Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe
Introduction
The Flying Dutchman Burger puts a creative twist on the classic sandwich by using caramelized onion slices as buns. Loaded with a flavorful Creole-seasoned beef patty and a tangy, smoky sauce, this burger is sure to impress your taste buds with every bite.

Ingredients
- 1 large yellow onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Tony Chachere’s (or your preferred Creole seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp brown sugar
- 12 oz 80/20 ground beef
- 1/2 tbsp Tony Chachere’s (or your preferred Creole seasoning)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp relish
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Tony Chachere’s
- Cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel the onion and slice it into four rounds about 1/2-inch thick. Drizzle each slice with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of Creole seasoning, and brown sugar.
- Step 2: Heat a pan over medium-low heat and slowly caramelize the onion slices for about 10 minutes on each side, until they are deeply browned and tender. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a bowl, season the ground beef with Creole seasoning. Divide into four equal portions, form into balls, then flatten into thin patties.
- Step 4: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and crusty.
- Step 5: Place a slice of American cheese on each patty near the end of cooking and allow it to melt.
- Step 6: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper to make the sauce.
- Step 7: Assemble each burger by placing one caramelized onion slice on a plate, topping it with a cheesy patty, adding a spoonful of sauce, and finishing with another onion slice as the top bun.
- Step 8: Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy your Flying Dutchman Burger!
Tips & Variations
- Use your favorite Creole seasoning if Tony Chachere’s is unavailable to maintain the dish’s bold flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- If you prefer a more traditional bun, serve these onion patties inside toasted burger buns instead.
- Caramelize onions slowly over low heat to develop sweetness without burning.
Storage
Store leftover patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat patties gently in a skillet or microwave, then reassemble with freshly caramelized onion slices if possible. For best texture, prepare caramelized onions fresh before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this burger?
Yes, American cheese melts nicely and has a mild flavor, but you can substitute with cheddar, pepper jack, or your preferred melting cheese for a different taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, since the “buns” are made from onion slices and no bread is used, this burger is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any condiments you use are free from gluten ingredients.
PrintFlying Dutchman Burger Recipe
The Flying Dutchman Burger is a flavorful twist on the classic burger, replacing traditional buns with thick caramelized onion slices. Juicy, seasoned beef patties topped with melted American cheese and a zesty, creamy sauce bring rich and smoky Creole-inspired flavors together for a unique and delicious burger experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Onion Buns
- 1 large yellow onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Tony Chachere’s (or your preferred Creole seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp brown sugar
Burger Patties
- 12 oz 80/20 ground beef
- 1/2 tbsp Tony Chachere’s (or your preferred Creole seasoning)
- 4 slices American cheese
Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp relish
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Tony Chachere’s
- Cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion Bun: Peel the large yellow onion and slice it into four 1/2-inch thick rounds. Drizzle each slice with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of Creole seasoning, and brown sugar. Place the slices in a pan over medium-low heat and slowly caramelize them for about 10 minutes on each side, until they are deeply browned and tender throughout. Set aside for assembly.
- Make the Burger Patties: In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with Creole seasoning. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and roll each into a ball. Smash each ball into thin patties. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, cooking them through and achieving a nice crust.
- Add Cheese: When the patties are nearly cooked, place a slice of American cheese over each patty. Allow the cheese to melt before removing the patties from the pan.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Tony Chachere’s seasoning, and cayenne pepper to your preferred spiciness. Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Burgers: Lay one caramelized onion slice on a plate, top it with a cheesy burger patty, then spoon some sauce on top. Finish by placing another caramelized onion slice on top as the ‘bun’. Repeat for each burger.
- Serve: Serve the Flying Dutchman Burgers immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy this flavorful, bunless burger creation.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of juiciness and flavor.
- Caramelizing the onion slowly over medium-low heat is key to tender, flavorful ‘buns’. Don’t rush this step.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce to your spice preference.
- This burger is bunless, making it low-carb and gluten-free friendly.
- Can be served with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.
Keywords: Flying Dutchman Burger, caramelized onion burger, bunless burger, Creole seasoning burger, cheesy beef burger, low carb burger, gluten free burger

