The Flying Dutchman Onion Bun Burger on the Traeger Flatrock Griddle

Sometimes a regular burger bun just won’t cut it. When I want something bold, smoky, and over-the-top, I fire up the Traeger Flatrock Griddle and make my Flying Dutchman Onion Bun Burger. Instead of bread, thick slices of onion become the “bun,” holding together a juicy smash burger, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce. It’s messy, fun, and absolutely delicious.

In this recipe, I’ll cover:

• Why the Flying Dutchman Onion Bun Burger is worth a spot in your rotation
• The simple ingredients you’ll need
• Step-by-step cooking instructions on the Flatrock
• Pro tips and answers to common questions
• Final thoughts to inspire your next cook

Let’s get started!

Why Make the Flying Dutchman Onion Bun Burger?

Because this isn’t just a burger—it’s a conversation starter. Swapping the bun for thick onion slices gives you crunch, sweetness, and smoky char that bread can’t deliver. Pile in bacon, smash burger patties, and barbecue sauce, and you’ve got one epic backyard bite.

• Low-Carb and Flavor-Packed – Great for anyone skipping bread but not skipping flavor.
• Sweet and Smoky – Caramelized onion slices bring a whole new layer of taste.
• Griddle-Ready Fun – Perfect recipe to show off what the Traeger Flatrock can do.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions (cut into thick slices for “buns”)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 4 slices bacon
• 2 tbsp Rock’s Anytime Seasoning (or your favorite rub)
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 oz olive oil (for onions)
• Cooking oil (for the griddle)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Griddle (5 minutes)

• Preheat the Traeger Flatrock Griddle to medium-high heat.
• Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon (10 minutes)

• Place bacon strips on the hot griddle.
• Cook until crispy, then remove and set aside on a paper towel.

Step 3: Griddle the Onion Buns (10 minutes)

• Slice onions into thick rounds, about ½–¾ inch thick.
• Brush both sides with olive oil and season lightly with Anytime.
• Place on the griddle and cook 4–5 minutes per side until caramelized and softened, but still sturdy enough to hold the burger.

Step 4: Smash the Burgers (8 minutes)

• Form beef into 2–3 oz balls.
• Place them on the hot griddle, season with Anytime, and smash flat with a spatula.
• Cook 2–3 minutes per side until crispy on the edges and cooked through.

Step 5: Build the Burger (2 minutes)

• Lay down one onion slice as the base “bun.”
• Add smash burger, bacon, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
• Top with another onion slice and press lightly to set.

Key Steps Recap

• Preheat Flatrock and oil the surface.
• Cook bacon until crispy.
• Caramelize thick onion slices for the buns.
• Smash and cook burgers until crispy-edged.
• Stack it all up with barbecue sauce.

Pro Tips

1. Use Thick Onion Slices – Go at least ½ inch so they hold together without falling apart.
2. Olive Oil Is Key – Olive Oil on the onions helps them caramelize and adds richness.
3. Keep It Simple – Don’t overload with toppings—the onion bun already packs plenty of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
A: Yes! Red onions will be a little sweeter and add color, but they work just as well.

Q: Do I need to peel the onions completely?
A: Remove the papery outer layer, but leave the onion rings intact for structure.

Q: Can I add cheese to the burger?
A: Absolutely—melt cheddar, American, or pepper jack right on the smash burger before stacking.

Q: What if I don’t have a Traeger Flatrock?
A: Any flat top or cast-iron skillet will work, but the Flatrock gives you the best sear and heat control.

Q: Is this really sturdy enough to eat without a bun?
A: Yes—the onions soften but stay firm enough to hold everything together. Just be ready for a little mess (that’s part of the fun).

Final Thoughts

The Flying Dutchman Onion Bun Burger is messy, bold, and unforgettable. It’s the perfect way to shake up burger night and show off your Traeger Flatrock Griddle skills. Sweet onion buns, smoky bacon, juicy smash burgers, and barbecue sauce come together in one epic bite.

Ready to try it? Grab some onions, fire up the Flatrock, and take your burger game to the next level.