The Flying Dutchman Burger is a masterpiece for anyone who loves burgers but wants to skip the traditional bun. It’s the ultimate indulgence—juicy beef patties layered with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and optional sauce, forming a melt-in-your-mouth burger stack that’s pure umami perfection. Originally popularized by In-N-Out Burger, this bunless creation has taken on a life of its own among home cooks and keto enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re trying to cut carbs or simply craving something uniquely satisfying, this Flying Dutchman Burger delivers everything you love about a classic cheeseburger, minus the bread—and with double the flavor.
Preparation Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 2
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Calories per serving: Approximately 650 kcal
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend) — for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Caramelized Onions:
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2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into thick rings
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Pinch of salt
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1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, enhances caramelization)
For the Cheese:
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4 slices American cheese or Swiss cheese (you can also mix for extra flavor)
Optional Burger Sauce:
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon mustard
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1 teaspoon pickle relish
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Dash of smoked paprika
Optional Add-ons:
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Pickles
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Tomato slices
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Lettuce leaves
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Avocado slices or bacon for extra richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
The caramelized onions are the secret weapon of this burger—they bring sweetness, depth, and richness that pair perfectly with the salty, cheesy beef.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil.
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Once melted, add the sliced onions in a single layer. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
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Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and soft.
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For deeper color and flavor, add a teaspoon of brown sugar halfway through cooking.
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Remove from the skillet and set aside while you prepare the burgers.
Step 2: Form the Patties
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
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Mix gently until combined—avoid overworking the meat to prevent dense patties.
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Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into round patties, about 4 inches wide. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
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Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
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Once hot, add the patties. Let them sear undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes on one side.
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Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium doneness, or adjust based on preference.
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Just before the patties finish cooking, place a slice of cheese over each one. Cover the pan for 30 seconds to melt the cheese beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Flying Dutchman
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Start with one cheesy patty on the bottom.
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Add a layer of caramelized onions on top.
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Stack another cheesy patty over the onions.
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Finish with more onions and, if you like, drizzle a little sauce.
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Serve the burger as-is or on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Flying Dutchman burger immediately while it’s still hot and gooey. Serve with crispy fries, a salad, or roasted vegetables on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Flying Dutchman Burger
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Use High-Quality Ground Beef:
Choose 80/20 ground chuck for a juicy, flavorful burger. Leaner meat tends to dry out. -
Do Not Press the Patties:
Pressing releases the juices, leaving you with a drier burger. Let them cook undisturbed for the perfect sear. -
Caramelize Slowly:
Don’t rush the onions. Low and slow is the key to rich, sweet caramelization. -
Customize the Cheese:
American cheese gives that classic melty texture, but Swiss or provolone can elevate the flavor. -
Add Texture:
For a bit of crunch, top with crispy bacon or fried onions before stacking. -
Sauce Wisely:
The burger is already rich, so a small drizzle of sauce goes a long way. -
Make It Keto-Friendly:
Use sugar-free ketchup in the sauce, skip the brown sugar in the onions, and serve on lettuce.
Flavor Variations
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Smoky BBQ Dutchman: Add BBQ sauce and smoked cheddar cheese.
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Mushroom Swiss Dutchman: Sauté mushrooms with butter and thyme, and use Swiss cheese.
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Spicy Jalapeño Dutchman: Add pepper jack cheese and pickled jalapeños for heat.
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Garlic Aioli Dutchman: Swap sauce for homemade garlic mayo.
How to Serve
The Flying Dutchman is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
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Crispy sweet potato fries
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Coleslaw
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Grilled vegetables
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Pickles or jalapeños for acidity
Serve it on a hot plate or in a bowl to catch all that melted cheese and onion goodness.
Storage and Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
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Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 30 seconds. The cheese will melt back into its creamy texture.
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Freezing: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Fat | 48 g |
| Saturated Fat | 22 g |
| Cholesterol | 160 mg |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Low-carb and gluten-free yet full of classic burger flavor
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Juicy, cheesy, and indulgent without the heaviness of a bun
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Perfect for keto, carnivore, or high-protein diets
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Completely customizable with your favorite toppings
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Cooks quickly with minimal prep
Step-by-Step Summary
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Caramelize onions until soft and golden.
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Form beef patties with simple seasoning.
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Cook and melt cheese over each patty.
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Layer patties and onions for a melty, stacked effect.
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Add optional sauce and serve hot.
This simple yet gourmet creation turns an ordinary burger night into something extraordinary.
The Story Behind the Flying Dutchman Burger
The Flying Dutchman originated at the legendary In-N-Out Burger, part of their “secret menu.” The name comes from its simplicity: two beef patties and two slices of cheese, “flying” without a bun. The concept spread quickly among burger enthusiasts who loved its rich, bunless design.
Home cooks have since elevated it with caramelized onions, gourmet cheese, and even bacon, turning it into an irresistible comfort food that’s as satisfying as any traditional burger.
Pairing Suggestions
To make a complete meal, consider pairing your Flying Dutchman Burger with:
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Roasted potato wedges or zucchini fries
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Creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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A cold craft beer or sparkling water with lime
Pro Tip for Restaurant-Level Presentation
After assembling, place the burger stack under the broiler for 30–45 seconds to slightly crisp the cheese edges and reheat the onions. The result is a glossy, restaurant-style finish with layers that look as good as they taste.
Conclusion
The Flying Dutchman Burger is proof that simplicity can be extraordinary. With juicy beef, melty cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, it’s a flavor-packed meal that doesn’t need a bun to impress. It’s bold, rich, and completely satisfying — a true showstopper for any burger lover.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just want to try something new, this burger delivers indulgence without compromise. Each bite bursts with flavor — savory beef, creamy cheese, and smoky-sweet onions — making it an unforgettable experience that rivals any gourmet burger.
Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that turns any night into a feast.