Name: Animal Style Fries In-N-Out Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist); 1/4 cup Ketchup (choose organic or low-sugar for a cleaner option); 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar (or White Vinegar; lemon juice is a great substitute); 2 tablespoons Sweet Relish (minced pickles work well in a pinch); 1 teaspoon Sugar (feel free to reduce or omit for a low-sugar alternative); 1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes (optional for a spicy kick); 4 cups Frozen Fries (crinkle-cut for more crunch or homemade for freshness); 1 cup American Cheese (or Cheddar Cheese for a variation); 1 cup Onions (diced; shallots can be a gentler choice); 2 tablespoons Butter (use vegan butter for a dairy-free version); 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (olive oil also works well); 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher salt helps improve texture)

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Introduction

Animal Style Fries are a beloved In-N-Out secret menu favorite, known for their crispy fries topped with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce. This copycat recipe brings that indulgent experience right into your home kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps.

A paper-lined white basket filled with golden crispy French fries forming the first layer, topped with a portion of crunchy fried chicken pieces that are partially covered by a creamy light brown sauce sprinkled with black pepper, all resting on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth nearby, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup Mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
1/4 cup Ketchup (choose organic or low-sugar for a cleaner option)
1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar (or White Vinegar; lemon juice is a great substitute)
2 tablespoons Sweet Relish (minced pickles work well in a pinch)
1 teaspoon Sugar (feel free to reduce or omit for a low-sugar alternative)
1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
4 cups Frozen Fries (crinkle-cut for more crunch or homemade for freshness)
1 cup American Cheese (or Cheddar Cheese for a variation)
1 cup Onions (diced; shallots can be a gentler choice)
2 tablespoons Butter (use vegan butter for a dairy-free version)
1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (olive oil also works well)
1 teaspoon Salt (kosher salt helps improve texture)

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter and neutral oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the diced onions and a sprinkle of salt. Stir regularly and cook for about 30 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and sweetly fragrant.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, and optional chili flakes. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended to create the special sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the frozen fries according to the package instructions, aiming for crispy, golden perfection.
Step 4: Once the fries are cooked, place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated American or Cheddar cheese evenly over the fries.
Step 5: Broil the fries with cheese for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and immediately layer the caramelized onions on top. Drizzle the special sauce generously over everything and serve right away.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, try using crinkle-cut fries which hold the toppings better and offer extra crunch.
Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to lighten the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
If you prefer a milder onion flavor, use shallots instead of yellow onions when caramelizing.
Add pickled jalapeños on top for an extra spicy kick and depth of flavor.
Make the fries from scratch by cutting fresh potatoes into fries and baking or frying them for a homemade touch.

Storage

Animal Style Fries are best enjoyed fresh for the optimal crispy and melty texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some crispness; avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A tray lined with light brown parchment paper holds a generous layer of golden-brown crispy fries as the base. A thick, creamy orange sauce heavily covers the top, with visible small black herb flakes sprinkled evenly across the sauce. To the side, there is a small round white cup filled with the same orange sauce, sitting on a light gray textured cloth. The tray rests on a white marbled surface with soft natural lighting highlighting the textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen for caramelizing?

Yes, fresh onions are ideal for caramelizing and will develop a wonderfully sweet flavor when cooked slowly. Frozen onions can release extra moisture, so fresh is preferred for best results.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese and butter?

Absolutely. You can use vegan cheese alternatives and plant-based butter or oil to make this recipe dairy-free without compromising on taste.