Name: Animal Style Fries (In-N-Out Copycat)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484217H46M40S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar); 2 tbsp sweet relish; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/2 tbsp chili flakes (optional); 1/2 bag frozen fries; 4 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese; 2 onions, diced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp neutral oil; 1/2 tsp salt

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If you’ve ever had Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out, you know just how ridiculously good they are. We’re talking about crispy, golden fries smothered in melted cheese, grilled onions, and that iconic special sauce—a messy, indulgent, and downright irresistible masterpiece.

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The best part? You don’t have to wait in a drive-thru line to enjoy them! This homemade version nails that crave-worthy flavor, and trust me, once you make them yourself, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout.

Why You’ll Love Animal Style Fries

Crispy & Cheesy: Every fry is covered in melty cheese and a dreamy sauce.

Easy to Make: No deep-frying required—use frozen fries for a quick and foolproof method.

Restaurant-Quality at Home: No need to hit the drive-thru when you can make these just as good (if not better) at home!

Perfect for Sharing: A great appetizer or snack to impress friends and family.

Ingredients in Animal Style Fries

Here’s what you need to recreate this fast-food classic:

Frozen French Fries: The base of the dish—choose your favorite brand or make homemade fries.

American Cheese: The best choice for that melty, gooey goodness.

Yellow Onion: Cooked until golden brown and caramelized.

Butter: For sautéing the onions and adding rich flavor.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the signature sauce.

Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.

Sweet Pickle Relish: Gives the sauce its classic tangy kick.

Yellow Mustard: Brings a subtle zing.

White Vinegar: Brightens up the flavors.

Salt & Pepper: To season everything perfectly.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make these fries In-N-Out style!

Cook the Fries: Bake or air-fry the French fries according to package instructions until crispy and golden.

Caramelize the Onions: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, then add diced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and golden brown. This takes about 15 minutes—patience is key for the best flavor!

Make the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

Melt the Cheese: Once the fries are done, place them on a heatproof tray, top with slices of American cheese, and return them to the warm oven just until the cheese melts.

Assemble the Fries: Remove the cheesy fries from the oven, top with caramelized onions, and drizzle generously with special sauce.

Serve & Enjoy: Grab a fork (or use your hands—no judgment here) and dig in!

How to Serve Animal Style Fries

As a Side: Pair them with a homemade burger for the ultimate fast-food feast.
Party Appetizer: Serve on a large platter for an irresistible shareable snack.
Loaded Fries Bar: Set up toppings and let everyone customize their own!

Additional Tips

Crispier Fries: For extra crunch, double-bake or air-fry them.
Extra Sauce: Make a larger batch—trust me, you’ll want more!
Cheese Options: If you prefer, swap American cheese for cheddar or a cheese sauce.
Make Ahead: Prep the onions and sauce in advance to save time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?
A1: Absolutely! Just cut, soak, and bake or fry them until crispy.

Q2: How do I make this healthier?
A2: Use baked sweet potato fries and a lighter version of the sauce.

Q3: What’s the best cheese to use?
A3: American cheese melts the best, but cheddar or a cheese sauce works too.

Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A4: Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Q5: What if I don’t have sweet pickle relish?
A5: Finely chopped pickles with a little honey or sugar make a great substitute.

Q6: Can I air-fry the fries?
A6: Yes! Air-frying makes them extra crispy without extra oil.

Q7: What’s the best way to caramelize onions?
A7: Cook them low and slow with butter and a pinch of salt.

Q8: Can I make these dairy-free?
A8: Try vegan cheese slices and a dairy-free mayo for the sauce.

Q9: How do I reheat leftovers?
A9: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Q10: Can I make a bigger batch?
A10: Of course! Just double everything for a party-sized portion.

Final Thoughts

These Animal Style Fries are the ultimate indulgence—crispy, cheesy, saucy, and totally addictive. Whether you’re recreating your favorite fast-food order or just looking for a delicious snack, this recipe is a winner. Try it out and let me know how much you love it!

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Why You’ll Love Animal Style Fries

Ingredients in Animal Style Fries

Instructions

How to Serve Animal Style Fries

Additional Tips

FAQ Section

Final Thoughts

Animal Style Fries (In-N-Out Copycat)

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition