5 Shocking Secrets And Hacks Behind In-N-Out's Viral 'Flying Dutchman' Burger
As of December 21, 2025, the culinary world continues to be captivated by the enduring simplicity and genius of the In-N-Out “Flying Dutchman.” This legendary item, which has been a staple of the fast-food chain’s not-so-secret menu for decades, isn't a complex creation; it is a primal, pure expression of a cheeseburger, stripped down to its absolute essentials. Yet, in the age of viral food trends, the Flying Dutchman has enjoyed a massive resurgence in popularity, primarily due to a clever, low-carb hack that has taken social media by storm: the "Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman."
Far from being a complicated recipe, the Flying Dutchman is a masterclass in minimalism, a stark contrast to the chain's famous Double-Double. It has become a cult favorite for those following keto, low-carb, or simply seeking a high-protein indulgence. This guide will dive deep into the origins, the exact ingredients, the critical ordering hacks, and the viral variations that make this simple two-patty, two-cheese stack the most talked-about item on the entire In-N-Out menu.
The Simple Truth: What Exactly is the In-N-Out Flying Dutchman?
The Flying Dutchman is perhaps the most minimalist item on the entire In-N-Out secret menu.
Its core composition is straightforward: two slices of American cheese melted between two signature In-N-Out beef patties. That’s it. There are no buns, no lettuce, no tomato, and no spread—just high-quality meat and cheese.
This "inside-out" cheeseburger is a favorite among purists who want to savor the quality of the fresh, never-frozen beef and the melted cheese without the distraction of bread or vegetables.
The name itself, "Flying Dutchman," is a nod to the mystery and folklore surrounding the legendary ghost ship. It suggests something elusive, not officially listed on the main menu board, yet known by all who frequent the establishment.
Core Ingredients (The Original):
- Two fresh, 100% beef patties.
- Two slices of melted American cheese.
Ordering the Flying Dutchman is surprisingly easy, as In-N-Out staff are well-versed in the secret menu language. You simply ask for a "Flying Dutchman."
The Viral Sensation: Mastering the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman Hack
While the original Flying Dutchman is just meat and cheese, a new, highly popular variation has recently taken over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram: the Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman.
This hack elevates the simple burger by replacing the traditional bun with two thick slices of whole, grilled white onion.
The grilled onions are caramelized, providing a sweet, savory, and slightly crunchy texture that perfectly complements the salty beef and cheese. It’s a game-changer for flavor and texture, turning the minimalist snack into a true, hand-held "burger."
To order this viral phenomenon, you must be specific. Simply asking for a "Flying Dutchman" might only get you the original meat-and-cheese stack. You need to request the "Onion-Wrapped Flying Dutchman" or specifically ask for "grilled onions instead of a bun."
The Onion-Wrapped variant is considered a "newer" secret menu item that has quickly grown in popularity, rivaling even the famous Animal Style burger.
Many fans of this hack also add extra components to complete the experience, which you may have to request on the side:
- Mustard: A squirt of yellow mustard, often cooked onto the patty.
- Spread: A side of In-N-Out's signature Thousand Island-style spread.
- Pickles: Dill pickle slices for a tangy crunch.
Advanced Ordering: Flying Dutchman 'Animal Style' and Other Pro Tips
The world of In-N-Out hacks extends far beyond the basic Onion-Wrapped version. For seasoned veterans, combining the Flying Dutchman with other secret menu modifiers opens up a new level of customization.
The Animal Style Dutchman
The most popular modification is ordering the Flying Dutchman "Animal Style."
When you order a Flying Dutchman Animal Style, the following changes are made:
- The patties are cooked with mustard.
- A scoop of diced, grilled onions is placed directly on top of the cheese slices.
- The famous In-N-Out spread and pickles are typically served on the side, allowing you to dress the burger yourself.
This modification adds a layer of rich, caramelized flavor and tanginess that is highly addictive. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves the full Animal Style experience but wants to skip the bun.
Protein Style vs. Flying Dutchman
It’s important to understand the difference between the Flying Dutchman and the Protein Style burger.
- Protein Style: The standard burger (e.g., Cheeseburger, Double-Double) wrapped in large, crisp iceberg lettuce leaves instead of a bun. This includes all the standard toppings: spread, tomato, and onion.
- Flying Dutchman: Only meat and cheese, with no lettuce or other toppings unless specifically requested.
The Flying Dutchman is the choice for maximum beef and cheese flavor, while Protein Style is for those who want a low-carb option that still tastes like a traditional burger.
Cost and Ordering Policy Updates (2025 Context)
The Flying Dutchman is a budget-friendly option, often priced similarly to a standard cheeseburger, but always check your local In-N-Out for current pricing.
It is worth noting that In-N-Out has occasionally adjusted its policies to prevent customers from trying to "hack" the menu for a lower price. For example, some reports indicate that a past hack used to pay less for the Flying Dutchman has been closed off by a new company policy, ensuring all items are rung up correctly.
To ensure a smooth ordering experience, especially when requesting the Onion-Wrapped or Animal Style variations, always be polite, clear, and specific with your server. The In-N-Out team works hard to accommodate these special requests, which often require extra steps in the kitchen.
Whether you're a low-carb enthusiast or a fast-food purist, the Flying Dutchman—especially in its viral Onion-Wrapped form—is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients. It remains a legendary part of the In-N-Out experience, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.
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