Decoding the Flying Dutchman with Whole Grilled Onions
The Flying Dutchman is a low-carb, high-protein item from In-N-Out's secret menu. The original version contains two beef patties with two slices of melted cheese, totaling around 380 calories. A popular modification replaces the standard grilled onions, with thick slices of whole grilled onions replacing the bun. This change affects the calorie and fat content.
The Impact of the Grilled Onions
While a small amount of grilled onions might only add about 20 calories to the 380-calorie Flying Dutchman, the whole grilled onion slices can introduce additional calories. In-N-Out grills onions using butter or oil. When ordering the "whole grilled onion" option, the onion slices are cooked until soft and caramelized, adding fat and calories. The amount can vary depending on the cooking process. Estimates suggest this can increase the total calorie count to roughly 400 calories or slightly higher, with some sources reporting figures like 410 or even 452 calories, though the higher number often includes other ingredients in a copycat recipe.
Nutritional Breakdown and Macro Split
The Flying Dutchman, with or without grilled onions, is a macro-friendly choice for low-carb or keto diets. The primary macronutrients come from the beef patties and cheese. The addition of grilled onions adds a small number of carbohydrates and some fat, but the profile remains focused on protein and fat.
Here's a breakdown of the macros for a Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions:
- Protein: The beef patties are the main source, contributing around 30 grams of protein.
- Fat: The fat content is mainly from the beef and cheese. A standard Flying Dutchman has about 28 grams of fat. The whole grilled onions, cooked in oil or butter, will add more fat.
- Carbohydrates: The standard Flying Dutchman has about 2 grams of carbs from the cheese. The whole grilled onions add a small amount, keeping the carb count low, which is ideal for keto diets.
Customization Options and Their Calorie Impact
Customization is key for managing calorie intake. While whole grilled onions add flavor, they also contribute extra calories from the cooking fat. You can request your onions to be grilled without extra butter or oil, though this may affect the caramelization and texture. Another option is ordering a Flying Dutchman plain with a side of onions.
Flying Dutchman Comparison Table
Here is a comparison of the estimated nutrition for different Flying Dutchman variations:
| Item | Calories (approx.) | Fat (g) (approx.) | Carbs (g) (approx.) | Protein (g) (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Flying Dutchman | 380 | 28 | 2 | 30 |
| Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions | 400-410 | 30-33 | 4 | 30-31 |
| Double-Double with Onion | 610 | 30 | ~41 | ~34 |
| Flying Dutchman (Animal Style) | 400+ | 30+ | 4+ | 30+ |
Conclusion
Knowing the calories in a Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions is important for making informed dietary choices. Estimates put the count between 400 and 410 calories, a slight increase over the standard version due to cooking fat. This secret menu item is a low-carb, high-protein alternative to traditional fast-food burgers, offering a flavorful meal while supporting nutritional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out?
Answer: The Flying Dutchman is an In-N-Out secret menu item. It consists of two beef patties with two slices of cheese in between, without a bun.
What are whole grilled onions at In-N-Out?
Answer: Whole grilled onions are thick onion slices grilled until caramelized and soft, used in place of a bun for items like the Flying Dutchman.
Is the Flying Dutchman a low-carb meal?
Answer: Yes, the Flying Dutchman is a low-carb and keto-friendly meal because it has no bun, with most calories coming from fat and protein.
How many calories does the whole grilled onion add?
Answer: The grilled onions add approximately 20-30 calories to the standard Flying Dutchman, bringing the total to around 400-410 calories.
Can I order a Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions and other toppings?
Answer: Yes, you can customize your Flying Dutchman with toppings, but this will increase the calorie count.
How does a Flying Dutchman with grilled onions compare to a Double-Double?
Answer: A Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions has fewer calories (approx. 410) than a Double-Double with a bun (610 calories), making it a lighter choice.
Is the Flying Dutchman with whole grilled onions messy to eat?
Answer: Yes, the Flying Dutchman is messy to eat, and it is best eaten with a fork or multiple napkins due to the lack of a bun.
