What Exactly Is a Flying Dutchman?
Before diving into the carb count, it's important to understand the base item. The Flying Dutchman is a popular "secret menu" item from the American fast-food chain, In-N-Out Burger. Unlike a traditional burger, the Flying Dutchman eliminates the high-carb bun entirely. It consists of just two beef patties with two slices of American cheese melted between them. This simple, bun-less construction is the key to its extremely low carbohydrate content, making it a favorite for those on ketogenic or other low-carb diets.
The Base Carb Count of the Standard Flying Dutchman
A basic Flying Dutchman, containing only the meat and cheese, is exceptionally low in carbohydrates because beef and cheese naturally contain minimal to no carbs. According to one nutrition tracking source, a single serving contains 2 grams of net carbs. This number can be close to zero depending on how it's prepared and the precise amount of ingredients. The carbohydrates that are present primarily come from the processing of the cheese. This low count makes the base Flying Dutchman a staple for many looking for a convenient, high-fat, and high-protein meal on the go.
Carb Breakdown of Flying Dutchman Variations
While the standard version is straightforward, the carb count changes significantly with various modifications. Two popular variations, in particular, alter the nutritional profile:
The Flying Dutchman Animal Style
Ordering a Flying Dutchman "Animal Style" adds a mustard-fried patty, pickles, and the chain's famous spread. The spread, similar to Thousand Island dressing, is heavy on carbs and adds significantly to the total count. One packet of In-N-Out spread contains approximately 2 grams of net carbs, and a generous portion on an Animal Style burger could add considerably more. For strict keto followers, skipping the spread is crucial.
The Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman
Another popular modification is the onion-wrapped version, where thick slices of grilled onions are used in place of the bun. While onions are a vegetable, they contain natural sugars and therefore have a higher carb count than the pure meat and cheese base. The addition of caramelized onions, with their extra sweetness from the grilling process, adds a small but notable amount of carbs that can add up depending on portion size.
Comparison Table: Carbs in Flying Dutchman Options
| Flying Dutchman Variation | Estimated Calories | Estimated Protein | Estimated Fat | Estimated Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (Meat & Cheese) | 380 kcal | 30g | 28g | 2g |
| Animal Style (with spread) | ~400-480 kcal | 30g | ~30-40g | ~4-8g (depends on spread) |
| Onion-Wrapped | 380+ kcal | 30g | 28g | 2+ g (depends on onion amount) |
How to Order the Lowest Carb Flying Dutchman
To ensure your meal stays as low-carb as possible, follow these simple ordering tips:
- Stick to the basics: Order the standard Flying Dutchman with just the two beef patties and two slices of cheese.
- Avoid the spread: The most significant carb addition comes from the Thousand Island-style spread, so request that it be left off entirely.
- Be mindful of onions: If you're very strict with your carb intake, avoid the grilled onions as a bun or topping, as they add extra carbs.
- Add other zero-carb toppings: Top your burger with mustard and pickles, which contain negligible carbs, for added flavor.
- Consider a side salad: Instead of fries, opt for a side salad with a low-carb dressing to round out your meal. Note that In-N-Out does not offer side salads.
Is a Flying Dutchman Keto-Friendly?
For those on a ketogenic diet, the Flying Dutchman is a very popular and widely recommended fast-food option. The low net carb count, combined with high protein and fat, aligns perfectly with the macronutrient goals of the keto diet. The key, as mentioned, is to avoid high-carb additions like the Animal Style spread. Its popularity is evident in online keto communities, where it's frequently discussed as a safe and delicious choice. For more on ordering keto-friendly fast food, you can check out guides from health-conscious sites like Hip2Keto.
Conclusion
The simple answer to how many carbs are in a Flying Dutchman is: very few. The standard version from In-N-Out with just meat and cheese contains an impressively low amount, making it an ideal choice for low-carb and keto diets. However, customers should be aware that adding certain toppings, especially the Animal Style spread, will increase the carbohydrate count. By ordering the base item and being strategic with additions, you can enjoy a satisfying and flavorful burger without derailing your dietary goals.
