The Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves the pure, unadulterated flavor of a meaty burger without the usual bun and extras slowing things down. Imagine juicy, double-stacked beef patties kissed with just the right amount of seasoning, melted American cheese, and sweetly caramelized onions playing the starring role instead of bread. This classic take on a no-bun burger is perfect for those low-carb enthusiasts or anyone craving a rich, hearty experience where every bite bursts with savory satisfaction. Trust me, once you try this Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to comfort meals that’s surprisingly simple yet deeply indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe come to life, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients — no fuss, no complicated add-ons. Each element is carefully chosen to enhance the meat’s natural flavor, provide a beautiful balance of sweet and savory from the onions, and deliver that classic cheesy indulgence.
- 2 lb. Ground Beef (80% lean / 20% fat): The perfect fat ratio to keep your patties juicy and flavorful without drying out.
- 2 large onions (sliced into ¼”-½”): These bring sweetness and texture once caramelized to golden perfection.
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil: Helps caramelize the onions with just the right amount of richness.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a gentle depth of flavor to the beef without overpowering the natural meatiness.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of every ingredient.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Gives a subtle kick that brightens up the dish.
- 4 Slices American Cheese: Classic melty cheese that wraps your double patties in creamy goodness.
- Pinch Sugar: Just enough to coax out the natural sweetness of the onions during caramelization.
- Burger Sauce (optional): An extra touch of tang and creaminess if you want to elevate the final bite.
How to Make Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a cast iron skillet or griddle. Sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the sliced onions — this little sweet boost helps them caramelize beautifully. Place the onions in the skillet over medium heat and cook until each side is lightly caramelized, giving you that tender yet slightly crisp texture that balances the richness of the burger.
Step 2: Season the Ground Beef
While the onions take a rest on a cutting board, season your ground beef generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These simple spices are the foundation of a savory patty, enhancing the beef’s flavor without overshadowing it.
Step 3: Form and Cook the Patties
Add the seasoned beef to the hot skillet and press each patty down firmly so they’re thin and cook evenly. Cook the patties for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side, flip carefully, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This ensures a nice crust forms while the interior remains juicy.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Stack the Patties
Once patties are almost done, place a slice of American cheese on each one so it melts perfectly over the hot beef. Next, stack the patties two high to create that classic double-decker Flying Dutchman effect.
Step 5: Assemble with Onions
Take a whole caramelized onion ring and place your double-stacked patties on top, then finish with another whole onion ring on top. This bun-less “stack” serves as a unique, flavorful casing that sandwiches all the juicy goodness inside.
Step 6: Serve with Optional Sauce
If you like a bit of creaminess or tang, add your favorite burger sauce on the side or drizzled atop. It complements the meaty, cheesy patties and sweet onions masterfully.
How to Serve Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Keep garnishes simple to highlight the star ingredients. A few fresh pickle slices or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley can add brightness and contrast without distracting from the rich layers of meat and onions.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads to balance the richness, or some classic shoestring fries for crunch. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw also complement the savory flavor profile beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe on a bed of lettuce leaves or wrapped in iceberg lettuce for a light crunch. You can also stack them on skewers as mini sliders, making them perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that might be hard!), wrap the patties tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the caramelized onions separate to maintain their texture.
Freezing
These burgers freeze well. Stack the cooked patties with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water and covering briefly to keep them moist. Add fresh cheese slices during reheating to revive that melty charm. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry the meat out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe?
Absolutely! While American cheese is classic for its melting quality and mild flavor, feel free to switch it up with cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. Just choose cheeses that melt well.
Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet for this recipe?
A cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat evenly and can give the patties a nice sear, but you can definitely use a heavy-bottomed pan or griddle if that’s what you have on hand.
Why is the onion caramelization important in this recipe?
Caramelizing the onions transforms their sharpness into a sweet, rich flavor that perfectly contrasts and complements the savory beef and cheese. It’s a key component that makes this burger so flavorful without needing a bun.
Can I make this recipe keto or low-carb?
Yes! This recipe is essentially keto-friendly since it omits the bun. Just be sure to skip any sauces that contain sugar or carbs if you want to keep it strictly low-carb.
How do I ensure the patties don’t fall apart when pressed thin?
Use gently packed but not overly compressed beef when forming the patties. Overworking the meat can make the texture tough and cause crumbling. Pressing them firmly in the pan after placing them is the best way to get the thin shape while keeping them intact.
Final Thoughts
The Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe is such a beloved classic for good reason — it’s hearty, flavorful, and deceptively simple to whip up. Whether you’re cutting carbs, craving comfort food, or just want to enjoy a meat-and-cheese masterpiece, this recipe shines. Give it a try soon, and you might just find yourself craving it again and again!
Print
Flying Dutchman Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 double burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Flying Dutchman Burgers recipe features juicy double-layered burgers cooked to perfection with caramelized onions and melted American cheese. This classic stovetop method yields flavorful, thin patties that pair wonderfully with a simple burger sauce for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 lb. Ground Beef (80% lean / 20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Vegetables and Oil
- 2 large onions (sliced into ¼”-½”)
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Pinch Sugar
Cheese and Extras
- 4 Slices American Cheese
- Burger Sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Add olive oil to a cast iron skillet or griddle and warm it over medium heat to prepare for cooking the onions.
- Caramelize the Onions: Sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the whole sliced onions and place them in the skillet. Cook slowly over medium heat until each side becomes barely caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Rest the Onions: Remove the onion rings from the skillet and place them on a cutting board to rest while preparing the hamburgers.
- Season the Beef: Season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even distribution of the flavors.
- Form and Cook Patties: Add the hamburger mixture to the hot skillet. Firmly press the patties down to make them thin. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until browned.
- Flip Patties: Turn the patties over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until fully cooked.
- Add Cheese and Stack: Place a slice of American cheese on each patty, then stack one patty on top of the other to create double burgers.
- Assemble with Onions: Place the double patties on top of the first whole caramelized onion ring, then top with the next whole onion ring to create layers of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the assembled Flying Dutchman Burgers hot with burger sauce on the side, if desired, for extra taste.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet or griddle for best caramelization and searing.
- Pressing patties thin helps to achieve that classic Flying Dutchman style.
- The pinch of sugar in onions is key to balancing the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- American cheese melts well and adds a creamy texture between the layers.
- Optional burger sauce can be mayonnaise-based or your favorite condiment.
- Ensure not to overcook the patties to keep them juicy.
