Pin it Prepare this delicious bunless burger featuring double beef patties with melted cheese layers. The Flying Dutchman style creates a rich, cheesy center between two juicy patties. Using ground beef and American cheese, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes with simple grilling techniques. Perfect for those seeking a classic American burger experience without the bun.
My friend from California couldn't stop talking about In-N-Out during her visit, so I decided to recreate their secret at home. Standing at the stove, watching cheese drip down the sides of those patties, I understood what all the fuss was about. Sometimes the simplest food hits the hardest.
My husband was skeptical about a bunless burger until he took that first bite. Now he requests these on busy weeknights when we want something indulgent but quick. The way the cheese fuses everything together is absolute magic.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The 80/20 blend gives you enough fat to keep things juicy without being greasy
- American cheese: It melts like nothing else and creates that classic diner flavor
- Kosher salt: Use it generously because salt is what makes beef taste like itself
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked adds a little warmth that cuts through the rich cheese
- Butter or oil: Helps get that gorgeous crust on the patties
Instructions
- Shape your patties:
- Divide the beef into four equal portions and gently press them into thin patties about 1/3 inch thick. Make them slightly wider than you think you need because they will shrink when cooking.
- Season generously:
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each patty right before they hit the pan.
- Get the pan hot:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter or oil until it shimmers.
- Sear the patties:
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you get a nice brown crust and the meat is cooked through.
- Melt the cheese:
- Place a slice of cheese on two patties during the last minute of cooking and cover briefly to help it melt.
- Stack them up:
- Place one cheese topped patty on top of a plain patty with the cheese side down.
- Add toppings if you want:
- Slide pickles, tomatoes, grilled onions or lettuce between the layers.
- Serve immediately:
- Get these to the table while the cheese is still molten and irresistible.
Pin it Last summer I made these for a backyard cookout and even the bun lovers reached for seconds. There is something wonderfully primal about eating with your hands and letting the flavors speak for themselves.
Getting The Cheese Right
The American cheese is non-negotiable here. I tried cheddar once and while it tasted good it did not achieve that same creamy blanket effect that makes the Flying Dutchman so special.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp cold beer or an icy glass of lemonade cuts through the richness perfectly. I also love serving these with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance all that savory goodness.
Make It Your Own
Once you master the basic technique you can play around with different cheeses and toppings. The structure stays the same but the flavors can change completely.
- Try Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms for a diner style twist
- Pepper jack and jalapeños work if you like some heat
- Caramelized onions and gruyere make it feel fancy
Pin it These burgers prove you do not need anything between you and incredible food to have a truly spectacular meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this burger different from a regular cheeseburger?
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This burger features two beef patties with cheese sandwiched between them, creating a double-patty stack with melted cheese in the middle. It's served without a bun, making it perfect for low-carb diets.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
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Yes! While American cheese is traditional for its meltability, you can substitute with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. The key is using cheese that melts well.
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
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Grill onions slowly over medium heat until they turn golden brown and sweet. This brings out their natural sugars and adds depth to the burger.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Yes, this burger is naturally gluten-free when using dedicated cooking surfaces and checking cheese labels for gluten-free certification.
- → What sides pair well with this burger?
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Serve with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that complements the rich beef and cheese flavors.
