The Unofficial 4x2: A Secret Menu Staple
For die-hard fans of In-N-Out, the '4x2' is a badge of honor. It refers to a custom-ordered burger featuring four beef patties and two slices of American cheese. The 'protein style' preparation means replacing the standard hamburger bun with a fresh, crisp lettuce wrap. Because this item isn't on the official menu, its nutritional information is not publicly available from the company, requiring a breakdown based on known components from their official nutrition data.
Calorie Estimation: A Component-Based Approach
To accurately determine the calorie count, we can break down the 4x2 protein style into its core ingredients using data from In-N-Out's own nutrition guide and other reliable food databases. The foundation of our calculation starts with the Double-Double protein style, a similar but smaller item listed on the official menu. This item contains two patties, two cheese slices, spread, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- A Double-Double protein style is listed as 450 calories.
- A 4x2 protein style adds two more beef patties to this base.
Breaking Down the Components
By extrapolating from the official nutritional data, we can estimate the calories for the extra patties. The official PDF shows a single protein style cheeseburger has 270 calories, while the double-double protein style has 450 calories, an increase of 180 calories for adding one patty and one slice of cheese. Using third-party sources that estimate component calories offers a more direct approach. A common estimate places a single In-N-Out beef patty at roughly 110 calories.
- Double-Double Protein Style (Base): ~450 calories (includes 2 patties, 2 cheese, spread, veggies).
- Two Additional Patties: 2 x ~110 calories (estimated) = ~220 calories.
- Total for 4x2 with spread: 450 + 220 = ~670 calories.
This calculation provides a solid estimate for the total calories in a 4x2 protein style with the standard spread, lettuce, tomato, and onion. It's important to remember that ingredient variation and preparation style can cause minor fluctuations in the final number.
Comparison Table: 4x2 Protein Style Variations
The condiment choice is a significant factor in the total calorie count. In-N-Out's famous spread is rich and creamy, contributing a substantial amount of fat and calories. Switching to a less calorically dense option like mustard and ketchup can significantly reduce the overall calorie total. The official nutrition info shows a Double-Double protein style with mustard and ketchup drops the calorie count from 450 to 370, a difference of 80 calories. We can apply this same logic to the 4x2.
| Item | Calorie Estimate | Key Components |
|---|---|---|
| 4x2 Protein Style (with Spread) | ~670 kcal | 4 patties, 2 cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, spread |
| 4x2 Protein Style (Mustard/Ketchup) | ~590 kcal | 4 patties, 2 cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mustard, ketchup |
| Double-Double Protein Style | ~450 kcal | 2 patties, 2 cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, spread |
| 4x4 Protein Style | ~900 kcal | 4 patties, 4 cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, spread |
How to Reduce the Calorie Count Further
For those seeking an even lower-calorie option, further customization is possible. Since In-N-Out builds each burger to order, you have control over every ingredient. Here are a few strategies:
- Hold the Cheese: Forgoing the two slices of cheese can save approximately 140 calories (2 x ~70 calories per slice, estimated). This brings the total for a spread-free 4x0 protein style down to around 450 calories.
- Light on the Spread: Requesting 'light spread' can reduce the calorie load without eliminating the signature flavor entirely. For maximum calorie savings, opt for mustard and ketchup as mentioned previously.
- Add More Veggies: While they don't significantly impact the calorie count, adding extra lettuce, tomato, or grilled onions can increase the volume and fiber content, boosting satiety without adding many calories.
- Mustard-Grilled Patties: Requesting your patties to be 'mustard-grilled' adds a flavorful sear for minimal extra calories.
Other Secret Menu Protein Style Variations
The protein style option is not limited to just the 4x2. In-N-Out offers lettuce-wrapped versions of all its standard burgers, providing a lower-carb alternative for those on specific diets like keto. For instance, the popular Double-Double protein style offers a satisfying meal with a significantly lower carbohydrate load than its bunned counterpart. Other options include single patty cheeseburgers or hamburgers. For those who want to eliminate the calories from the spread and veggies entirely, the 'Flying Dutchman' (two cheese slices melted between two patties) can be ordered protein style, wrapped in lettuce. This offers a minimalist, high-fat, high-protein experience for a truly low-carb meal.
The Verdict: What to Expect from Your 4x2 Protein Style
Ultimately, a 4x2 protein style is a substantial, protein-packed meal. A basic order with spread will clock in at approximately 670 calories, while a version with mustard and ketchup will be closer to 590 calories. The key takeaway is that the 'protein style' modification significantly reduces the carbohydrate count by eliminating the bun, making it a viable option for those on a low-carb diet. However, the high fat content from the patties and cheese, and especially the spread, means it remains a calorically dense meal that should be factored into your daily intake.
Conclusion
The 4x2 protein style is a customizable and delicious choice for those looking for a high-protein, lower-carb fast food option. By understanding the components and making strategic condiment choices, you can effectively manage the final calorie count. Whether you opt for the full-flavored classic with spread or a more streamlined version with mustard, the lettuce-wrapped format offers a satisfying alternative to the standard burger.
