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In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish, Snack
  • Method: Baking, Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Craving In-N-Outโ€™s famous Animal Style Fries but not near a location? This copycat recipe recreates the magic right at home! Crispy golden fries topped with melted American cheese, savory caramelized onions, and that signature tangy spread. Perfect as a snack or indulgent side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Fries:
    • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
    • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for coating)
    • Salt, to taste
  • For the Caramelized Onions:
    • 2 large yellow onions, finely chopped
    • 2 tbsp butter
    • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • Pinch of salt
  • For the Animal Style Spread:
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tbsp ketchup
    • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
    • 2 tsp sweet pickle relish
    • 1 tsp white vinegar
    • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • For Assembling:
    • 6 slices of American cheese
    • Optional: chopped pickles for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fries:
    • Preheat the oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC) or heat oil to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) if frying.
    • Toss the cut potatoes in vegetable oil and a bit of salt.
    • For oven-baked: Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
    • For frying: Fry in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
  2. Caramelize the Onions:
    • In a skillet, heat butter and oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onions, sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of salt.
    • Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
  3. Make the Animal Style Spread:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, and sugar. Stir until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Fries:
    • Arrange the hot fries on a serving plate.
    • Place slices of American cheese over the fries while theyโ€™re still hot so the cheese melts.
    • Top with the warm caramelized onions.
    • Drizzle generously with the Animal Style spread.
    • Add chopped pickles if desired for extra crunch.
  5. Serve Immediately:
    • Enjoy your homemade Animal Style Fries while hot and gooey!

Notes

  • For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking, then pat dry.
  • You can use frozen fries for a quicker option.
  • Adjust the spread ingredients to tasteโ€”add more relish for sweetness or extra mustard for tang.