In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to elevate your french fries, you’ve come to the right place! My In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries are not just a dish; they’re an experience. Imagine crispy fries smothered in gooey melted cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when everyone is craving something satisfying and comforting.

What makes these fries truly special is how simple they are to whip up at home. You can enjoy the flavors of your favorite fast-food joint without ever leaving your kitchen. Plus, they’re an absolute crowd-pleaser! So grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this tasty adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious fries ready in no time.
• Family-Favorite: The combination of cheese and caramelized onions will leave everyone asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the sauce and onions ahead of time, making it even easier to serve on busy nights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist or toppings based on what you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe—just some basic items that pack a punch of flavor! Let’s gather what we need for our In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries.

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Fries

• 1/2 bag frozen fries
• Cheddar cheese/American cheese
• 2 onions (diced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1/2 tsp salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add Some Spice: If you like heat, sprinkle some jalapeños on top before serving.
• Go Veggie: Swap out the cheese for a vegan alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Load It Up: Top with diced tomatoes or avocado for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick!

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

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by melting butter in a pan over medium-low heat, then pour in a bit of neutral oil. Adding both fat helps create that perfect golden color and rich flavor. Toss in your diced onions along with some salt. Stir them every few minutes as they slowly transform into beautifully caramelized gems. This process takes patience but trust me, it’s worth it! Aim for at least 30 minutes until they’re deep golden brown.

Step 2: Whip Up the Special Sauce

While your onions are caramelizing, mix together all the ingredients for the sauce in a bowl. This flavorful concoction is what ties everything together! The blend of mayo, ketchup, vinegar, relish, and sugar creates that beloved tangy-sweet profile reminiscent of fast food favorites.

Step 3: Cook the Fries

Now it’s time to prepare your frozen fries according to package instructions. Whether you choose to bake or fry them is totally up to you! Just make sure they come out crispy and hot—this is key for holding all those toppings.

Step 4: Cheese It Up!

Once your fries are done cooking, it’s time to add that cheesy goodness! Layer grated cheddar or slices of American cheese on top of the hot fries. Pop them under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully over everything.

Step 5: Assemble Your Fries

Finally, it’s assembly time! Once your cheese has melted perfectly, top those fries with your rich caramelized onions and generously drizzle on that special sauce. Dig in while it’s hot and savor every bite of these In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries!

Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family—you might just become everyone’s favorite chef!

Pro Tips for Making In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these simple tips will help you elevate your In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries!

• Use fresh onions: Freshly diced onions caramelize better than pre-packaged ones, giving you that rich, deep flavor that brings this dish to life.
• Don’t rush the caramelization: Taking your time with the onions is crucial. The longer you let them cook over low heat, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll become.
• Experiment with cheese types: While American cheese is traditional, feel free to mix in some sharp cheddar for added depth or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.
• Customize the sauce: The special sauce is versatile! Add spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to make it your own. Adjusting flavors can personalize the dish to suit your taste preferences.
• Broil carefully: Keep an eye on the fries while broiling to prevent burning. Cheese melts quickly, and you want it gooey but not overly browned.

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

These fries are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Serve them hot from the oven or fryer for an enticing treat that friends and family will love.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley can provide a fresh touch and balance out the heaviness of the cheese and sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fries.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crisp carrot and celery sticks served with hummus make for a crunchy and healthy side that pairs wonderfully with cheesy goodness.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness to your meal, complementing the creamy texture of Animal Style Fries perfectly.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brushed with olive oil or dairy-free butter is an easy summer side that matches well with these indulgent fries.

With these serving ideas and tips in hand, you’re ready to impress anyone who tries your In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries. Enjoy this delightful twist on a fast-food classic!

Make Ahead and Storage

This In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily fit into your weekly routine. Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or just want to have delicious snacks on hand, these fries can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fries to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sauce in a separate container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Once cooled, arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, reheat from frozen rather than thawing first.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread the fries out on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but note that they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Absolutely! You can cut fresh potatoes into fries, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then fry or bake them as you would with frozen fries. Just ensure they’re cooked through before adding the toppings.

What makes In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries special?

The unique combination of melted cheese, caramelized onions, and special sauce sets these fries apart. The layers of flavor create a delicious twist that mimics the famous fast food version without using any pork or alcohol-based ingredients.

How do I make the sauce for In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries?

The sauce is made by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, and chili flakes. This creamy concoction adds the perfect tangy kick that complements the fries beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in recreating these In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries at home! They are not only scrumptious but also bring that fun fast-food experience right into your kitchen. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all by yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!