Copycat Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman: In-N-Out Secret Menu Delight at Home!

Have you ever heard whispers of a mythical burger, a creation so clandestine it’s not even on the official menu? We’re talking about the In-N-Out Flying Dutchman, and its even more elusive cousin, the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman! For In-N-Out aficionados, these burgers represent the pinnacle of customization and a testament to the chain’s fresh, simple ingredients. But what if you don’t live near an In-N-Out, or simply crave that grilled onion goodness in the comfort of your own home? Fear not! This copycat recipe will guide you step-by-step to recreate this legendary burger, onion-wrapped and all, bringing the West Coast favorite right to your kitchen.

## What is the Flying Dutchman (and the Onion-Wrapped Version)?

The Flying Dutchman is a minimalist burger from In-N-Out’s “secret menu.” It consists of two beef patties and two slices of cheese. That’s it. No bun, no lettuce, no tomato, no spread. It’s pure beefy, cheesy goodness.

Now, the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman takes it a step further. Instead of a bun, the patties and cheese are sandwiched between two large, caramelized onion slices. The onions provide sweetness, texture, and a unique flavor that perfectly complements the beef and cheese. It’s a low-carb dream and a flavor explosion all in one!

## Why This Copycat Recipe Works

This recipe focuses on replicating the key elements of the In-N-Out experience:

* **High-Quality Beef:** In-N-Out uses 100% pure beef patties with no additives or fillers. We’ll emphasize using the best ground beef you can find.
* **Fresh Onions:** The onions are the star of the show. We’ll guide you on how to properly caramelize them to achieve that signature In-N-Out sweetness.
* **Simple Cheese:** American cheese is a classic choice, melting beautifully over the patties. Feel free to experiment, but American provides that authentic flavor.
* **Searing Technique:** A good sear on the patties is crucial for developing flavor. We’ll share tips on achieving a perfect crust.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Ground Beef:** 1 pound, 80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and juiciness
* **Large Onions:** 2-3, yellow or white, depending on size. Choose onions that are relatively uniform in shape to make wrapping easier.
* **American Cheese Slices:** 4 slices
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Oil or Butter:** For grilling the onions
* **Optional:** Your favorite burger sauce or In-N-Out spread copycat recipe (details below!)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Skillet or Griddle:** Cast iron is ideal for even heating and a good sear.
* **Spatula:** A thin, flexible spatula is best for flipping the patties and onions.
* **Knife and Cutting Board:** For preparing the onions.
* **Tongs:** For handling the onions and patties.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

**1. Preparing the Onions:**

* **Slice the Onions:** Peel the onions. The key to a good onion-wrapped burger is having relatively uniform, thick slices. Aim for slices that are about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This provides enough structure to hold the burger together. If your onions are very large, you can cut them in half horizontally after peeling to create wider slices. Discard the very ends of the onion.
* **Caramelizing the Onions:** Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add about a tablespoon of oil or butter. Once melted, add the onion slices in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to work in batches. Sprinkle the onions with a pinch of salt. This helps draw out moisture and speeds up the caramelization process.
* **Patience is Key:** Caramelizing onions is a slow process. Let the onions cook undisturbed for several minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent. Then, flip them and continue cooking. The goal is to achieve a deep golden-brown color and a sweet, mellow flavor. This can take anywhere from 20-40 minutes, depending on the heat and the type of onion. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. If the onions start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. Add a tablespoon or two of water to the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom; this deglazes the pan and adds more flavor to the onions.
* **Remove and Set Aside:** Once the onions are caramelized to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

**2. Preparing the Beef Patties:**

* **Divide the Beef:** Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a thin patty, about ¼ inch thick and slightly larger than the onion slices. Remember, they will shrink slightly during cooking. Don’t overwork the beef, as this can make the patties tough. A light touch is best.
* **Season Generously:** Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! The seasoning is crucial for developing flavor, especially since there are no other toppings on this burger.
* **Sear the Patties:** Heat the same skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You can add a little more oil if needed, but there should be enough fat rendered from the onions to prevent sticking. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, leaving some space between them. Sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For a medium burger, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
* **Melt the Cheese:** In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or tent it with foil to help the cheese melt quickly.

**3. Assembling the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman:**

* **First Layer:** Place two of the caramelized onion slices on a clean plate or cutting board. These will be the “bottom buns.”
* **Add the Patties:** Carefully place a cheeseburger patty on top of each onion slice.
* **Second Layer:** Top each patty with another caramelized onion slice, creating the “top bun.”
* **Serve Immediately:** Serve your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman immediately while the cheese is melted and the onions are warm.

## Tips for the Perfect Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman

* **Choose the Right Onions:** Yellow or white onions are the best choices for caramelizing. They have a good balance of sweetness and flavor. Avoid red onions, as they don’t caramelize as well.
* **Don’t Rush the Onions:** Caramelizing onions takes time and patience. Don’t try to rush the process by turning up the heat. This will only result in burnt onions. Low and slow is the key.
* **Use High-Quality Beef:** The quality of the beef makes a big difference in the flavor of the burger. Choose a good-quality ground beef with a decent fat content (80/20 is ideal).
* **Don’t Overcook the Patties:** Overcooked patties will be dry and tough. Aim for medium or medium-well for the best flavor and texture.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the patties generously with salt and pepper. This is especially important since there are no other toppings to add flavor.
* **Make it a Double (or Triple!):** If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can easily double or triple the patties and cheese for an even more decadent burger.
* **Get Creative with Cheese:** While American cheese is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack would all be delicious.
* **Add a Sauce:** While the Flying Dutchman is traditionally served without sauce, you can definitely add your favorite burger sauce or In-N-Out spread copycat to enhance the flavor.

## In-N-Out Spread Copycat Recipe

No In-N-Out experience is complete without their signature spread! Here’s a simple copycat recipe:

* ½ cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
* ½ teaspoon white vinegar
* ¼ teaspoon sugar
* Pinch of salt and pepper

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This spread is perfect for dipping or slathering on your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman.

## Variations and Customizations

* **Grilled Cheese Flying Dutchman:** For a vegetarian option, replace the beef patties with grilled cheese sandwiches made with your favorite cheese. Wrap them in caramelized onions for a unique and satisfying vegetarian meal.
* **Spicy Flying Dutchman:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef patties or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
* **Bacon-Wrapped Flying Dutchman:** Wrap the beef patties in bacon before cooking for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
* **Mushroom and Swiss Flying Dutchman:** Top the beef patties with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a gourmet twist.
* **Add Avocado:** For a California-inspired twist, add slices of fresh avocado to your Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman.

## Serving Suggestions

The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is a hearty meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* **French Fries:** Classic pairing!
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** A healthier alternative to regular fries.
* **Onion Rings:** Double down on the onion flavor!
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing side dish to balance the richness of the burger.
* **Salad:** A light and healthy option.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: 600-800
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 40-60g
* Carbohydrates: 15-25g (mostly from the onions)

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates due to the absence of a bun. It’s a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, it is high in fat and calories, so consume in moderation.

## Conclusion

The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman is a truly unique and delicious burger experience. While it may seem intimidating at first, this copycat recipe makes it easy to recreate this In-N-Out secret menu item at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy this low-carb, flavor-packed burger anytime you want. So, fire up your skillet, caramelize those onions, and get ready to taste the legendary Flying Dutchman! Enjoy!

## FAQs

**Q: Can I use pre-caramelized onions?**

While you can use pre-caramelized onions to save time, they won’t have the same fresh flavor as homemade. If you do use them, be sure to warm them up before assembling the burger.

**Q: Can I grill the onions instead of cooking them in a skillet?**

Yes, you can grill the onions. However, it can be more challenging to caramelize them properly on a grill. Use a grill pan or place the onion slices on a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent them from falling through the grates.

**Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?**

Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, Swiss, and pepper jack are all good alternatives to American cheese.

**Q: Can I freeze the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman?**

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled burger, as the onions and cheese may not hold up well. However, you can freeze the cooked beef patties separately.

**Q: Where can I find good-quality ground beef?**

You can find good-quality ground beef at most grocery stores or butcher shops. Look for ground beef with a decent fat content (80/20 is ideal) and a bright red color.

**Q: How do I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?**

To prevent the onions from burning, use low heat and stir them occasionally. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat and add a tablespoon or two of water to the pan.