Name: Animal Style Fries In-N-Out Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 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 (optional; reduce or omit for low sugar); 1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes (optional for a spicy kick); 4 cups Frozen Fries (crinkle-cut recommended for extra crunch or homemade fries); 1 cup American Cheese (or Cheddar Cheese for a variation); 1 cup Onions, diced (shallots can be used as a milder alternative); 2 tablespoons Butter (vegan butter for dairy-free option); 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (olive oil works well too); 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher salt recommended for texture)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Delicious Animal Style Fries are a beloved In-N-Out copycat that brings bold flavors and comforting textures together. Crispy fries topped with melted cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce make this dish irresistible for any snack or side craving.

A rectangular white tray lined with light brown parchment paper holds a generous serving of golden crispy French fries scattered on top and around a base layer of crunchy fried chicken pieces. The middle of the fries and chicken is covered with a thick drizzle of creamy, light beige sauce speckled with black pepper. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft-focus striped cloth in blue and white beside it. 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 butter and neutral oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the diced onions and a sprinkle of salt, stirring regularly for about 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweetly fragrant.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, and optional chili flakes. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the frozen fries according to package instructions, aiming for crispy, golden perfection.
Step 4: Once the fries are cooked, sprinkle the grated cheddar or American cheese over them and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: After the cheese melts, layer on the caramelized onions and drizzle the special sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the special sauce.
Try crinkle-cut fries for extra crunch or homemade fries for a fresh touch.
Swap American cheese for sharp cheddar to add a more robust flavor.
Add chili flakes sparingly to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Use shallots instead of onions for a milder taste in the caramelized topping.

Storage

Store leftover fries and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. The special sauce and caramelized onions can be enjoyed cold or warmed gently before serving.

How to Serve

A white tray lined with parchment paper holds a single thick layer of golden brown French fries, crispy with some darker edges. The fries are covered unevenly with a creamy light orange sauce, speckled with black seasoning. To the upper left of the tray, there is a small white container of the same sauce, placed on a light gray cloth. The tray sits on a wooden surface overlaid with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Yes, fresh potatoes can be cut into fries and either baked or fried. Just make sure to dry them well before cooking to achieve crispiness.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese?

You can use vegan cheese slices that melt well as a dairy-free alternative to American or cheddar cheese in this recipe.