In-N-Out Animal Style Fries

For anyone who has ever craved the comfort of iconic drive-thru fries without leaving the house these In-N-Out animal style fries bring the ultimate West Coast favorite straight to your kitchen They capture the irresistible combo of melted American cheese golden fries savory caramelized onions and that legendary sauce all made with easy grocery finds

Ingredients

• Frozen French fries: classic for getting the right crispy texture look for thicker cut for a heartier bite
• Mayonnaise: creamy base for the animal style sauce use a high quality or even make your own for richer flavor
• Ketchup: gives a tangy sweet kick opt for a no corn syrup version for cleaner taste
• Yellow mustard: brightens the sauce and echoes the original recipe brands like Frenchs work well
• Sweet relish: adds tiny pops of sweetness and crunch check jar to make sure the relish is fresh and not dull in color
• White vinegar: sharpens all the flavors pure white vinegar is best
• Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning adjust to taste especially if you go heavier on the fries
• Butter: for rich flavor and essential for caramelizing onions
• Yellow onion: diced small for even caramelizing pick one that feels heavy and is free from soft spots
• American cheese: the classic melts perfectly look for deli slices if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries:

Spread frozen fries onto a baking sheet making sure they are in an even layer Bake according to package instructions usually around twenty five minutes until crisp and golden

Mix Animal Style Sauce:

In a medium bowl thoroughly whisk mayonnaise ketchup mustard sweet relish white vinegar a generous pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper Keep whisking until smooth and well blended Place the sauce in the refrigerator so the flavors meld while you cook

Caramelize the Onions:

Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat Add the diced onions sprinkle with a little salt and pepper Cook slowly for about ten minutes stirring often until onions turn deep golden and sweet This step is the secret to a true animal style flavor do not rush it

Melt the Cheese:

Once fries are fully cooked turn off the oven Arrange cheese slices over the hot fries so they cover as much as possible Slide the fries back into the warm oven for about five minutes just until the cheese is melted smooth and gooey

Assemble the Fries:

Scatter the hot caramelized onions evenly over the melted cheese fries

Finish with Sauce:

Spoon the chilled animal style sauce generously over the fries Top with extra pepper if you like Serve at once for the ultimate experience

Save

My favorite part is always the onions They fill the whole kitchen with a sweet and savory aroma and every time my family smells them cooking everyone gathers in the kitchen just waiting for that first bite There is something so satisfying about recreating restaurant classics at home together

Storage Tips

They are best eaten right out of the oven but if you have leftovers spread them out in a single layer and reheat in a hot oven or air fryer until the fries crisp up again Avoid the microwave which makes everything soggy You can also keep extra sauce in the fridge for up to a week tightly covered

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in regular cheddar if you do not have American cheese Try a vegan mayo and dairy free cheese for a plant-based spin Diced pickles work instead of relish if needed Use fresh hand cut potatoes if you prefer to skip prepackaged frozen fries just slice thick and soak in water to remove starch

Serving Suggestions

Make them a full meal by topping with crumbled cooked bacon or chopped burger patties Serve with homemade burgers on the side and a big pitcher of homemade lemonade For parties serve in paper trays and let everyone drizzle their own sauce

Save

Animal Style Fries in Food Culture

These fries are a beloved secret menu item at In-N-Out known for indulgence and that signature messy goodness Their popularity has inspired home cooks and food trucks everywhere For me sharing these at home always brings up stories of late night burger runs and road trip memories

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes these fries 'animal style'?

Animal style refers to fries topped with layers of melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy, creamy sauce that combines classic sandwich condiments.

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Absolutely! Slice, soak, and fry fresh potatoes for an even crispier base before adding the toppings.

→ How do I caramelize onions perfectly?

Cook diced onions in butter over medium heat, stirring often, for 10-15 minutes until deeply golden and sweet.

→ Is there a way to make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, whisk together the sauce ingredients and refrigerate for up to three days to allow the flavors to develop.

→ What cheese is best for these fries?

Classic American cheese melts smoothly and gives the signature creamy layer, but cheddar also works well.

→ Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?

Baked fries work great—just follow the package instructions or bake fresh potato wedges for a lighter version.