Name: Delicious Animal Style Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: French Fries (homemade or frozen); American Cheese; Grilled Onions; In-N-Out’s Secret Sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, vinegar); Pickles; Salt; Cooking Oil (canola or vegetable)

Jump to Recipe

Have you ever wondered how you can recreate those irresistible, mouthwatering Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out right in your own kitchen?

While many believe that this indulgent dish is only a treat when visiting the iconic fast-food chain, the truth is that you can whip up a stunning copycat version at home that’s just as delightful, if not better. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through a Delicious Animal Style Fries In-N-Out copycat recipe you’ll love, using fresh ingredients and simple techniques that will elevate your cooking game and please your taste buds.

Ingredients List

French Fries: Perfectly crispy and fluffy on the inside, these are the stars of the dish. You can use frozen fries for convenience or make homemade fries from scratch for a fresher taste.
American Cheese: The creamy, melty goodness that binds the flavors together. Feel free to substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, but traditional American cheese provides that signature taste.
Grilled Onions: Sweet and caramelized, they add a depth of flavor to the fries. If you prefer a sharper taste, raw onions can be used instead, but they won’t provide the same sweetness.
In-N-Out’s Secret Sauce: This tangy and slightly sweet sauce is the heart of Animal Style Fries. To recreate it at home, you can mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a dash of vinegar.
Pickles: Adding a delightful crunch and zest, pickles enhance the flavor. You can swap these out for jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the fries. Use sea salt or garlic salt for a flavor boost.
Cooking Oil: For frying, canola or vegetable oil works best. If opting for a healthier version, air frying is a great alternative.

Timing

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes for homemade fries, 10-15 minutes for frozen
Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes depending on your fries choice

This recipe is designed to be simple and quick, offering a delightful treat without hours of kitchen work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

Start by either cutting potatoes into even strips to make your own fries or, if using frozen fries, preheat your oven according to the package instructions. If making homemade fries, soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch for extra crispiness.

Step 2: Fry or Bake the Fries

For Homemade Fries: Heat your cooking oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the fries in small batches, frying for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
For Frozen Fries: Bake according to the package’s instructions until crispy.

Step 3: Prepare the Grilled Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté your chopped onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and caramelized. This enhances their sweetness and adds a rich flavor to your fries.

Step 4: Make the Secret Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a dash of vinegar. Stir well to mix and taste-test to adjust per your flavor preference.

Step 5: Assemble the Fries

Once your fries are perfectly cooked, place them on a serving plate. Top them generously with your grilled onions, then layer on slices of American cheese. Place the plate under a broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

After the cheese has melted, drizzle the secret sauce over the top and finish with chopped pickles. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Calories: A typical serving contains around 500-700 calories, depending on preparation. Essential for energy, just be mindful of portion size.
Protein: Provides approximately 10-15 grams from the cheese and fries, vital for muscle repair and maintenance.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 50-70 grams, critical for fueling your activities.
Fats: Contains about 20-30 grams, mainly from cheese and oil, which can be enjoyed in moderation for healthy hormone production and brain health.
Fiber: If you add fresh toppings like pickles, you’ll get an extra boost of fiber, which aids digestion.

Healthier Alternatives

Sweet Potato Fries: A nutritious swap that offers more vitamins and minerals while adding a slight sweetness to your fries.
Olive Oil: Swap out canola or vegetable oil for olive oil for a healthier fat option that also adds a unique flavor.
Greek Yogurt: For a healthier version of the sauce, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which lowers calories and increases protein.
Low-fat Cheese: Consider using lower fat cheese options to reduce saturated fats without sacrificing too much flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Top with Bacon Bits: Adding crispy bacon enhances the savory profile of the dish.
Sprinkle with Chives: For a fresh and vibrant touch, chives add color and a mild onion flavor.
Add Jalapeños: For those who prefer a kick, sliced jalapeños can add spice.
Pair with Burgers: Serving these fries as a side with your homemade burger creates a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Fryer: When frying, avoid adding too many fries to the oil at once. This lowers the temperature of the oil and results in soggy fries.
Not Preheating the Oven: For frozen fries, always preheat the oven to get them crispy.
Skipping the Soaking Step: If making homemade fries, don’t skip soaking them. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
Not Tasting the Sauce: Don’t forget to taste your secret sauce as you make it, adjusting tanginess according to your personal preference.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container. They are best consumed within 1-2 days.
Reheat Correctly: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.
Separate Sauce: Store the secret sauce separately from the fries to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

This Delicious Animal Style Fries In-N-Out copycat recipe is not only a fun and engaging way to recreate a beloved dish at home but also one that allows you to customize it to your taste. Ready to dig in? Try this recipe today, and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to leave a review or comment with your unique twists.

FAQs

A: Q: Can I make the fries ahead of time?: A: Yes, you can fry or bake the fries ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

B: Q: Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?: A: Absolutely! You can keep everything vegetarian by using plant-based cheese and ensuring the sauce is free of animal products.

C: Q: Can I make the secret sauce spicy?: A: Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or mix in some hot sauce for a spicy twist.