Breakdown of the Flying Dutchman's Nutrition
To understand the protein content of an In-N-Out Flying Dutchman, it's essential to look at its core components. The dish is famously simple, consisting of two beef patties and two slices of cheese. This minimal ingredient list is what keeps the carbohydrate count low and the protein content high. A standard Flying Dutchman contains roughly 380 calories and 30 grams of protein, with the bulk of those calories coming from fat.
The Role of Beef and Cheese
The two 100% pure beef patties are the primary source of protein in this meal. Beef is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. The two slices of American cheese add both protein and fat, contributing to the overall macro profile. The combination provides a satisfying and satiating meal without the carbohydrates from a traditional bun.
Customizing Your Flying Dutchman
While the basic Flying Dutchman has a consistent nutrition profile, customers can customize it, which affects the final numbers. The most common addition is grilled onions, which adds flavor but minimal calories or macros. Ordering it "Animal Style" is another popular choice, which includes a mustard-cooked patty, extra sauce, and chopped grilled onions. The added spread significantly increases the fat and calorie count, so those tracking macros should be mindful of this change.
Nutritional Comparison: Flying Dutchman vs. Other Items
Here is a comparison of the Flying Dutchman's core macronutrients with other popular In-N-Out items to highlight its unique profile.
| Menu Item | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Calories | Diet Friendly | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying Dutchman | ~30 | ~28 | ~2 | ~380 | Low-Carb / Keto | Bun-less, focused on protein and fat. |
| Double-Double (Protein Style) | ~33 | ~32 | ~12 | ~450 | Low-Carb / Keto | Similar to Flying Dutchman, but uses lettuce instead of a bun. |
| Cheeseburger | ~22 | ~27 | ~39 | ~480 | N/A | Contains a bun and spread, significantly increasing carbs. |
| Hamburger | ~20 | ~21 | ~37 | ~390 | N/A | Lower protein and higher carbs than the Dutchman due to the bun. |
As the table shows, the Flying Dutchman provides a comparable amount of protein to the Double-Double Protein Style but with slightly less fat and overall calories. It far surpasses the standard Hamburger and Cheeseburger in protein density relative to its carbohydrate content, making it a superior choice for specific dietary goals. For context, a standard cheeseburger has about 22 grams of protein and significantly more carbs from the bun.
Frequently Overlooked Nutritional Information
One aspect often missed when calculating the Flying Dutchman's nutritional value is the sodium content. A single serving can contain around 880 mg of sodium, which is a significant portion of the recommended daily intake. While the protein count is impressive, it is important to balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, especially for those with blood pressure concerns.
Understanding the "Secret Menu"
In-N-Out's "secret menu" items, including the Flying Dutchman, are not officially listed on their main menu board, but are widely known and can be ordered by name. The lack of official documentation can sometimes lead to slight variations in nutritional information across different sources. However, relying on the core ingredients of two patties and two cheese slices provides a reliable estimate. Many diners appreciate the flexibility of this menu and the ability to customize their order to fit specific dietary needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the In-N-Out Flying Dutchman is a high-protein, low-carb option that provides approximately 30 grams of protein per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for those following keto or low-carb diets who want a quick, satisfying meal. Its simple construction of two beef patties and two cheese slices ensures the protein comes from high-quality sources, while avoiding the added carbohydrates of a bun. While the protein content is a significant draw, it is important to be mindful of its fat and sodium content, especially with added customizations like "Animal Style". For anyone seeking a lean, protein-packed fast food meal, the Flying Dutchman offers a straightforward solution. For more details on macronutrients, you can consult a nutrition database like MyNetDiary.
