Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out feature crispy golden fries topped with melted American cheese, grilled caramelized onions, and a generous drizzle of tangy Thousand Island-style sauce, delivering a savory and indulgent flavor experience.
Equipments
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Saucepan or skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Grater (for cheese, if needed)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or squeeze bottle (for sauce)
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup shredded or sliced American cheese
- 1 large yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Russet potatoes are essential for achieving the perfect crispiness in Animal Style Fries and should be cut into uniform sticks for even frying. Use vegetable oil with a high smoke point to ensure golden, crispy fries without burning. Fresh yellow onions caramelized in unsalted butter add a rich sweetness that complements the tangy Thousand Island-style sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, and sugar. Shredded American cheese melts smoothly over the fries, creating the signature gooey texture typical of In-N-Out's iconic dish. Your homemade Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out copycat menu will capture all the savory flavors by following these ingredient suggestions closely.
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and cut potatoes into thin fries using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Soak fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry thoroughly.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry potatoes in batches until pale golden and soft (about 3-4 minutes); remove with slotted spoon and drain on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry potatoes again until crisp and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes); drain and season with salt.
- Finely chop yellow onion; sauté in saucepan or skillet with unsalted butter over medium-low heat until deeply caramelized (about 15-20 minutes), stirring frequently.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, and sugar; season with salt and pepper to taste to make sauce.
- Arrange hot fries on a serving plate or baking sheet.
- Top with shredded or sliced American cheese while fries are hot so cheese melts.
- Evenly distribute caramelized onions over cheese-topped fries.
- Drizzle or spoon Thousand Island-style sauce over fries (use a squeeze bottle if preferred).
- Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Substitution
Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out copycat menu can be easily customized based on the ingredients you have available in your kitchen. If American cheese is not on hand, processed cheddar or a mild mozzarella can substitute to maintain a melty texture. When deep frying, use a heavy-bottomed pot with a thermometer to keep oil temperature steady around 350degF for crispy fries. Grilled onions can be caramelized in a skillet using butter for enhanced flavor if you prefer not to deep fry. Your homemade Thousand Island-style sauce can be whisked smoothly in a mixing bowl or blended in a squeeze bottle for easy application.
Tips
Make sure to soak your cut russet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier fries. Use a thermometer to maintain precise oil temperatures: 350degF for the first fry to cook fries through, then 375degF for the second fry to ensure a golden, crunchy exterior. When caramelizing onions, keep the heat low and stir frequently to develop deep sweetness without burning, which enhances the dish's rich flavor. Your melted American cheese should be added immediately after frying while the fries are still hot, ensuring it melts perfectly over the crispy surface.
Nutritions
Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out are rich in calories and fat due to the deep-fried russet potatoes, melted American cheese, and creamy Thousand Island-style sauce. The caramelized onions add a modest amount of fiber and antioxidants, enhancing the nutritional profile slightly. You should be mindful of sodium content, as both the cheese and seasoned fries contribute to a higher salt intake. Balancing this indulgent treat with lighter meals throughout your day can help maintain nutritional goals.
Storage
Store leftover Animal Style Fries in an airtight container to preserve their crispiness and prevent sogginess. Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to absorb excess moisture and keep your fries from sticking together. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore their golden texture and melty cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a natural sweetness and boost your fries' nutritional profile with extra fiber and vitamins. Replace American cheese with sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a more robust or spicy flavor twist that complements the caramelized onions. You can grill the onions instead of sauteing for a smokier, charred taste that deepens the overall flavor complexity. For a lighter version of the sauce, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, maintaining creaminess while reducing calories and adding protein.
Allergies
Your Animal Style Fries contain common allergens including dairy from American cheese and butter, as well as eggs in the mayonnaise. The dish also includes gluten risk due to cross-contamination during frying if shared oil is used. Individuals with allergies to dairy, eggs, or potential gluten exposure should exercise caution when consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Animal Style Fries from In-N-Out combine crispy golden fries with melted American cheese, grilled onions, and a special savory spread, creating a uniquely flavorful experience that stands out in fast food. The combination of textures and rich, tangy flavors satisfies craving for both comfort and indulgence, making it a favorite among fans. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to suit your taste while enjoying the iconic flavors at home. Your homemade batch captures the essence of this legendary menu item, perfect for sharing or satisfying a craving anytime.