Flying Dutchman Burger Recipe
Introduction
The Flying Dutchman Burger is a flavorful twist on a classic burger, featuring layers of melted cheese, charred onions, and a tangy homemade sauce. This recipe balances smoky, savory, and creamy elements for a truly satisfying bite.

Ingredients
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp burger seasoning
- 1 cup mayo
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the yellow onion into 4 large rings, keeping each ring intact. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine mayo, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, relish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to make the burger sauce.
- Step 3: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion slices and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a nice char.
- Step 4: Add a splash of water to the onions, cover with a lid, and steam for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Step 5: Divide the beef into 4 portions (about ¼ pound each). Press each portion thinly using a burger press or spatula. Season both sides with burger seasoning.
- Step 6: Cook the patties on the griddle for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip. Immediately top each patty with a slice of American cheese so it begins to melt.
- Step 7: While patties cook, place the mozzarella cheese slices on the griddle. Once melted and golden, place each softened onion ring on top of a melted cheese slice. Remove after 2 minutes.
- Step 8: Build the burger by placing a cheese-topped onion ring on the bottom, spreading some burger sauce over it, adding the burger patty, more sauce, and finishing with another cheese-topped onion ring on top.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding pickles or crispy bacon alongside the onion layers.
- Use a cast iron skillet if you don’t have a griddle for better heat retention and sear.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference; adding a pinch of cayenne in the sauce gives a nice kick.
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a sharper or spicier taste.
Storage
Store any leftover burger patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out. The onion rings are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in a pan or microwave.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together nicely.
What type of beef is best for this burger?
Using 80/20 ground beef provides a good balance of meat and fat, ensuring juicy and flavorful patties. Leaner beef tends to dry out during cooking.
PrintFlying Dutchman Burger Recipe
The Flying Dutchman Burger is a decadent, double-cheese delight featuring perfectly smashed seasoned beef patties, caramelized onion slices with a cheesy golden crust, and a tangy, flavorful burger sauce. This recipe combines classic American cheeseburger flavors with a unique onion preparation that adds texture and depth, making for a truly satisfying and indulgent burger experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Category: Burger
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef Patties
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 2 tbsp burger seasoning
Onions
- 1 large yellow onion
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Burger Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Onion Slices: Slice the yellow onion into 4 large rings, keeping their circular shape intact for structural integrity during cooking.
- Season Onions: Season both sides of the onion slices generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make Burger Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, relish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined. Set aside.
- Cook Onions on Griddle: Heat a griddle over medium-high heat. Place the onion slices on the hot surface and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a good char.
- Steam the Onions: Add a splash of water to the griddle and cover the onions with a lid or foil to steam for 3-4 minutes, softening them while retaining their shape.
- Form Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into ¼ pound portions and form them into thin patties using a burger press or spatula. Season both sides with the burger seasoning.
- Cook Burger Patties: On the hot griddle, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on the first side, then flip.
- Add American Cheese: Immediately after flipping the patties, place a slice of American cheese on each patty side to begin melting.
- Toast Mozzarella on Griddle: While patties cook, place 4 slices of mozzarella cheese directly on the griddle over medium heat. Once the cheese starts to toast, place an onion slice on top of each mozzarella slice to create a cheesy onion patty. Remove after 2 minutes when the cheese is toasted and golden brown.
- Assemble the Burger: Start with a cheesy onion slice on the bottom, spread some burger sauce over it, add a burger patty with melted American cheese, top with more sauce, then finish with another cheesy onion slice on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Using 80/20 ground beef ensures a juicy and flavorful burger with enough fat for good mouthfeel.
- Smashing the patties thin helps them develop a crispy crust when cooked on the griddle.
- The steaming step softens the onion without losing the charred flavor, giving a perfect balance of textures.
- The double cheese component (American on patty, mozzarella beneath onions) adds richness and flavor depth.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the burger sauce to your taste preferences, especially the smokiness and tanginess.
Keywords: Flying Dutchman Burger, smashed burger, cheesy burger, grilled onions, American cheese, mozzarella, homemade burger sauce

