Deciphering the 'Protein Style' Secret Menu
For decades, In-N-Out has been known for its high-quality, fresh ingredients and its unofficial 'secret menu.' Among the most popular hidden items is the 'protein style' burger, a game-changer for those watching their carb intake or avoiding gluten. Essentially, opting for a burger 'protein style' means replacing the toasted white flour bun with two crisp, hand-leafed lettuce leaves. This simple substitution completely transforms the nutritional profile of your meal, making it a viable option for various dietary needs, including keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets. The lettuce wrap effectively holds all the traditional burger fixings—including the beef patty, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and signature spread—without the added carbs.
How to Order Your In-N-Out Burger 'Protein Style'
Ordering a 'protein style' burger is straightforward, even though it is not listed on the main menu. The staff at In-N-Out are well-versed in these customizations. To get your bun-less burger, simply follow these steps:
- State your base order: Tell the cashier which burger you want, such as a 'cheeseburger,' 'Double-Double,' or 'hamburger'.
- Add the magic phrase: Follow your order with the words "protein style".
- Customize further: You can still add other popular modifications, such as 'Animal Style' (extra spread, grilled onions, mustard fried patty), to your protein style burger.
- Consider a fork and knife: The lettuce wrap, while sturdy, can be a bit messy. Some people prefer to eat it with utensils for a cleaner experience.
Nutritional Comparison: Protein Style vs. Standard Burger
For those on a diet, understanding the macronutrient impact is crucial. The removal of the bun significantly reduces calories and carbs, though the fat and protein content largely remain due to the meat, cheese, and spread. Here is a comparison of the Double-Double, illustrating the nutritional difference.
| Nutrient | Standard Double-Double | Protein Style Double-Double |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~610 kcal | ~520 kcal |
| Total Carbs | ~41 g | ~11 g |
| Protein | ~34 g | ~33 g |
| Fat | ~34 g | ~39 g |
| Sodium | ~1660 mg | ~1160 mg |
As the table shows, the 'protein style' option substantially cuts the carbohydrate count and reduces overall calories and sodium. The protein content remains high, making it a satiating and muscle-supporting meal. It's worth noting the fat content increases slightly in the protein style version, partly due to how the nutrition is calculated with the spread and other components when the bun is removed.
Beyond the Bun: Health Benefits and Considerations
The appeal of ordering 'protein style' goes beyond just a fast-food hack; it offers several health and dietary advantages:
- Lower Carbohydrate Intake: For those on low-carb diets like keto or Atkins, removing the bun is a simple way to enjoy a classic burger without the high glycemic impact of refined flour.
- Gluten-Free Option: Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can safely enjoy an In-N-Out burger by ordering it 'protein style,' as it completely eliminates the gluten-containing bun.
- Increased Satiety: The high protein and fat content, without the carb-heavy bun, can help you feel fuller for longer. Protein is known to increase feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
- Reduced Calories: While still a fast-food meal, the calorie savings from eliminating the bun can add up, helping those managing their calorie intake. For a single-patty burger, the calorie reduction is even more dramatic.
However, it's not a perfect health food. The overall fat content, especially saturated fat from the meat and cheese, can still be high. Moderation is key, particularly for those with heart health concerns. You can further reduce calories and fat by ordering with no cheese or spread, though this will significantly alter the flavor.
Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Mindful Fast-Food Dining
In-N-Out's 'protein style' option is a testament to how small changes can have a significant impact on the nutritional value of a meal. By simply replacing the bun with a fresh lettuce wrap, diners can enjoy a tasty, low-carb, and gluten-free burger. This modification allows those on specific diets to participate in the fast-food experience without compromising their dietary goals. While it's still best to enjoy fast food in moderation, the 'protein style' hack offers a genuinely clever and accessible way to make a more health-conscious choice on the go. For those following a keto diet, the 'protein style' Double-Double is particularly impressive, offering 33 grams of protein with minimal carbs.
For more information on nutrition at In-N-Out, you can visit the official In-N-Out Burger website.
