This Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is a game-changer for burger lovers looking for a low-carb option without compromising on taste. Instead of the traditional bun, juicy beef patties are sandwiched between golden caramelized onion rings, creating a flavorful bite with every mouthful. The melted cheese binds everything together, making each bite a satisfying mix of umami-rich flavors.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 2 large yellow onions
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 slices American cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ketchup (optional)

Directions

• Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
• Slice the onions into thick rounds, about 1/2 inch thick, keeping the rings together.
• Heat a tablespoon of butter in the skillet and place the onion rings in the pan. Sear until golden brown on one side, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
• In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently to combine.
• Divide the beef into two portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the onion rings, as they will shrink while cooking.
• Cook the patties on the hot skillet for about 3 minutes per side or until a crust forms.
• Place a slice of cheese on each patty and allow it to melt.
• Sandwich the cheesy beef patties between two onion rings, pressing gently to hold everything together.
• Serve as is for a low-carb meal, or add a touch of mustard and ketchup for extra flavor.

Nutrients

• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 850mg

Why Choose a Low-Carb Burger Alternative?

For many individuals, especially those on low-carb diets such as keto, traditional burgers can present a challenge. The bun, typically the largest source of carbohydrates in a burger, can be a significant deterrent. That’s where creative recipes like the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman come into play. By swapping the bun for savory onion rings, you reduce the carb count dramatically while still enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal. The choice to skip the bread does not mean compromising on taste. Instead, the onions’ natural sweetness and deep caramelization complement the beef’s rich flavors, providing a balance that traditional buns often can’t achieve. Plus, the melted cheese binds the entire dish together, adding that classic cheeseburger experience, but in a much healthier format.

The Role of Caramelized Onions in the Recipe

Caramelizing onions is a key part of this recipe. The process of caramelization brings out the natural sweetness of onions, turning them from their sharp, pungent state into tender, golden, and slightly sweet rings. When paired with the beef, the caramelized onions enhance the overall flavor profile by providing a layer of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory, juicy patties. Caramelized onions also add depth to the dish, contributing complexity to what could otherwise be a simple meal. The onions take on a rich, almost umami-like taste during the caramelization process, making them a perfect substitute for the traditional burger bun.

Perfecting the Beef Patties

The quality of the beef patty is just as important in this recipe as the caramelized onions. Using an 80/20 ground beef blend provides the ideal balance between tenderness and juiciness. The higher fat content in the beef ensures that the patties stay moist while cooking, making each bite juicy and flavorful. For added flavor, seasoning the beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is crucial. These ingredients help to amplify the natural umami flavors of the beef, creating a more complex and rich taste. Shaping the patties slightly larger than the onion rings allows for shrinkage during cooking, ensuring that the patties fit perfectly between the caramelized onion rings.

The Importance of Cheese

No burger is complete without cheese, and in the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman, the melted American cheese serves an essential role. The cheese not only binds the patty and onion rings together but also adds a creamy, melty texture that complements the caramelized onions and juicy beef. The American cheese slices are ideal because they melt effortlessly and provide a mild, creamy taste that enhances rather than competes with the other flavors in the burger. If you prefer a stronger cheese, you could experiment with different varieties like cheddar or Swiss. However, American cheese offers the perfect meltability and neutral flavor that elevates the overall taste without overpowering the sweetness of the onions or the richness of the beef.

Serving the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman

Once assembled, the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is a hearty meal that’s visually appealing and packed with flavor. You can enjoy it as a simple, low-carb dinner or add a few extra toppings to make it even more indulgent. For instance, a drizzle of mustard or ketchup can add a tangy contrast to the savory burger, while a side of leafy greens or a low-carb salad can complement the meal perfectly. This dish can also be a fun addition to a BBQ or cookout. It’s an impressive, unique take on the traditional burger that will surprise and delight your guests, all while sticking to your low-carb, keto-friendly goals.

Nutritional Benefits and Considerations

One of the biggest advantages of the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is its nutritional profile. It’s a high-protein, low-carb meal, making it a great option for anyone looking to build or maintain muscle, lose weight, or simply reduce their carbohydrate intake. With just 8 grams of carbs per serving, this dish fits perfectly into a keto diet or any low-carb lifestyle. The inclusion of healthy fats from the beef and butter ensures you get enough energy to keep you going through the day. However, there are a few things to consider. If you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the Worcestershire sauce and cheese, both of which contribute to the sodium content.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Low-Carb Burger Experience

The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is an innovative twist on the traditional cheeseburger, offering a satisfying and flavorful low-carb alternative to those who are looking to reduce their carb intake without compromising on taste. By replacing the bread with sweet, caramelized onion rings, this recipe delivers all the richness of a classic burger with an added depth of flavor.