As the sizzle of patties fills the air, you know something special is coming. The Flying Dutchman Burger is not your average meal; with juicy beef patties cradled between luscious, caramelized onion slices, this recipe redefines what it means to enjoy a burger. Imagine indulging in a low-carb, gluten-free delight that’s packed with flavor—thanks to a touch of Creole seasoning and a zesty homemade sauce. It’s not only a quick 30-minute solution for busy weeknights but also a rich, satisfying treat that will make any burger lover swoon. Are you ready to elevate your burger game and impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering creation!

Why is this burger so unique?
Bold, Flavor-Packed Experience: The Flying Dutchman Burger transforms the classic burger with luscious caramelized onions, creating a rich flavor profile that’s truly unforgettable.
Low-Carb Wonder: Perfectly crafted for those on a low-carb or gluten-free diet, this recipe allows you to indulge without the guilt.
Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes to prepare, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings—much like my Butter Steak Bites.
Versatile Options: Customize your experience with different cheeses or sauces to match your taste and dietary needs. You might also enjoy trying variations like Potsticker Stir Fry for a fusion dinner night!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this burger is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Flying Dutchman Burger Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- Large Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet and savory cradle for the filling in your Flying Dutchman Burger. Ensure thick, half-inch slices are cut to maintain structural integrity.
- Olive Oil – Helps achieve a golden-brown color and enhances flavor during caramelization. Can use other oils with a high smoke point if desired.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth to the onions and beef; look for gluten-free versions if necessary.
For the Burger Patties
- Ground Beef (80/20) – Rich and juicy base for the burger; substitute with ground turkey or portobello mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Creole Seasoning – Provides a spicy, bold kick to the patties; feel free to use Cajun seasoning if Creole isn’t available.
- American Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a rich flavor; cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss can also work for varied flavor.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base that helps bind the sauce ingredients together; use vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
- Spices (Relish, Dijon Mustard, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Tony Chachere’s, Cayenne Pepper) – Layers complexity into the sauce, providing tanginess and heat; adjust cayenne for personal heat preferences.
With these tasty ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Flying Dutchman Burger that’s not only low-carb and gluten-free but also bursting with flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prep Onions
Begin by peeling and slicing the large yellow onion into thick half-inch rounds. In a bowl, toss the onion slices with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of Creole seasoning. This mixture will encourage caramelization and enhance the flavor of the onions as they cook, providing a succulent base for your Flying Dutchman Burger.
Step 2: Caramelize Onions
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the seasoned onion slices. Allow them to cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized and golden brown. This slow process will deepen the natural sweetness, crucial for balancing the savory elements of your Flying Dutchman Burger.
Step 3: Prepare Patties
While the onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and season it generously with Creole seasoning to infuse flavor. Divide the beef into four equal portions, then shape each into thin patties, making shallow indents in the center to prevent puffing during cooking. These beef patties will be the heart of your Flying Dutchman Burger.
Step 4: Cook Patties
Heat another skillet over high heat and add a touch of olive oil. Sear the beef patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and reach your desired level of doneness. In the last minute, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the skillet briefly to let the cheese melt perfectly, complementing your Flying Dutchman Burger.
Step 5: Make Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Tony Chachere’s seasoning, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the level of heat according to your preference. This zesty sauce will drape over the Flying Dutchman Burger beautifully, adding rich layers of flavor.
Step 6: Assemble Burgers
To assemble your Flying Dutchman Burger, take a caramelized onion round and place it on a plate. Top it with a juicy patty garnished with melted cheese. Drizzle the homemade sauce generously over the patty and then crown it with another thick slice of caramelized onion. This assembly will not only elevate flavors but also provide a delightful presentation.
Step 7: Serve
Your Flying Dutchman Burger is now complete! Serve immediately, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the savory goodness with some extra sauce on the side. This low-carb, gluten-free creation is bound to impress family and friends alike, making it a go-to option for any gathering or cozy dinner at home.

Expert Tips for Making the Flying Dutchman Burger
- Optimal Onion Preparation: Use large yellow onions cut into thick half-inch slices to ensure they maintain their structure while caramelizing.
- Slow and Steady Caramelization: Cook onions over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, to enhance their natural sweetness without burning.
- Perfect Patty Formation: Shape patties to about a quarter-inch thickness and make a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing while cooking.
- Heat Control for the Sauce: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the sauce based on your desired spiciness—you can also add jalapeño slices for an extra kick!
- Storing Leftovers: Keep cooked patties and caramelized onions separate in the fridge to maintain texture; reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to swap American cheese for cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss to change the flavor profile of your Flying Dutchman Burger.
How to Store and Freeze Flying Dutchman Burger
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; keep cooked patties and caramelized onions separate to maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties and caramelized onions individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm patties in a skillet over low heat for 3-4 minutes per side and reheat onions gently to avoid losing their flavor.
Assembly: It’s best to assemble the Flying Dutchman Burger fresh, just before serving, to ensure the onions remain crisp and the patties juicy.
What to Serve with Flying Dutchman Burger
Imagine hosting a cozy dinner where the savory aroma of your Flying Dutchman Burger fills the room, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a hearty meal.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture perfectly balance the savory burger and caramelized onions.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: This tender veggie adds a fresh, crunchy element that complements the rich flavors of the burger.
- Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy slaw provides a refreshing contrast, bringing brightness to each bite. Enjoy with the added benefit of crunch!
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful grilled veggies enhance your meal with a smoky flavor that pairs well with the Creole seasoning in the burger.
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food adds indulgence and richness to your meal, making it a fan favorite for family and friends.
- Chilled Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea cleanse the palate, enhancing every flavorful bite of the Flying Dutchman Burger.
- Cheesecake Bites: For dessert, these sweet treats offer a creamy, dreamy finish that’s sure to leave everyone smiling!
Serve any of these delightful sides to create a meal that feels like a warm embrace, making your Flying Dutchman Burger night truly special.
Make Ahead Options
These Flying Dutchman Burgers are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can caramelize the onions up to 3 days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavor and texture. Additionally, shape the burger patties in advance and keep them stored individually wrapped, ready to cook straight from the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the caramelized onions in a pan over low heat until warmed through, then cook your patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This way, you will enjoy delicious, homemade Flying Dutchman Burgers with minimal effort!
Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Flying Dutchman Burger and make it your own!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for grilled portobello mushrooms or black bean patties for a rich and earthy alternative. Your meat-free friends will love this indulgent twist!
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Cheese Swap: Try replacing American cheese with cheddar, pepper jack, or even Gouda for a different flavor profile. Each cheese adds its own delightful character, making every bite a new experience.
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Extra Heat: For those who love a kick, add sliced jalapeños to your burger assembly or increase the amount of cayenne in the sauce. Fire up the flavor and bring the heat!
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Bunless Delight: For a completely carb-free option, simply serve the patties topped with your favorite fixings on a bed of lettuce. It’s a fresh take that’s just as satisfying!
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Savory Sauce: Experiment with your sauce by adding ingredients like sriracha, chipotle adobo, or even a hint of honey for a sweet-spicy glaze. A little twist can make all the difference!
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Knockout Toppings: Layer your burger with crispy bacon, fried eggs, or avocado for a gourmet touch. These additions add rich flavors and textures that elevate your Flying Dutchman Burger to new heights!
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Classic Combo: Pair it with homemade sweet potato fries or a light salad for a complete meal. You might find that they complement the flavors beautifully, just like my Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls.
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Herb Infusion: Toss chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the ground beef before forming the patties. This lightens up the flavor and brings a fresh burst of taste!
With these variations, the possibilities are endless, so you can keep your burger game fresh and exciting!

Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe FAQs
What type of onions are best for caramelizing?
Absolutely! Large yellow onions are the star for this Flying Dutchman Burger. Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor and they caramelize beautifully when sliced into thick rounds. Make sure to cut them into half-inch slices to maintain their structure during cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store your leftover Flying Dutchman Burger in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the cooked patties and caramelized onions separate to preserve their textures. This way, you can enjoy them without compromising on taste!
Can I freeze the burger components?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap the cooked patties and caramelized onions individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently to maintain that deliciousness.
What if my onions aren’t caramelizing properly?
If your onions aren’t caramelizing, don’t fret! Make sure you’re cooking them over medium-low heat and turning them frequently. If they’re not browning after 15-20 minutes, increase the heat slightly but keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Adding a pinch of sugar can also help enhance the caramelization process, giving your Flying Dutchman Burger that sweet base.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Flying Dutchman Burger is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by substituting American cheese with vegan options. If cooking for someone with allergies, always check your seasonings and sauces to ensure they are appropriate for their dietary needs.

Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe: Low-Carb Bliss with Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and slicing the large yellow onion into thick half-inch rounds. Toss the onion slices with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of Creole seasoning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the seasoned onion slices. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- While the onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and season it generously with Creole seasoning. Divide into four portions and shape each into thin patties.
- Heat another skillet over high heat and add olive oil. Sear the beef patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, adding cheese on top in the last minute.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Tony Chachere's seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
- To assemble the burger, place a caramelized onion round on a plate, top with a patty and drizzle sauce over it, then crown with another onion layer.
- Serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side.

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