melt into their sweet bed. These caramelized onions aren’t just a bun substitute—they’re the star of your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman!
Step 4: Fry the Patties & Add Cheese
Add butter and oil to a hot skillet or grill pan. Place patties down and, if you’re feeling extra, spread a teaspoon of yellow mustard onto the uncooked side before flipping. Cook till a golden, crisp crust forms (about 2-3 minutes per side). Top half your patties with a slice of American cheese and stack with a plain patty to build those double burgers.
Step 5: Assemble the Burger
To build your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman, set a cheesy caramelized onion “bun” on the bottom, nestle your double cheeseburger stack on top, slather on that special spread, and crown it with another cheesy onion round. Serve hot—no bun required, just plenty of napkins!
Pro Tips for Making Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman
- Onion Caramelization: Don’t rush—keep the heat medium-low and let onions slowly develop their sweet, golden color for the most irresistible “bun.”
- Mustard-Crust Magic: Adding mustard to the patties before flipping creates a tangy, crispy crust that levels up each bite.
- Patty Texture: Avoid overmixing the beef; gently shaping ensures the juiciest, most tender patties.
- Cheese Timing: Add the cheese just before the onions and burgers are done to ensure perfect, melty coverage without overcooking.
How to Serve Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman
Garnishes
Freshly chopped chives or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds are fantastic on top, and a handful of sliced pickles on the side brings a welcome tang. If you’re feeling spicy, a dash of hot sauce or extra mustard is always a winner for your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman!
Side Dishes
Keep things classic with a side of golden shoestring fries or crispy tater tots, or lighten things up with a tangy coleslaw or simple mixed greens salad. Onion rings double-down deliciously on the onion theme!
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking each burger extra-high and serving on parchment squares with steak knives for a knife-and-fork experience, or slice into quarters for irresistible party sliders on a platter. Mini toothpicks or little flags add a whimsical, party-ready vibe for your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman feast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftover Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman fresh, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days—although you may find they disappear much faster!
Freezing
For best results, freeze fully cooked beef patties and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling; cheese melts best when added fresh during reheating for that ooey-gooey finish.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual burgers onto a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through. Add an extra slice of cheese over the top before heating for a fresh-melted touch!
FAQs
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Can I make the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the special spread and caramelize the onions up to a day in advance. For best texture, cook and assemble the burgers just before serving so everything is hot and melty.
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What’s the best way to get onions perfectly caramelized?
The secret is patience and medium-low heat! Give your onions enough time to slowly soften and turn golden brown, resisting the urge to stir too often. The sprinkle of sugar helps speed up caramelization and boosts sweetness.
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Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! While American cheese gives that classic creamy melt, feel free to swap in cheddar, Swiss, or provolone based on your preferences. Just make sure it’s a melty variety for maximum deliciousness.
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Is the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your condiments and cheese are certified gluten-free, this recipe contains no wheat or bread, making it a fantastic option for gluten-free eaters—or anyone looking to cut down on carbs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and truly comforting, you have to give the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman a go. It’s equal parts fun and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight treat or an impressive party main. Grab your onions and fire up the skillet—this is a burger experience you won’t forget!
Print
Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 2 burgers 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these decadent Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman burgers. A juicy beef patty nestled between caramelized onion ‘buns,’ topped with a creamy spread, these burgers are a flavor explosion!
Ingredients
SPREAD
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons pickle relish, drained
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional)
PATTIES
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, split in half
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Yellow mustard, for frying
- 2 American cheese slices
CARAMELIZED ONIONS
- 1 large yellow onion, cut into circular slices
- Salt, to taste
- White sugar, to taste
- Vegetable oil
- 2 American cheese slices
Instructions
- MAKE THE SPREAD: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, relish, ketchup, sugar, and vinegar. Set aside.
- PREPARE THE PATTIES: Gently shape ground beef into patties, season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- MAKE CARAMELIZED ONION BUNS: Cook onions with sugar and salt until caramelized. Add cheese to half the onions.
- COOK AND ASSEMBLE THE BURGER: Cook patties, add cheese, then stack with caramelized onions to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: Approx. 750 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 8g
- Sodium: Approx. 900mg
- Fat: Approx. 55g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 30g
- Trans Fat: Approx. 2g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 15g
- Fiber: Approx. 2g
- Protein: Approx. 40g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 150mg
