Flying Dutchman Burger Onion

The Flying Dutchman Burger layers rich juicy beef with gloriously caramelized onions instead of the usual bun. When I first tried this burger inspired by a classic secret menu favorite the combination of sweet onions tangy sauce and melty cheese instantly won me over. If you love burgers but want to skip the bread this is the one you cannot miss.

I first made this after a long summer day when I needed something satisfying but lighter than a regular burger. My family was skeptical about skipping the bun but now it is a regular request for laid back weekends.

Ingredients

• Large yellow onion: Essential for the buns Choose one that feels heavy with firm skin for sweetness and caramelizing
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin if you can for best flavor in the onions
• Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami in both onions and sauce Look for one with real anchovies
• Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning: Provides the spice and heat Seek out a fresh tin for maximum punch
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the onion’s natural flavor Opt for dark brown sugar for extra depth
• Eighty twenty ground beef: Gives a nice balance of juiciness and flavor Always choose freshly ground with even fat marbling
• American cheese: Melts perfectly for that classic burger finish Use deli sliced for best melt and texture
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the sauce Go for full fat for richness
• Relish: Bright tang and crunch Sweet relish works best here
• Dijon mustard: Offers a zesty sharp note Choose a true Dijon for the best kick
• Sugar: Small amount to round out the sauce Flavor is best with pure cane sugar
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Add concentrated savory notes Make sure your spices are fresh for brightest taste
• Smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smoky depth Try Spanish smoked paprika for real character
• Cayenne pepper: For heat Adjust to your liking

Instructions

Prepare the Onion Bun:

Carefully peel your yellow onion and slice it into four thick even rounds about half an inch each. Arrange on a board and drizzle with olive oil and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle over Creole seasoning and brown sugar then let those flavors soak in for at least five minutes. Heat a heavy skillet over medium low and lay the onion slices flat. Cook gently for about ten minutes per side without rushing turning only once. The goal is deep golden color and tender sweet texture

Make the Burger Patties:

Put your ground beef in a bowl and gently work in Creole seasoning using your hands to avoid over mixing. Divide into four equal balls. Press each ball firmly until you have even thin patties which will cook quickly and get a delicious crust

Cook the Patties:

Set your skillet or griddle over medium high and let it get nice and hot. Place the patties in the hot pan letting them sear for two or three minutes until the bottom develops a strong brown crust. Flip with a sturdy spatula and sear the other side making sure the edges get plenty of color. This step really locks in flavor

Add the Cheese:

While the second side of the patties cooks gently lay a slice of American cheese on each. Let it start to melt while the patties finish so you get that gooey blanket of cheese

Prepare the Sauce:

Grab a small bowl and whisk together mayonnaise relish Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce sugar garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika Creole seasoning and your chosen amount of cayenne. Whisk until silky smooth and taste to see if you want a little more heat

Assemble the Burgers:

Lay a caramelized onion round on your plate for the bottom bun. Add a cheesy beef patty and spoon over a generous helping of sauce. Top with another onion round as the upper bun. Repeat with remaining ingredients

Serve:

Serve immediately while hot and saucy. Offer extra sauce on the side for anyone who wants to dip for even more flavor

My favorite part of this recipe is the way the caramelized onions become both sweet and savory after their time in the pan. My kids love assembling their own burgers and it always turns into a fun hands on dinner that gets nods of approval all around

Storage Tips

Store leftover patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The onions keep well for up to two days but may soften further. Reheat the patties and onions in a hot pan for best texture. Do not assemble until ready to eat to prevent sogginess

Ingredient Substitutions

Swiss or cheddar cheese gives a different twist if you do not have American. If Creole seasoning is not in your pantry try a mix of paprika garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne. Turkey or chicken also work for a lighter patty but do not skip adding a little fat to the mix

Serving Suggestions

These burgers pair brilliantly with crisp pickles crunchy raw veggies or a fresh green salad. For a full meal their rich flavors mean you want light simple sides. They even work as a party appetizer cut into quarters and secured with toothpicks

Cultural History

The Flying Dutchman Burger has roots in popular West Coast fast food culture where it has become an underground legend for those seeking a gluten free protein packed option. Skip the bread but keep all the fun sauce cheese and structure of a true burger

Seasonal Adaptations

Use sweet Vadalia onions in spring and early summer for an even milder taste Try grilling the onions outdoors for summer barbecues for a hint of smokiness Add a slice of ripe tomato or crunchy lettuce between the onion buns when they are freshest

Success Stories

Many friends have asked for this recipe after just one bite obsessed with the sweet and savory power of the onions. It has become my go to for backyard parties where even diehard bread lovers come back for seconds. Making this as a freezer meal means I always have quick low carb burgers on hand for busy nights

Freezer Meal Conversion

Cook patties and caramelized onions as directed then cool completely. Freeze each component wrapped separately in layers of parchment then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet. Sauce keeps about a week in the fridge but is best fresh

Try this once and you may never want a regular burger bun again. The flavor and texture combination makes this burger truly unforgettable.

Recipe Q&A

→ What makes the Flying Dutchman Burger unique?

This burger swaps traditional buns for thick, caramelized onion rounds, delivering deep savory flavor and a low-carb twist.

→ How do I caramelize the onion buns perfectly?

Slowly cook thick onion slices in olive oil, Worcestershire, Creole seasoning, and a touch of sugar until golden and tender.

→ What type of beef should I use?

Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy, flavorful patty with a perfect crust after searing.

→ How is the special sauce made?

Mix mayonnaise, relish, Dijon, Worcestershire, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, and cayenne to taste.

→ Can I add different cheeses?

Yes, while American cheese melts smoothly, feel free to try cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for extra flavor.

→ Is this burger suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as it skips bread buns and relies on onions, it's naturally gluten-free—great for those avoiding wheat.