The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in promoting weight loss, improving mental clarity, and supporting overall health. One of the challenges many people face when following a low-carb lifestyle is finding satisfying and delicious meals that fit within their dietary restrictions. Enter the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman , a mouthwatering creation inspired by classic fast-food favorites but tailored to meet the demands of a ketogenic diet.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what makes the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman such a standout dish, how it fits into your low-carb lifestyle, and why it’s become a go-to option for keto enthusiasts. We’ll also provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe so you can recreate this culinary masterpiece at home.
What Is the Keto Diet?
Before diving into the specifics of the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman, let’s briefly review what the keto diet entails. The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate eating plan designed to shift your body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In ketosis, your body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, leading to rapid fat loss and improved energy levels.
Key principles of the keto diet include:
- High Fat Intake : Approximately 70-80% of daily calories come from healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
- Moderate Protein : Protein intake is kept at around 20-25% of total calories to prevent gluconeogenesis (the process where excess protein is converted into glucose).
- Very Low Carbs : Carbohydrate consumption is restricted to just 5-10% of daily calories, typically equating to 20-50 grams of net carbs per day.
By adhering to these guidelines, individuals on the keto diet can enjoy numerous benefits, including reduced hunger cravings, stabilized blood sugar levels, and enhanced cognitive function.
The Inspiration Behind the Flying Dutchman
The term “Flying Dutchman” might sound mysterious, but it actually refers to a legendary burger combination made famous by In-N-Out Burger. Traditionally, the Flying Dutchman consists of two beef patties topped with melted cheese and served without any buns or additional toppings. This minimalist approach allows the rich flavors of the meat and cheese to shine through, making it a favorite among burger purists.
For those following a keto diet, the absence of bread in the Flying Dutchman makes it an ideal base for customization. By adding elements inspired by In-N-Out’s “Animal Style” preparation—such as caramelized onions, special sauce, and pickles—you can elevate the dish while keeping it low-carb and incredibly flavorful.

Why Choose the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman?
1. Perfectly Balanced Macros
One of the primary reasons the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman is so appealing is its macronutrient profile. With minimal carbs and plenty of healthy fats and protein, this dish aligns perfectly with the requirements of a ketogenic diet. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional highlights:
- Fats : The beef patties and cheese provide ample saturated and monounsaturated fats, which are essential for maintaining ketosis.
- Proteins : High-quality protein supports muscle repair and growth while keeping you feeling full longer.
- Carbs : With no bun and only a few low-carb ingredients like onions and pickles, the carb count remains exceptionally low.
2. Flavor Explosion
Despite being simple in concept, the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman packs a punch in terms of taste. The savory beef patties, gooey melted cheese, tangy pickles, and sweet-and-savory caramelized onions create a symphony of flavors that satisfy even the most discerning palate.
3. Customizable Options
Another advantage of this dish is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance:
- Swap out cheddar cheese for Swiss or pepper jack if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use grass-fed beef for a more nutrient-dense option.
4. Quick and Easy Preparation
Unlike some elaborate keto recipes, the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman is quick and straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
How to Make the Perfect Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delectable dish. Follow along to whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 grass-fed beef patties (approximately ¼ pound each)
- 2 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack work well)
- ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar-free ketchup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 dill pickle slices
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter or ghee.
- Once melted, add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Patties
- Season both sides of the beef patties generously with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet used for the onions, increase the heat to medium-high and sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt slightly.
Step 3: Make the Special Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, and sugar-free ketchup (if using). Mix well to create a creamy, tangy sauce reminiscent of In-N-Out’s signature spread.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Place the cooked beef patties on a plate or lettuce leaves (if using).
- Top each patty with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions.
- Drizzle the special sauce over the onions.
- Finish with a few slices of dill pickles for added crunch and acidity.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman is ready to be devoured! Pair it with a side of cauliflower rice, zucchini fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients : Opt for grass-fed beef and organic vegetables whenever possible. Not only do they taste better, but they also offer superior nutritional value.
- Don’t Rush the Onions : Caramelizing onions takes time, but the result is worth it. Slow-cooking brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Experiment with Sauces : If you’re not a fan of mayo-based sauces, try substituting with sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with spices for a lighter alternative.
- Track Your Macros : While this dish is inherently low-carb, it’s always a good idea to double-check portion sizes and ingredient labels to stay within your daily carb limit.
Final Thoughts
The Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, smart ingredient choices, and creative adaptations of classic comfort foods. By combining the simplicity of the Flying Dutchman with the indulgent toppings of Animal Style, you get a dish that satisfies cravings without compromising your commitment to a low-carb lifestyle.
Whether you’re new to the keto diet or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy all the goodness of a gourmet burger while staying true to your nutritional goals. So fire up the stove, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a guilt-free feast that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor.
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The Ultimate Guide to the Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman: A Low-Carb Delight
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS: Mayonnaise (to taste)
Sugar-free ketchup (to taste)
Relish (1 spoonful)
Worcestershire sauce (a dash)
Garlic powder (to taste)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Hot and spicy pickles (to taste)
½ medium yellow onion (chopped)
Oil and butter (for cooking)
2 slices American cheese
80/20 ground beef (1/3 pound balls)
Yellow mustard (to taste)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix mayo, ketchup, relish, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill in the fridge.
2. Sauté chopped onions in oil and butter over medium heat until softened (about 30 minutes).
3. Form ground beef into balls and heat a griddle until smoking. Smash the balls down for a crust.
4. Season with salt and pepper, add mustard, flip, and place cheese between patties to melt.
5. Serve with pickles and your homemade sauce!
PREP TIME & NUTRITION:
Prep Time: 15 minutes, Servings: 2, Calories: 600, Net Carbs: 4g, Fats: 45g, Protein: 40g
Instructions
Keto Animal Style Flying Dutchman
Gather your friends and inspire them to whip up this delicious dish together!