The In-N-Out Double-Double Protein Style has become legendary, not just as a delicious burger, but as the ultimate fast-food hack for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. As of December 2025, the official and most commonly cited nutritional data reveals that this burger, which swaps the traditional bun for crisp lettuce wraps, contains approximately 520 calories.
This number is a critical piece of information for calorie counters and macro trackers, but the true story of the Protein Style Double-Double lies in its macronutrient breakdown. It’s a high-fat, high-protein powerhouse that drastically reduces the carbohydrate count, making it a staple for those looking to enjoy the classic In-N-Out experience without the guilt of a traditional bun.
The Double-Double Protein Style: Full Nutritional Breakdown
The "Protein Style" modification is a simple yet revolutionary change offered on In-N-Out's not-so-secret menu. By replacing the high-carb, standard white bun with large, fresh leaves of hand-leafed lettuce, the burger’s nutritional profile shifts dramatically. The base build includes two 100% beef patties, two slices of American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and the house-made spread, with or without onion.
Here is the detailed nutritional profile for one standard Double-Double, Protein Style (with spread and onion included):
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 39 grams
- Saturated Fat: 17 grams
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
- Sodium: 1080 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Net Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Protein: 33 grams
The macronutrient breakdown is approximately 67% Fat, 25% Protein, and 8% Carbs. This ratio is what makes it a perfect fit for a ketogenic diet, which prioritizes high fat and low net carbs.
Fact 1: The Bun Swap Saves You Over 40% of the Carbs
The most significant nutritional benefit of ordering "Protein Style" is the massive reduction in carbohydrates. A standard Double-Double with the bun contains approximately 39 grams of total carbohydrates. By contrast, the Protein Style version contains just 11 grams of total carbs, resulting in a net carb count of only 8 grams.
This simple swap is the reason the burger has become a low-carb icon. The 28-gram difference in total carbs is the equivalent of nearly two full days' worth of carbs for someone strictly following the keto diet. It allows you to maintain ketosis while still enjoying a satisfying, flavorful fast-food meal.
Fact 2: Animal Style Doesn't Drastically Change the Calories
A common question among In-N-Out aficionados is whether ordering the Protein Style Double-Double "Animal Style" changes the nutritional profile. "Animal Style" includes mustard grilled into the beef patties, extra spread, and grilled onions.
Surprisingly, the calorie count for a Double-Double Protein Style with Animal Style modifications remains around 520 calories. This is because the standard Protein Style burger already includes the house spread, and the mustard grilling and extra grilled onions only add a negligible amount of fat and carbs, with some sources listing the nutrition as identical. The biggest change is the flavor profile, which becomes tangier and richer.
However, be aware that some older or less-cited nutritional calculators may list a higher number (up to 706 calories). For the most accurate tracking, you should assume the core 520 calories and only track the extra spread if you explicitly ask for *heavy* extra spread, which can add a few grams of fat and a small amount of sugar/carbs.
Fact 3: The Biggest Calorie Culprit is the Spread
While the lettuce wrap is the hero of the Protein Style burger, the biggest fat and calorie contributor is the famous In-N-Out Spread. This creamy, thousand-island-style sauce is delicious but is the primary source of the burger's 39 grams of fat.
For those looking to shave off even more calories and fat, you can employ the following secret menu hacks:
- Order "No Spread": Asking for "no spread" and substituting it with packets of mustard, which is virtually calorie-free, can significantly drop the fat and calorie count. This simple change can reduce the total calories to approximately 450.
- Order "Mustard Only": This is a popular option that replaces the spread entirely, giving you a sharp, flavorful kick without the added fat and calories.
- Order a "Flying Dutchman": For the absolute lowest-carb option, the Flying Dutchman is a "secret menu" item that consists of just two beef patties and two slices of cheese, with no lettuce, tomato, or spread. This option is pure fat and protein, making it the perfect keto choice with only around 350 calories and 0-1g net carbs.
Fact 4: It’s a Protein Powerhouse for Fitness Goals
With 33 grams of high-quality protein, the Double-Double Protein Style is an excellent choice for individuals focused on fitness, muscle building, or simply increasing their daily protein intake. Protein is essential for satiety and muscle repair, making this burger a much more substantial and beneficial meal than many other fast-food alternatives.
The combination of high protein and low net carbs ensures that you feel full for longer, which is a key factor in successful weight management and maintaining a caloric deficit. It is a highly satisfying meal that doesn't compromise your dietary goals.
Fact 5: Tips for Ordering the Healthiest Protein Style Burger
To maximize the health benefits and minimize the calorie and sodium intake, here are the top ordering tips for the Double-Double Protein Style:
- Go "No Spread": As mentioned, this is the single best way to cut calories and fat.
- Request Extra Veggies: Ask for extra lettuce and tomato. The crispness of the lettuce is what replaces the bun, so having more of it ensures a better, less messy eating experience.
- Limit the Salt: The 1080 mg of sodium is quite high (about 47% of the recommended daily intake). If you are sensitive to sodium, consider asking for "no salt" on the patties.
- Avoid the Fries and Shakes: This might seem obvious, but pairing the Protein Style with a high-carb item like French Fries (370 calories, 46g carbs) or a Chocolate Shake (590 calories, 70g carbs) completely defeats the purpose of the low-carb hack.
The Double-Double Protein Style is not just a trend; it’s a smart, strategic way to enjoy one of America's favorite burgers while adhering to modern dietary principles like low-carb and keto. At 520 calories and just 8 net carbs, it remains one of the best "secret menu" items in the fast-food world.
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