There is something incredibly satisfying about the Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe that elevates a simple cheeseburger to an unforgettable experience. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties, enveloped not by a traditional bun, but by caramelized, tender onion rings acting as the perfect savory cradle. This recipe redefines comfort food with a clever twist that’s both low-carb and bursting with rich flavors. Trust me, once you try this delicious take on a flying dutchman burger, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy a classic burger night.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component is simple yet essential, working together to create a balance of texture, flavor, and vibrant color that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20): The perfect fat ratio to keep your patties juicy and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural beef taste without overpowering it.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle aromatic depth supporting the beef.
- 1 large onion (sliced into thick rings): Acts as a sweet, tender, and sturdy bun alternative.
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey cheeseburger experience.
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional): Provides a tangy kick that complements the rich beef.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional): Brings a touch of sweetness and acidity for balance.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional): Adds creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel.
- Pickle slices (optional): Offers a bright crunch to cut through the richness.
- Nonstick spray or oil for grilling: Ensures your onion rings and patties don’t stick and cook evenly.
How to Make Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
Start by separating the large onion into full rings, choosing the four largest rings to act as your burger “buns.” Lightly spray or oil your skillet or grill pan to prevent sticking, then place the onion rings down. Cook them over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully browned and softened, delivering that perfect sweet and smoky flavor that defines this burger.
Step 2: Season and Shape the Beef Patties
While your onion rings rest, mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Shape the meat into two equal patties, ensuring they’re slightly wider than the onion rings for a nest-like fit. This careful shaping guarantees a neat presentation and balanced bite every time.
Step 3: Cook the Patties and Melt the Cheese
Using the same pan, immediately place the patties down and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred doneness. During the final minute of cooking, lay two cheese slices on each patty and cover the pan. This melts the cheese into a luscious layer, tying the whole burger together in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Assemble the Burger
Now the fun part — assemble your Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe! Sandwich each cheesy patty between two grilled onion rings, replacing the usual bread bun. If you love condiments, spread mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise on the onions before stacking. Add pickle slices if you like that extra briny crunch. The result is a juicy, cheesy, and colorful masterpiece ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe

Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices add vibrant color and contrast to this burger’s savory richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can also add brightness, lifting every bite with a hint of freshness—perfect for rounding out the indulgent flavors.
Side Dishes
This burger shines best beside classic fries, but if you’re keeping it low-carb, opt for a crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or crispy zucchini fries also pair beautifully, offering textures that complement the tender onion wrap and juicy beef patties seamlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party twist, serve mini versions as sliders with double-layered onion rings for sturdiness. You can also skewer the assembled burger with a toothpick topped with an olive or cherry tomato for a charming finger food option. Experimenting with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or smoked gouda, can add unique flavor profiles that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe (though they often don’t last long), wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 2 days, preserving the patty’s juiciness and the grilled onion’s sweetness.
Freezing
For longer storage, patties can be cooked ahead of time and frozen separately without the onions to retain texture. Keep them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and prepare fresh onion rings to maintain the perfect balance of flavors and softness.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out, adding the cheese again if desired. Warm the onion rings separately in a pan or oven to keep them tender and caramelized. Assembling right before serving keeps the Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe tasting fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sweet onions like Vidalia are recommended for their mild flavor and natural sweetness, but yellow or white onions will also work well. Just make sure to pick large, thick rings for the best hold and taste.
Is the Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe suitable for keto diets?
Yes! Using onion rings instead of buns reduces carbs significantly while still providing structure and flavor, making it a fantastic keto-friendly alternative to traditional burgers without sacrificing satisfaction.
Can I cook the patties on an outdoor grill instead of a skillet?
Definitely. An outdoor grill will add a lovely smoky flavor. Just be careful when grilling the onion rings—they’re delicate and might require a grill basket or foil to prevent falling through the grates.
How do I prevent the onion rings from getting soggy?
Grilling or pan-searing the rings until nicely browned with minimal moisture is key. Avoid overcooking and let them rest briefly to firm up before assembling the burger. This will keep your “buns” perfectly tender but not soggy.
Can I add other toppings to this burger?
For sure! Crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh avocado slices make great additions. Just keep in mind that the onion rings are the bun, so choose toppings that complement rather than overpower the unique onion wrap flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something fresh, fun, and utterly delicious, the Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe is waiting to become a staple in your kitchen. Its combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and grilled onions inventively replaces the traditional bun in the best way possible. Give this recipe a try—you’ll discover a new favorite that brings joy with every bite.
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Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
The Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger is a delicious low-carb twist on a classic cheeseburger, using grilled onion rings as a flavorful and sturdy bun substitute. Juicy seasoned beef patties are grilled to perfection and melted with cheese, then sandwiched between sweet, charred onion rings for a satisfying, gluten-free alternative perfect for keto enthusiasts and burger lovers alike.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Onion Rings and Assembly
- 1 large onion (sliced into thick rings)
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- Pickle slices (optional)
- Nonstick spray or oil for grilling
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the ground beef evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Form the seasoned beef into two equal-sized patties, making them slightly wider than your largest onion rings.
- Prepare Onion Rings: Carefully separate the sliced onion into full rings. Select the four largest rings (two per burger). Lightly spray or brush the grill pan with oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Grill Onion Rings: Place the onion rings on the preheated pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a light golden brown and are slightly softened. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook Beef Patties: Using the same pan to retain flavor, cook the beef patties for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side, adjusting time based on desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place two slices of cheese atop each patty and cover the pan to let the cheese melt thoroughly.
- Assemble the Burgers: To build the burgers, use the grilled onion rings as buns by sandwiching each cheesy beef patty between two onion rings. Add optional condiments such as mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, and pickle slices to enhance the flavor. Serve immediately while hot, ideally accompanied by fries or a low-carb salad.
Notes
- For easier handling and better flavor, opt for large sweet onions like Vidalia.
- Double the onion rings per burger if you prefer a sturdier, bun-like structure.
- This recipe serves as a great low-carb or keto-friendly alternative to traditional bread buns.
- Ensure onion rings are thick-cut to hold the burger patty securely without breaking.