Understanding In-N-Out: How many grams of protein are in a 3x3 In-N-Out burger?

According to reputable nutrition databases, a classic 3x3 In-N-Out burger with a bun contains an impressive 52 grams of protein. This makes the iconic 'secret menu' item a powerful protein source, though it comes with a considerable amount of fat and calories. The generous protein count comes primarily from the three all-beef patties and three slices of American cheese that define this massive sandwich.

Quick Summary

A standard 3x3 In-N-Out burger contains 52g of protein, contributing significantly to daily intake. The high-protein value comes from three beef patties and three slices of cheese. The nutrition facts vary with different order modifications like 'Protein Style' or 'Animal Style.'

Key Points

• 52 Grams of Protein: A standard 3x3 In-N-Out burger provides 52g of protein, primarily from the beef patties and cheese.

• Protein Style Variation: Choosing 'Protein Style' (lettuce wrap) lowers the protein content to 44-48g, while also significantly reducing carbs and calories.

• Animal Style Protein: An 'Animal Style' 3x3 contains slightly more protein at approximately 53g, due to the additional ingredients.

• High Calories and Fat: The 3x3 is a calorically dense meal and should be considered within the context of its overall high-fat and high-sodium profile.

• Customization for Macros: You can modify your 3x3 order to better align with your dietary goals by swapping the bun for lettuce or adjusting the spread.

The Classic 3x3 Nutritional Breakdown

The 3x3 is a staple of In-N-Out's 'not-so-secret' menu, featuring three beef patties, three slices of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and the signature spread, all served on a toasted bun with or without onions. While it is a high-calorie, high-fat menu item, it is also a powerhouse of protein. The beef patties are the primary source, but the cheese also adds a notable amount of protein. In addition to protein, the 3x3 offers substantial calories and fat, as is typical for most fast-food burgers of this size.

Where Does the Protein Come From?

The bulk of the protein in a 3x3 comes from the three beef patties. In-N-Out is known for its high-quality beef, and each patty provides a solid protein contribution. The three slices of American cheese also play a significant role, adding to the overall protein count. While the bun, spread, and vegetables provide other nutrients, their protein content is minimal compared to the meat and cheese. This combination of ingredients is what makes the 3x3 a high-protein choice.

Customizing Your 3x3 Order

For those looking to adjust their macros, In-N-Out offers several customizable options. The most popular modification is ordering 'Protein Style,' which replaces the bun with a lettuce wrap. This can significantly reduce both carbohydrates and calories while retaining a high level of protein. Another option is the 'Animal Style' modification, which adds mustard cooked into the patties, extra spread, and grilled onions. An Animal Style 3x3 may have a slightly different protein count due to the additions, and typically has higher fat and calories.

Comparison of 3x3 Variations

Here is a quick look at how the protein content of different In-N-Out burgers stacks up:

Burger Type	Protein Content	Notes
3x3 Standard	52g	With bun, spread, lettuce, and tomato.
3x3 Protein Style	44-48g	Lettuce wrap replaces bun, reducing carbs and slightly lowering protein.
3x3 Animal Style	~53g	Includes extra spread, grilled onions, and mustard.
Double-Double Standard	37g	Two patties and two slices of cheese.
Cheeseburger Standard	22g	One patty and one slice of cheese.

List of Ingredients Contributing to 3x3 Protein

• Three all-beef patties: The most significant protein source in the burger.
• Three slices of American cheese: Each slice adds a few grams of protein.
• Toasted bun: Contains a small amount of protein from the wheat flour.
• Lettuce and Tomato: Contribute very little protein but add fiber and vitamins.

Nutritional Context and Considerations

While the 52 grams of protein in a standard 3x3 is substantial and can help meet daily protein requirements, it is essential to view this within the context of its entire nutritional profile. The burger also contains high levels of fat, saturated fat, and sodium. For individuals monitoring their intake for health reasons, such as managing cholesterol or blood pressure, these factors are important to consider. Opting for a 'Protein Style' version or requesting modifications like less spread can help manage some of these values, without sacrificing too much protein. Ultimately, how a 3x3 fits into a diet depends on individual dietary goals and overall eating habits. It can be a great, high-protein treat for some, while others may prefer more balanced meals.

Conclusion

In summary, a standard 3x3 In-N-Out burger delivers a robust 52 grams of protein, primarily sourced from its three beef patties and three cheese slices. This makes it a serious contender for a high-protein fast-food meal. However, this comes with a full nutritional profile that includes high fat and sodium. Diners with specific dietary needs can make modifications, such as choosing 'Protein Style' with a lettuce wrap, to adjust their macronutrient intake. For those seeking a significant protein boost in a single meal, the 3x3 is a strong option, as long as it's balanced with other dietary considerations. To view the official nutrition information for all their products, check the In-N-Out website at https://www.in-n-out.com/menu/nutrition-info.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein is in the meat patty of a 3x3 burger?

While In-N-Out does not provide a specific breakdown per patty, based on a single cheeseburger having 22g of protein (with one patty and one cheese slice), and a Double-Double having 37g (with two patties and two cheese slices), each patty contributes a significant portion of the total protein.

Does ordering a 'Protein Style' 3x3 change the amount of protein?

Yes, ordering a 'Protein Style' 3x3, which replaces the bun with a lettuce wrap, slightly reduces the protein content to around 44-48g, though it also significantly cuts calories and carbs.

How do the protein and calories of a 3x3 compare to a Double-Double?

A standard 3x3 has 52g of protein and 860 calories, while a standard Double-Double has 37g of protein and 670 calories. The 3x3 offers a substantial protein increase for more calories.

Is the protein content different for an 'Animal Style' 3x3?

Yes, an 'Animal Style' 3x3, which adds mustard cooked into the patties, extra spread, and grilled onions, contains approximately 53g of protein, a slight increase over the standard version.

What is the primary source of protein in a 3x3?

The primary source of protein in a 3x3 is the three all-beef patties, followed by the three slices of American cheese.

Does the In-N-Out 'spread' add protein to the burger?

The In-N-Out spread, similar to Thousand Island dressing, contains very little, if any, protein. Its primary contributions are fat and flavor.

Is a 3x3 a good protein source for someone on a keto diet?

For those on a ketogenic diet, ordering the 3x3 'Protein Style' (lettuce wrap) is a viable option. It provides a high amount of protein and significantly fewer carbs, aligning better with keto macro goals.