Introduction

The Dutchman Burger offers a creative twist on the classic burger by using caramelized onion slices instead of traditional buns. This flavorful recipe combines spicy Creole seasoning, melted American cheese, and a tangy homemade sauce for a unique and satisfying meal.

A close-up view of a layered burger without a bun, placed on a wooden board. The bottom layer is melted bright orange cheddar cheese, dripping slightly over the edges. Above that is a dark brown, juicy beef patty with a crispy crust. On top of the patty is a thick layer of melted cheddar cheese, bright yellow and gooey. Above the cheese sits a creamy sauce speckled with green herbs, thick and textured. The top layer is a large grilled onion slice with dark char marks forming a spiral pattern on its shiny golden-brown surface. In the blurred background, another similar burger and some condiments are visible, all set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 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. In a pan over medium-low heat, slowly caramelize the onion slices for about 10 minutes on each side until they are deeply browned and tender. Set aside for assembly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with Creole seasoning. Divide into four equal portions and shape each into a ball, then smash into thin patties. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through with a nice crust.
Step 3: When the patties are nearly cooked, place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Let the cheese melt before removing from the pan.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Tony Chachere’s, and cayenne pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth to make the sauce.
Step 5: To assemble, place one caramelized onion round on a plate, top with a cheesy burger patty, add a spoonful of sauce, then cover with another onion round as the top bun. Repeat for all burgers.
Step 6: Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy your Dutchman Burger!

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce or omit it entirely.
Try using provolone or pepper jack cheese for a different cheese flavor.
If you prefer a thicker onion bun, slice the onion rounds slightly thicker and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture.

Storage

Store assembled Dutchman Burgers wrapped tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The onion buns may release some moisture, so it’s best to assemble just before serving when possible. Reheat patties in a pan over medium heat to maintain their crust; avoid microwaving the assembled burger to prevent sogginess. Sauce can be stored separately for up to a week in the fridge.

How to Serve

A close-up of a stacked burger without a bun, set on a wooden board above a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is melted, gooey cheddar cheese, bright orange and slightly dripping over the edges. Above the cheese is a thick, juicy beef patty with a browned, textured surface. On top of the patty is a creamy sauce with green herb bits mixed in, looking soft and rich. The top layer is a large, circular grilled onion slice showing dark caramelized grill marks and a glossy, slightly shiny surface. In the background, two more stacked onions sit blurred on the wooden board. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of onion for the bun?

Yes, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or white onions, but yellow onion offers a good balance of sweetness and savory flavor when caramelized.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Dutchman Burger uses onion slices instead of bread buns, making it naturally gluten-free. Just be sure all your seasonings and condiments are gluten-free as well.