The Ultimate Flying Dutchman Burger: A Protein-Packed, Low-Carb Delight

Have you ever craved a juicy burger without the guilt of extra carbs? The flying dutchman burger is your answer. This iconic, bunless burger sensation has taken the low-carb and keto communities by storm, offering all the flavor of a classic cheeseburger without the bread. Making this simple yet satisfying dish at home gives you complete control over ingredients, ensures freshness, and saves money compared to ordering out. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle, cutting carbs, or simply love a good burger, mastering the flying dutchman burger recipe is a game-changer for your meal rotation.

Ingredients List

    • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
    • 4 slices of American cheese (or cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack)
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
    • Optional: onion powder, garlic powder for extra flavor

For the Toppings (Optional):

    • Lettuce leaves
    • Sliced tomatoes
    • Pickles
    • Grilled onions
    • Sugar-free ketchup or mustard
    • Bacon strips

Timing / Cooking Schedule

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Total time: 15 minutes

This recipe is incredibly fast, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. From start to finish, you'll have a restaurant-quality burger ready in less time than ordering delivery.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form into patties, being careful not to overwork the meat—this keeps them tender. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat Your Cooking Surface Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add oil or butter and let it get hot but not smoking. A properly heated pan ensures a beautiful crust on your flying dutchman burger recipe while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 3: Cook the First Side Place patties in the hot pan, giving them space. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them—resist the urge to press down, as this squeezes out flavorful juices. You should see a golden-brown crust forming.

Step 4: Flip and Add Cheese Flip the patties carefully. Immediately place 1-2 slices of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature 145°F) or adjust to your preference.

Step 5: Stack and Serve For the classic flying dutchman presentation, stack two cheese-topped patties together, creating a cheese-in-the-middle "sandwich" without the bun. The cheese acts as both filling and glue, holding your burger together.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 4):

    • Calories: 385
    • Protein: 28g
    • Carbohydrates: 2g
    • Fat: 30g
    • Fiber: 0g
    • Vitamin C: 2% DV
    • Iron: 18% DV

Tips, Variations, or Cooking Advice

Cheese Options: Experiment with provolone, blue cheese, or goat cheese for gourmet variations. For dairy-free versions, use plant-based cheese alternatives.

Meat Alternatives: Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes for different nutritional profiles. Lamb or bison create unique flavor experiences.

Flavor Boosters: Mix Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, or finely diced jalapeños into the meat before forming patties for extra depth.

Meal Prep: Cook patties in advance and store separately from cheese. Reheat and add fresh cheese when ready to eat.

Keto-Friendly Additions: Wrap in butter lettuce, add avocado slices, or top with a fried egg for additional healthy fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overworking the Meat: Mixing or handling the beef too much creates tough, dense patties. Form them gently and quickly.

Using Lean Beef: Choosing 90/10 or leaner ground beef results in dry burgers. The 80/20 blend provides necessary fat for moisture and flavor.

Cooking at Too Low Heat: Insufficient heat prevents proper browning and crust formation. Medium-high heat is essential for the Maillard reaction.

Pressing Down on Patties: This common mistake squeezes out juices, leaving you with dry, flavorless burgers.

Adding Cheese Too Early: Wait until after flipping to add cheese, ensuring it melts perfectly without burning.

Storage / Leftovers Tips

Store cooked flying dutchman burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep cheese separate if possible to maintain better texture. For freezing, wrap individual patties tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, adding fresh cheese during the last minute. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the meat rubbery. For best results with the flying dutchman burger recipe, prepare fresh cheese each time you reheat. You can also enjoy cold patties sliced over salads for quick keto lunches. When storing with toppings, keep wet ingredients like tomatoes separate to prevent sogginess.