Name: In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
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 (about 12-15 oz); 1/2 to 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (grated) or American cheese slices; 2 onions, diced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil); 1/2 tsp salt

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever craved the legendary In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries, you are in for a treat that delivers every bit of that iconic flavor right at home. This recipe combines crispy golden fries with rich melted cheese, sweet and savory caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce that perfectly mimics the original. Each bite bursts with comforting textures and bold tastes that make it nearly impossible to stop at just one serving. Whether as a snack or a side, these fries will quickly become your go-to indulgence that friends and family will adore.

In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries is wonderfully straightforward, making this recipe surprisingly accessible yet full of layered flavors. Every component plays a key role, whether it is adding creaminess, sweetness, or the perfect salty crunch to your dish.

Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the special sauce with a subtle tang.

Ketchup: Adds sweetness and balances the vinaigrette notes in the sauce.
Rice vinegar or white vinegar: Brings a gentle acidity to brighten up the sauce.

Sweet relish: Contributes bursts of sweetness and texture in the special sauce.
Sugar: Enhances overall balance by rounding out tangy and savory flavors.

Chili flakes (optional): Adds a slight kick if you like a touch of heat.
Frozen fries: The crispy foundation that holds all the toppings.
Cheddar cheese or American cheese: Melts beautifully over fries, creating gooey richness.

Onions: When caramelized, they offer deep sweetness and a velvety texture.
Butter: Essential for slowly caramelizing onions to perfection.
Neutral oil: Helps cook onions evenly without overpowering the flavor.

Salt: Enhances every bite, including the caramelized onions and fries.

How to Make In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Begin by melting butter in a pan over medium low heat, then add a splash of neutral oil. Toss in the diced onions with salt and stir occasionally. The secret here is patience, as these onions slowly soften and turn a beautiful golden brown over 30 minutes or more without burning. This slow caramelization develops that signature deep, sweet flavor essential to Animal Style Fries.

Step 2: Prepare the Special Sauce

While the onions cook, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, and optional chili flakes in a bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth and set aside. This sauce is what truly elevates the dish, marrying creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes with just a hint of spice.

Step 3: Cook the Fries

Follow the package instructions to bake or fry the frozen fries until they’re crispy and golden. The fries act as the perfect canvas, holding the melty cheese and juicy toppings without sogginess.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once the fries are cooked, neatly spread grated cheddar or layer slices of American cheese over the top. Place them under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles and melts to ooey-gooey perfection. This step is key to getting that indulgent, cheesy layer that defines Animal Style Fries.

Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy

Finally, pile the caramelized onions generously over the cheesy fries and drizzle with your homemade special sauce. Grab a fork or dig in with your fingers, because your very own In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries are ready to delight your taste buds!

How to Serve In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can brighten and contrast the rich flavors. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds gentle heat, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a few pickle slices or jalapeño rings can amplify the original vibe.

Side Dishes

These Animal Style Fries make a fantastic companion to classic American fare. Pair them with a juicy burger, crispy chicken sandwich, or even a simple garden salad to balance out the indulgence. They also work well as a hearty snack alongside cold sodas or craft beers during game day or casual get-togethers.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the fries in classic paper cones or rustic wooden boards to evoke that authentic fast-food feel. You can also layer the fries in a shallow casserole dish if serving a crowd, making it easy for everyone to dig in. Drizzle additional special sauce tableside for an interactive experience that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the fries will soften over time, and the caramelized onions may intensify in flavor.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the texture of fries and sauce, but you can freeze the cooked fries and onions separately before assembling. Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to one month, then thaw completely before reheating and adding fresh sauce and cheese.

Reheating

To reheat, spread the fries and caramelized onions on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through. Add fresh cheese and pop under the broiler briefly if you want to recreate that melted layer, then drizzle new special sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The special sauce actually tastes even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before using.

What type of fries work best for this recipe?

Classic frozen shoestring or regular cut fries work perfectly because they get crispy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy too quickly. Homemade fries can be used too, just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly and are nice and crisp.

Is there a vegetarian version of Animal Style Fries?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian as-is since it skips the beef patties but delivers all the signature flavors through cheese, onions, and sauce. Just be sure to select vegetarian-friendly cheese and condiments.

Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or even bacon bits if you like. The base recipe is very flexible and welcomes creative spins while honoring the classic taste.

How spicy is the dish?

The traditional In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries are mildly spicy at best, primarily thanks to the optional chili flakes in the sauce. You can adjust or omit the chili flakes depending on your spice tolerance for a family-friendly snack or a more adventurous bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been dreaming of that perfect blend of crispy fries, melty cheese, sweet onions, and irresistible special sauce, this In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries recipe is your ticket to delicious satisfaction in your own kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight snack yet thrilling enough to impress guests when entertaining. Do yourself a favor and try making these fries—you might just find your new favorite comfort food obsession!