The Flying Dutchman, a legendary item from the In-N-Out secret menu, has captivated fast-food enthusiasts with its simple, bunless construction. Consisting of two beef patties and two slices of cheese melted in between, it offers a high-protein, low-carb alternative to traditional burgers. However, for those monitoring their dietary intake, understanding the specific nutritional information is key. Based on a standard 380-calorie estimate for one Flying Dutchman, two of them would contain roughly 760 calories, making it a significant meal.
The Breakdown of Two Flying Dutchmen
While the calorie count of 760 might seem high for some, it's essential to look beyond the total number and examine the macronutrient composition. The nutrition for a single Flying Dutchman, which is essentially a double-patty with double-cheese, comes primarily from fat and protein. When doubled for two orders, the numbers naturally scale up:
- Total Calories: ~760 calories
- Total Fat: ~56g (comprising 28g from each Dutchman)
- Protein: ~60g (comprising 30g from each Dutchman)
- Carbohydrates: ~4g (comprising 2g from each Dutchman, from the cheese and natural beef sugars)
This breakdown reveals why the Flying Dutchman is often a favorite among those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Without the carbohydrate-heavy bun, the meal focuses on protein and fat, which are essential for satiety. However, the high fat and sodium content are important considerations, especially for those with cardiovascular health concerns or who are closely managing their sodium intake.
Customizations and Caloric Impact
One of the appeals of In-N-Out's menu is its customization, and the Flying Dutchman is no exception. However, any additions will alter the final caloric tally. Here are some common customizations and their nutritional impact:
- Animal Style: Ordering the Flying Dutchman Animal Style adds In-N-Out's special spread, mustard grilled onto the patties, and extra chopped grilled onions. A single packet of spread can add 80 calories and 9 grams of fat, so adding spread to two Flying Dutchmen could increase the total calorie count significantly.
- Adding Onions: While grilled onions are a staple for many, adding them typically has a negligible impact on the total calories. They add flavor without a significant caloric increase.
- Extra Cheese: While not standard, adding extra cheese can significantly increase fat and calories. Each additional slice of American cheese will add calories, mainly from fat.
Flying Dutchman vs. Double-Double
To put the Flying Dutchman's nutritional profile into context, it's useful to compare it to a standard In-N-Out Double-Double.
| Nutrient | Two Flying Dutchmen (approx.) | Double-Double (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 760 | 610 |
| Fat | 56g | 34g |
| Saturated Fat | 36g | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 41g |
| Protein | 60g | 34g |
| Sodium | 1760mg | 1660mg |
As the table clearly shows, while two Flying Dutchmen have a higher total calorie and fat count than a single Double-Double, the carbohydrate count is dramatically lower. Conversely, the Double-Double, while lower in fat and overall calories, contains a significant amount of carbohydrates from the bun. The choice between the two depends heavily on individual dietary goals—low-carb versus overall calorie management.
Incorporating the Flying Dutchman into Your Diet
For those who enjoy the Flying Dutchman, it's possible to include it as part of a balanced diet through moderation and smart planning. Because of its high fat and protein content, it's a filling meal that can be satisfying on its own, potentially requiring fewer other food items to feel full. However, its high sodium count should be noted for those with high blood pressure.
- Meal Planning: Plan your other meals and snacks for the day to be lower in fat and sodium to balance out the nutritional impact of the Flying Dutchman. A meal consisting of two Flying Dutchmen is high in calories and should be accounted for appropriately within your daily caloric budget.
- Portion Control: Consider ordering just one Flying Dutchman instead of two, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. One serving provides a solid amount of protein and is still a flavorful, low-carb option.
- Add Vegetables: While the classic recipe is bunless and without toppings, consider adding extra grilled onions or ordering a side salad to add fiber and nutrients to your meal, creating a more balanced plate.
Conclusion
In summary, two Flying Dutchman burgers contain approximately 760 calories, with a high concentration of fat and protein and very few carbohydrates. This makes it a popular and satisfying choice for individuals on a low-carb diet. However, for those concerned about overall calorie, fat, or sodium intake, it's crucial to be mindful of its content, especially when adding extras like Animal Style spread. By understanding the nutritional profile and making informed choices about portion size and customizations, the Flying Dutchman can be enjoyed as part of a varied and balanced eating plan. For precise nutrition information on other menu items, refer to In-N-Out's official nutrition information page.
