If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying a delicious, secret menu delight right at home, you’re in for a treat with this In-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home. This unique burger swaps the traditional buns for thick, caramelized onion rings, holding together juicy, cheese-covered beef patties that melt in your mouth. It’s a brilliant way to savor that iconic In-N-Out flavor with a fun twist that’s lower in carbs and big on taste. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why it’s not a regular in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bring the In-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home to life, you only need simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in nailing the authentic flavor and texture. From juicy ground beef to perfectly caramelized onions and creamy homemade burger sauce, every element counts.
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80-85% meat/fat ratio): The foundation for juicy, tender patties that don’t dry out.
- 2 large onions, cut into 1/2″ slices: These act as the buns, adding sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil: For perfectly caramelizing your onion “buns” with a golden finish.
- 4-8 slices American cheese: The melty topping that creates that signature gooeyness.
- Salt: To enhance all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild spice to balance the richness.
- Pepperoncini or banana peppers (optional): A tangy sidekick to brighten the plate.
- For the Homemade Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayo: The creamy base that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds a little sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Gives a subtle zest that lifts the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons minced onion: A punch of sharp onion flavor within the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish or minced pickles: For a touch of crunch and acidity.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional): Adds a complex umami depth to the sauce.
How to Make In-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home
Step 1: Whip Up the Homemade Burger Sauce
Start by mixing the mayo, ketchup, mustard, minced onion, and pickle relish in a bowl until fully combined. Don’t hesitate to taste and tweak — add more mustard for tang, ketchup for sweetness, or a splash of Worcestershire for deeper flavor. Set the sauce aside to let those flavors marry while you cook everything else. This sauce is a game changer, bringing all the elements together in one tangy, creamy bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion “Buns”
Slice your onions into thick, intact rings about half an inch thick — these are going to replace traditional buns and hold everything together! Heat your skillet or griddle on medium-high and add the oil. Lay the onion slices carefully onto the pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook them slowly until caramelized on both sides, about 2-4 minutes each. The caramelization brings out their natural sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory beef.
Step 3: Form and Cook Your Beef Patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 to 8 loose balls, depending on how thick you like your patties. Avoid overpacking the meat to keep the patties tender and juicy after cooking. Place them on the hot skillet and smash down firmly with your spatula to create wide, thin patties roughly the size of your onion rings. Season with salt and pepper, and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until just about done.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Assemble
While the patties are still on heat, add 1-2 slices of American cheese on top and allow it to melt beautifully over the hot meat. Once melted, remove from heat and immediately place the cheesy patties on the onion “bun.” Land a generous dollop of your homemade burger sauce on top, then crown your creation with another caramelized onion ring. It’s messy but worth every bite!
How to Serve In-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home
Garnishes
To keep the flavor fresh and vibrant, add pepperoncini or banana peppers on the side. Their mild heat and acidity cut through the rich cheese and beef beautifully. You can also top the burger with a slice of fresh tomato or wrap it in crisp lettuce for a refreshing twist and a bit more texture and color on your plate.
Side Dishes
This onion-wrapped delight pairs wonderfully with crispy fries or even a simple green salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, sautéed mushrooms or even some crunchy pickles alongside elevate the classic burger experience and keep the meal perfectly balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these beauties open-faced on a wooden board with small bowls of your burger sauce for dipping. Or, plate them with a side of crisp slaw for added crunch and vibrant color. For a party, stack sliders on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs — it’s a guaranteed conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover patties and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the burger sauce separately in a small jar to maintain its fresh flavor. This way, you can quickly reassemble a delicious burger later without losing any of the original appeal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, freeze cooked patties wrapped individually in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Onions don’t freeze well cooked this way, so it’s best to prepare fresh next time for that signature sweetness and texture.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through to preserve juiciness. Warm caramelized onions slightly in the pan or microwave so they regain that softness without becoming soggy. Add fresh burger sauce after reheating and assemble right before serving for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this burger?
Absolutely! While American cheese is classic for that melty texture and mild flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even Swiss depending on your taste. Just make sure your cheese melts nicely for the best experience.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! The onion-wrapped version replaces buns with caramelized onion rings, reducing carbs while adding flavor and texture. It’s a clever way to enjoy a burger without the bread guilt.
Can I make this burger vegetarian?
You can swap the beef patties for plant-based alternatives that hold up well on the grill. Just be sure to keep the caramelized onions and cheese or use a vegan cheese to keep that mouthwatering balance.
What’s the best beef grind for these patties?
A ground beef blend at 80-85% lean is perfect because it contains enough fat for juicy, flavorful patties without being too greasy when cooked thin and fast.
How do I keep the onion rings intact when cooking?
Use thick, uniform slices and a lower heat to caramelize slowly. Flip carefully with a thin spatula, going gently to keep the rings whole and perfect for stacking your burger.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about recreating a cherished secret menu item like the In-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home. It’s not just a burger, it’s an experience filled with rich flavors, textures, and a bit of playful fun swapping buns for sweet, caramelized onion rings. Dive in, get a little messy, and savor every bite knowing you’ve mastered an iconic burger in your own kitchen!
PrintIn-N-Out Flying Dutchman Copycat (Onion-Wrapped) – Secret Menu Burger at Home
This In-N-Out Copycat Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burger recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful burger experience without the traditional bun. Featuring caramelized onion slices as the bun and classic American cheese melted perfectly on thin smashed beef patties, this recipe also includes a tangy homemade burger sauce that elevates the flavors to a restaurant-quality level. Perfect for those seeking a low-carb, flavorful twist on a classic cheeseburger.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4–8 burgers 1x
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
For the Onion Wrapped Flying Dutchman Burgers
- 1.5 pounds (680 g) ground beef, preferably 80-85% meat/fat ratio
- 2 large onions, cut into 1/2″ (12 mm) thick slices
- 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) cooking oil
- 4–8 slices American cheese or preferred cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to personal taste
- Pepperoncini or banana peppers, optional
For the Homemade Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellmann’s preferred)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) yellow mustard
- 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) minced onion
- 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) pickle relish or minced pickles
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Homemade Burger Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, minced onion, and pickle relish. Add Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired, adding more mustard or vinegar for tang, ketchup for sweetness, or additional onion for a stronger zing. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Onion Rings: Slice large onions into intact 1/2″ thick rings. Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat top griddle over medium-high heat and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Arrange onion slices on the hot surface and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-4 minutes until the first side is caramelized, then carefully flip while keeping the rings whole. Season the second side and cook until caramelized. Remove gently and set aside, preserving the ring shape for the burger ‘buns.’
- Form and Cook the Beef Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 to 8 loosely packed balls depending on desired patty thickness. Place the beef balls on the hot skillet and smash them flat using a spatula or two, forming thin patties about the diameter of the onion slices as they will shrink when cooking. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until nearly done.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Place a slice of American cheese on each patty and allow it to melt while still on the heat. Once melted, remove patties from the skillet.
- Assemble the Flying Dutchman Burgers: Use the caramelized onion rings as the bun by placing one or two cheese-topped patties on a bottom onion slice. Spread a generous amount of burger sauce on top of the patties. Cap with another onion ring to complete the burger. Serve immediately, optionally with pepperoncini or banana peppers for added tang. For a lighter variation, add tomato slices or wrap the burger in lettuce.
Notes
- Use ground beef with 80-85% lean-to-fat ratio for the best juicy texture without excessive greasiness.
- Do not over-pack the burger patties; loosely formed beef leads to tender, juicy results.
- The homemade burger sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and pairs well with other sandwiches and fries.
- Onions should be sliced thick enough (1/2″) to hold their shape when caramelized and used as buns.
- This burger is messy to eat – having a fork and spoon handy can help.
- Optional toppings like pepperoncini or banana peppers add a nice acidic contrast.
- For a lower-carb option, by using onions instead of bread buns, this burger suits ketogenic or low-carb diets.