Nutritional breakdown of a standard Flying Dutchman
The Flying Dutchman is a notable item on In-N-Out's secret menu, primarily for its simplicity and macronutrient profile. It is served without a bun, which dramatically reduces its carbohydrate content compared to a traditional burger. The primary ingredients, two beef patties and two slices of American cheese, are the source of its high protein and fat content.
A breakdown of the standard Flying Dutchman's nutritional information reveals the following values:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 2g (Net Carbs)
It's important to note that this information can vary based on the exact size of the patties and cheese, but these figures provide a reliable benchmark. The high fat content, nearly as high as the protein, is derived from the beef patties and the processed cheese, which contributes to the item's caloric density. For comparison, a standard double-double on the official menu is much higher in both calories and carbs due to the bun.
Customizing your Flying Dutchman and its impact on macros
One of the benefits of ordering a secret menu item is the ability to customize it further. While the standard item is bun-less, adding certain toppings will change its nutritional profile. Common variations include ordering it with grilled onions, adding spread, or getting it Animal Style.
Here is how common additions can affect the macro count:
- Grilled Onions: This modification adds flavor without significantly altering the macros, especially carbs. Some sources suggest asking for a whole grilled onion can make it easier to handle and add flavor.
- Animal Style: Ordering the Flying Dutchman Animal Style includes the addition of spread, mustard, and extra grilled onions. The spread itself adds calories and fat. One packet of In-N-Out spread contains 80 calories and 9 grams of fat, so this can increase the overall fat content considerably.
- Extra Patties/Cheese: Some people order a "Triple Flying Dutchman" or more, which will directly increase the total protein, fat, and calories. Each additional patty and cheese slice will add to the overall count.
Comparison table: Flying Dutchman vs. other In-N-Out options
To put the Flying Dutchman's nutritional profile into perspective, here's a comparison with other popular In-N-Out menu items, including a standard Double-Double and a Protein Style burger.
| Item | Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying Dutchman | ~380 | ~28 | ~30 | ~2 |
| Double-Double w/Onion | ~610 | ~34 | ~34 | ~41 |
| Double-Double Protein Style | ~450 | ~32 | ~30 | ~12 |
| Cheeseburger Protein Style | ~270 | ~19 | ~16 | ~10 |
| Cheeseburger w/Onion | ~430 | ~21 | ~20 | ~39 |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary slightly.
As the table shows, the Flying Dutchman offers a protein count comparable to a full Double-Double Protein Style, but with significantly fewer carbohydrates, making it a preferable choice for those on very strict low-carb or keto diets. Its fat content is also lower than a traditional Double-Double due to the absence of the bun and spread.
Is the Flying Dutchman a healthy option?
While the Flying Dutchman is a high-protein, low-carb item, classifying it as strictly "healthy" depends on an individual's overall diet and health goals. Its main benefits include:
- High Protein Content: The 30 grams of protein is excellent for muscle building and satiety.
- Very Low Carb: With minimal carbohydrates, it avoids the sugar and refined flour found in a traditional bun.
- Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, this is a safe option.
However, its high fat and sodium content should also be considered. The nearly 30 grams of fat, with a high proportion of saturated fat, and 880 mg of sodium in a single serving can be a concern for some diets. The source of the protein is ground beef, which, while a complete protein, is not considered a lean meat source. Therefore, moderation is key, and it should be viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Conclusion
The Flying Dutchman from In-N-Out contains approximately 30 grams of protein, making it an excellent high-protein, low-carb choice for fast-food lovers. This simple, bun-free secret menu item is a perfect fit for those on keto or other carb-restricted diets. While its high fat and sodium content are worth noting, its customizability and macronutrient profile make it a popular and adaptable option. By comparing it to other items on the menu, it's clear that it offers a distinct advantage for those prioritizing protein and minimizing carbohydrates.
Outbound link: For further detailed In-N-Out nutritional information, including other menu items, visit the official In-N-Out Nutrition Info page.
