In-N-Out Protein Style Burger Calories, Carbs, and Nutrition

Protein Style In-N-Out Burger: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits

In-N-Out Burger's protein style burger has become a popular "secret" order for health-conscious customers craving their famous taste while avoiding the carbs. But just how many calories are actually in an In-N-Out protein style burger? And is it truly a healthier option than the classic burger? Let's take a closer look at this famous fast food creation.

What is a Protein Style Burger?

A protein style burger from In-N-Out is one of their burgers ordered without the bun and wrapped in lettuce leaves instead. Typically, protein style burgers are ordered with the following modifications:

• Beef patty
• Cheese slice
• Spread sauce
• Served in lettuce leaves instead of a bun
• Usually ordered with onions and tomato

This allows you to enjoy the burger's flavors while limiting the refined carbohydrates of the bun.

Protein Style In-N-Out Burger Calorie Count

Here are the calorie counts for In-N-Out's protein style burgers:

• Protein Style Hamburger: 240 calories
• Protein Style Cheeseburger: 310 calories
• Protein Style Double-Double: 450 calories

For comparison, here are the calorie counts for In-N-Out's regular bunned burgers:

• Hamburger: 240 calories
• Cheeseburger: 350 calories
• Double-Double: 490 calories

As you can see, ordering protein style reduces the calories by 40-60 compared to the regular versions, simply by removing the bun.

Benefits of a Protein Style Burger

Some of the potential benefits of choosing a protein style In-N-Out burger include:

• Fewer overall calories
• Less carbohydrates and sugars
• More protein and fat for satiety
• Nutrients from fresh lettuce
• Avoiding insulin spike and crash from bun
• Keeps you in ketosis on low-carb/keto diets

The lettuce wrap helps lower the overall glycemic load, leading to more stable energy levels after eating.

Nutrition Facts for Protein Style Burgers

Here is an overview of the nutrition facts for a protein style double-double burger from In-N-Out:

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 930mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 5g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 44g

As you can see, the macros are very high in protein and fat compared to a typical burger with a refined carbohydrate-rich bun.

Comparing Protein Style to a Bun Burger

Let's compare a protein style double-double to an original double-double burger:

• Carbs: Protein style has 5g vs. 33g in original
• Sugar: Protein style has 3g vs. 6g in original
• Fat: Protein style has 27g vs. 23g in original
• Protein: Protein style has 44g vs. 28g in original
• Fiber: Protein style has 2g vs. 1g in original

Ordering protein style significantly reduces the carbohydrates, sugar, and calories while increasing the protein and fiber. This leads to longer lasting fullness and energy.

Protein Style Burger vs. Lettuce Wrap at Other Chains

Many other fast food chains now offer lettuce wrapped burgers as well. Here's how In-N-Out's protein style burgers compare calorie-wise to lettuce wraps at other popular spots:

• In-N-Out Double-Double Protein Style: 450 calories
• McDonald's Quarter Pounder Lettuce Wrap: 280 calories
• Wendy's Baconator Lettuce Wrap: 640 calories
• Burger King Whopper Jr. Lettuce Wrap: 570 calories
• Carl's Jr. Guacamole Bacon Lettuce Wrap: 710 calories

In-N-Out's protein style burgers have moderate calorie counts compared to competitors. Just watch out for sauces and larger patty sizes which can lead to higher calories.

Tips for Ordering a Protein Style Burger

Here are some useful tips for ordering a protein style burger at In-N-Out:

• Stick to 1-2 patties to limit calorie intake.
• Get it "mustard grilled" to boost flavor without extra calories.
• Add extra veggies like tomato, onion, lettuce for more nutrients.
• Skip the spread sauce or get it on the side to control calories.
• Must order with lettuce wrap - no exceptions!
• Check carb counts if getting shakes or fries on the side.

Ask for any special instructions when you order to avoid mix-ups. Some locations make lettuce wraps differently, so inquire when you order to get exactly what you want.

Healthiest Ways to Customize a Protein Style Burger

To make your In-N-Out protein style burger even healthier, try these customizations:

• Add extra tomato, lettuce, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms.
• Get mustard grilled patties for flavor over sauces.
• Choose lowest carb options: 1 patty, 1 cheese slice, no spread sauce.
• Ditch the fries and soda. Opt for water and side salad instead.
• Go bunless on other menu items like grilled chicken sandwiches too.

Focusing on whole food ingredients and avoiding excess sauces or sugary drinks keeps your protein style burger light. But don't be afraid to enjoy the occasional shake!

Potential Downsides of Protein Style Burgers

While protein style burgers have some benefits over regular buns, potential drawbacks include:

• Higher in saturated fat and sodium than homemade burger
• Lacks nutrients like whole grains from bun
• Less satisfying texture than a bun for some
• Lettuce wrap prone to slipping and creating a mess
• Special ordering can complicate quick fast food experience

Those without dietary restrictions that exclude buns may find a traditional bun burger more enjoyable and convenient.

The Bottom Line on In-N-Out Protein Style

Ordering an In-N-Out burger protein style allows you to enjoy the classic taste while limiting refined carb intake. Ditching the bun reduces calories, carbohydrates, and blood sugar spikes. While not necessarily the healthiest meal choice, going protein style makes for a more balanced fast food option if you are craving an In-N-Out burger. Focus on reasonable portion sizes, extra veggies, and skipping sugary drinks and fries for the best nutritional value. For those monitoring their carb intake, the protein style preparation lets you stay on track while joining friends for a fast food run.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.