What Exactly is a Flying Dutchman?
Before diving into the carb count, it's important to understand what the Flying Dutchman from In-N-Out actually is. A standard Flying Dutchman consists of two slices of melted American cheese placed between two hot, freshly cooked beef patties. No bun, no vegetables, no spread. It is the epitome of simplicity and a dream come true for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets who still want to enjoy a fast-food treat. The name comes from In-N-Out's "secret menu," a collection of unofficial items popular among fans.
The Standard Flying Dutchman: Carbs at a Glance
The most commonly cited nutritional information for a standard In-N-Out Flying Dutchman indicates it contains only 2 grams of total carbohydrates and 2 grams of net carbs. This tiny number comes almost exclusively from the trace carbs in the beef patties and cheese. This makes it an ideal, protein-packed meal for those strictly monitoring their carb intake. The key to maintaining this low number is ordering the item plain, without any additions.
How Add-ons Affect Your Carb Count
While the base Flying Dutchman is minimalist, many people prefer to customize their order. Be mindful that any additions will significantly alter the carb and calorie totals. The following is a breakdown of common additions and how they change the nutritional profile:
- Grilled Onions: A popular choice for a burst of flavor, some estimates suggest adding grilled onions can increase the carb count to around 5 grams. The caramelization process of the onions contributes natural sugars, adding to the total. If you choose this modification, request it as a "Flying Dutchman with grilled onions."
- Animal Style: For many, the ultimate In-N-Out experience is the Animal Style modification, which includes chopped grilled onions, extra Thousand Island-style spread, and pickles. A single packet of In-N-Out's spread can add 80 calories and 9 grams of fat, while pickles and onions add even more to the total carbohydrates. An Animal Style Flying Dutchman will have a much higher carb count than the standard version, though it will still likely be lower than a traditional bunned burger.
- Lettuce Wrap: Some low-carb fans opt for an "Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman" or a "Protein Style" burger, where large pieces of grilled onion or lettuce act as the bun, respectively. While a lettuce wrap adds very few carbs, some homemade versions with sauces can raise the carb count.
Comparison: Flying Dutchman vs. Other In-N-Out Options
To put the Flying Dutchman's nutritional value in perspective, here is a comparison with other popular In-N-Out menu items. This table clearly illustrates why the Flying Dutchman is a prime candidate for those on low-carb diets.
| Item | Total Carbs (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Total Fat (g) | Calories | Diet Friendly | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying Dutchman (Standard) | ~2 | ~2 | ~30 | ~28 | ~380 | Keto, Low-Carb | Two patties and two slices of cheese, no bun. |
| Cheeseburger | ~39 | ~37 | ~19 | ~15 | ~370 | Standard Diet | Includes bun, spread, and veggies. |
| Protein Style Burger | ~12 | ~10 | ~30 | ~32 | ~450 | Keto, Low-Carb | Bun replaced with lettuce, comes with spread. |
| Animal Style Fries | ~54 | ~51 | ~67 | ~74 | ~1155 | Standard Diet | Fries with cheese, spread, and grilled onions. |
Note: Nutritional information can vary slightly based on specific preparation and serving size.
Key Considerations for a Low-Carb Diet
For those on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, the Flying Dutchman offers an excellent way to get a satisfying, protein-rich meal without derailing dietary goals. However, it's not a calorie-free pass. With nearly 30 grams of fat and 380 calories, it's a dense and filling snack. When adding sauces or onions, the calorie count and macros will increase, so moderation is key. The simplest way to enjoy it is to stick to the basic two-patty, two-cheese formula. For those who can handle a few extra carbs, adding grilled onions is a flavorful compromise that still keeps the meal well within low-carb limits.
Conclusion
The standard Flying Dutchman from In-N-Out is a significantly low-carb fast-food option, containing only about 2 grams of carbohydrates. This is achieved by removing the bun and any standard toppings. While additions like grilled onions and "Animal Style" toppings can increase the carb and calorie counts, this secret menu item remains an extremely flexible and satisfying choice for individuals following ketogenic or low-carb diets. To ensure the lowest possible carb count, order the base item and be specific about any desired modifications. The Flying Dutchman stands out as a testament to the fact that fast food can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs, proving that a little creativity goes a long way. More information can be found on In-N-Out's website regarding their standard nutritional information.
