Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade In-N-Out Animal Style Fries: A Fast-Food Classic You Can Master at Home


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These homemade In-N-Out Animal Style Fries recreate the iconic West Coast fast food favorite, featuring crispy fries topped with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy secret sauce. Perfect for satisfying your cravings without leaving the house.


Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded American cheese (or sliced American cheese)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cut potatoes into fries and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
  3. Toss fries with vegetable oil and salt, then bake for 25–30 minutes (or fry until golden and crispy). Set aside.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add chopped onions. Cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until caramelized. Set aside.
  5. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, vinegar, sugar, paprika, and black pepper to create the secret sauce.
  6. Place hot fries on a baking sheet, top with cheese, and broil briefly until melted.
  7. Top with caramelized onions and drizzle generously with the secret sauce.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, double-fry the potatoes.
  • You can use frozen fries for convenience, but homemade fries taste best.
  • Try using Thousand Island dressing as a shortcut for the sauce.
  • Best enjoyed fresh—reheating may cause fries to lose crispness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking or Frying
  • Cuisine: American