Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman Recipe

If you have a hunger for something truly unique and utterly delicious, let me introduce you to the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman. This inventive take on the classic double cheeseburger replaces the traditional bun with luscious caramelized onion rings, creating a juicy, cheesy masterpiece hugged by sweet, golden onions. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of savory beef, melty American cheese, and a tangy, creamy spread that elevates the whole experience. Trust me, the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman will become your new favorite indulgence whether you’re hosting friends or craving a special treat just for yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the rich flavor of the patties, adding the perfect cheesy melt, or balancing the dish with a tangy spread and sweet, caramelized onions.

• Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the spread that adds moisture and richness.
• Pickle relish: Adds a burst of tangy crunch to the spread without overwhelming the flavors.
• Ketchup: Gives sweetness and depth to the spread, harmonizing the taste.
• Sugar: Used in both the spread and onions, it enhances sweetness and helps caramelize perfectly.
• White vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that balances the sweetness in the spread.
• Yellow mustard: Brings a subtle tang to the spread and a hint when frying the patties, layering flavor.
• Ground beef (80/20): The star of the patty for juicy, flavorful burger rounds with the right fat ratio.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out the natural flavors in the beef and onions.
• Butter and vegetable oil: These fats are perfect for cooking the patties and caramelizing the onions evenly.
• American cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the patties and onions for that iconic gooey goodness.
• Yellow onion (large): Thick circular slices form the unforgettable “buns” of this burger, sweet and soft from caramelization.

How to Make Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman

Step 1: Make the Spread

Start by combining mayonnaise, pickle relish, ketchup, sugar, and white vinegar in a small bowl. This mixture will turn a lovely pink color and give your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman that irresistible tangy, sweet creaminess. Set this aside for later—trust me, it’s the secret sauce that brings everything together.

Step 2: Prepare the Patties

Divide your ground beef into eight portions weighing about 3 to 4 ounces each. Lightly flatten them into circular patties but be gentle—avoid overworking the meat so they stay tender and juicy. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to ensure every bite is packed with savory flavor.

Step 3: Make Caramelized Onion Buns

Heat vegetable oil over medium to medium-low heat in a large pan or on a flat grill. Once hot, add the large circular onion slices, sprinkling them lightly with sugar and salt. Cook them slowly, letting the edges become golden and soft—flip carefully to caramelize the other side. Just before removing from heat, place a slice of American cheese on half of these grilled onions to create a melty, cheesy “bun.” These onion rings will wrap your burger in sweet, tender perfection.

Step 4: Cook and Assemble the Burger

Heat butter and vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Place the patties in the pan, and if you wish, spread a thin layer of yellow mustard on the raw side for an extra tangy kick. Cook for 2-3 minutes until each patty develops a beautiful brown crust. Flip them over, adding a slice of American cheese to half of the patties. Let the cheese melt for about a minute. Now, stack a plain patty on top of a cheesy one to recreate the classic double cheeseburger that’s the heart of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman. Place this patty stack on a grilled onion ring, then top with a cheesy onion “bun.” Serve immediately with the prepared spread to enjoy warm and delicious.

How to Serve Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman

Garnishes

To enhance the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman, fresh cilantro or finely chopped chives work wonders by adding a burst of color and a contrast of mild herbaceousness. Pickle slices or a gentle drizzle of extra relish on the side can also brighten the palate while complementing the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a zesty coleslaw that brings crunchy freshness. For a lighter option, a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the burger perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by stacking multiple Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman sliders for a fun party platter, or serve it alongside mini dipping bowls filled with additional spread and mustard for guests to customize their bites. Wrapping each burger in parchment paper makes for both an eye-catching presentation and an easy, mess-free way to enjoy this treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman (and who wouldn’t?), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to preserve freshness without drying the patties or onions.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked patties separately by wrapping each one individually and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. It’s best to prepare and freeze the spread and onions fresh to retain their texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the patties and onion rings in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water and covering the pan to keep them moist. Microwave reheating works too, but keep it brief to avoid toughening the meat and onions.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman?

Absolutely! While American cheese melts perfectly and gives that classic taste, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile. Just be sure the cheese melts well to maintain the burger’s signature gooey texture.

Is the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman suitable for grilling outdoors?

Yes, you can absolutely make this on the grill. Use a grill pan or place the onion rings directly on the grill grates to achieve beautiful caramelization. Just watch carefully to avoid burning the onions since sugar can cook quickly over direct heat.

Can I make the spread in advance?

Definitely! The spread can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.

What if I don’t have yellow onions? Can I use other onions for the buns?

Yellow onions work best because of their natural sweetness and texture when caramelized. However, you can try sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions, though they will give a slightly different flavor and color but still delicious results.

How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?

The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is already a great low-carb alternative to a traditional burger because it replaces the bun with onions. Just ensure you avoid any sugary condiments beyond what’s in the spread and choose low-carb pickles and relishes for the best results.

Final Thoughts

The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is more than just a burger—it’s a bold, flavorful experience that redefines how you enjoy classic comfort food. With its juicy patties, melty cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy spread, this dish promises to excite your taste buds and warm your heart. I can’t wait for you to make this at home and discover why it’s become one of my all-time favorites. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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