In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries

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Introduction

In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries bring the beloved secret menu right into your own kitchen! These crispy golden fries are piled high with a creamy, tangy spread, melted cheese, and savory sautéed onions, creating a mouthwatering, indulgent dish that’s perfect for satisfying any craving. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as the main attraction, these Animal Style Fries are guaranteed to be the star of your next casual meal or gathering.

The first time I made them, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to recreate such a satisfying treat. As the fries came out of the oven, crispy and golden, and I drizzled the spread over them, the aroma of melted cheese and caramelized onions filled the air—there was no doubt these were going to be a hit. Watching everyone dig in was the best part; each bite is a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and crunchy goodness.

What I love most about these Animal Style Fries is their versatility. You can easily customize them to your liking—add extra cheese, top them with bacon, or even throw in a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. Whether you’re hosting a movie night, serving them alongside burgers, or enjoying them as a late-night snack, these fries will always bring comfort and flavor to the table.

Perfect for:

  • Casual dinners
  • Movie nights
  • Game day snacks
  • Potluck gatherings
  • Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries will become your new favorite snack:

  • Loaded with Flavor: A delicious combination of melted cheese, creamy spread, and savory sautéed onions makes these fries irresistible.
  • Easy to Make at Home: Skip the fast food line and enjoy this classic at home with simple ingredients.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: These fries are the ultimate indulgence, combining crispy fries with creamy and savory toppings.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Serve them on a platter with friends and family for a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone can enjoy.
  • Customizable: Make it your own by adjusting the toppings to your preference.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 70g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries:

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup shredded American cheese (or cheese of your choice)
  • ½ cup sautéed onions (see instructions below)
  • ½ cup Thousand Island dressing or homemade spread (see instructions below)

For the Homemade Spread:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sautéed Onions:

  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for crispy fries, providing the ideal texture.
  • American Cheese: Melted cheese gives the fries a creamy, rich finish, reminiscent of In-N-Out’s signature taste.
  • Thousand Island Spread: A tangy and creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together, just like the original Animal Style.
  • Sautéed Onions: These add a caramelized, savory sweetness that elevates the fries to a new level of deliciousness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries:

  1. Cut the Potatoes: Peel and cut the russet potatoes into thin strips (about ¼-inch thick).
  2. Soak the Fries: Place the potato strips in a bowl of water and let them soak for at least 15 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps the fries crisp up.
  3. Dry the Fries: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Make the Spread:

  1. Mix the Spread Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine. Set aside.

Sauté the Onions:

  1. Cook the Onions: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Fry the Potatoes:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the Potatoes: Carefully add the potato strips to the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Drain the Fries: Remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Animal Style Fries:

  1. Layer the Fries: Place the hot, crispy fries on a large serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Add the Spread: Drizzle the homemade spread generously over the fries.
  3. Top with Cheese and Onions: Sprinkle the shredded American cheese over the fries, allowing it to melt from the heat. Then, top with the sautéed onions.

How to Serve

  • As a Side: Serve as a side dish with burgers or sandwiches for a full meal experience.
  • As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a tasty snack while watching your favorite movie or game.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Offer extra dipping sauces like ketchup or ranch on the side for added flavor.
  • For Special Occasions: Serve them at a BBQ or party as a fun, shareable appetizer.

Additional Tips

  • Soaking the Potatoes: Don’t skip the soaking step! It’s key to getting crispy fries.
  • Double Frying: For extra crispy fries, fry them twice—once at a lower temperature to cook them through, then again at a higher temperature to crisp them up.
  • Custom Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like chopped pickles, bacon bits, or jalapeños for more flavor variations.
  • Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier version, bake the fries at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheesy Animal Style Fries: Add extra cheese or use a blend of different cheeses for a richer flavor.
  2. Spicy Animal Style Fries: Add hot sauce to the spread or top with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  3. BBQ Animal Style Fries: Swap the Thousand Island spread for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
  4. Vegetarian Animal Style Fries: Skip the meat and enjoy these fully vegetarian by adding extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
  5. Loaded Fries: Add crispy bacon, green onions, or other toppings to make these even more indulgent.
  6. Sweet Potato Animal Style Fries: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly healthier version with a sweet flavor.
  7. Buffalo Animal Style Fries: Toss the fries in buffalo sauce before adding the cheese and spread for a tangy, spicy version.
  8. Garlic Parmesan Animal Style Fries: Add garlic powder and grated Parmesan to the fries before adding the cheese and spread.
  9. Truffle Animal Style Fries: Drizzle with truffle oil after frying for a luxurious, earthy flavor.
  10. Curry Animal Style Fries: Add a curry-spiced dressing or drizzle with curry sauce for an exotic twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: To freeze the fries, cook them as usual but undercook them slightly. Let them cool, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best results.

Special Equipment

  • Deep Fryer or Large Skillet
  • Large Mixing Bowl (for soaking potatoes)
  • Skillet or Pan (for sautéing onions)
  • Paper Towels (for draining fries)
  • Cheese Grater (for shredding cheese)

FAQ

  1. Can I use frozen fries? Yes, you can use store-bought frozen fries to save time. Just follow the same assembly steps.
  2. How can I make the fries crispier? Double frying or soaking the potatoes will help achieve extra crispy fries.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
  4. Can I make the spread ahead of time? Yes, you can make the spread up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
  5. Are these fries spicy? The fries themselves aren’t spicy, but you can make them spicy by adding hot sauce or jalapeños.

Conclusion

In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries are a delicious, indulgent treat that take regular fries to the next level. With creamy spread, melty cheese, and sautéed onions, these fries transform into a decadent, irresistible snack or side dish. Whether you’re serving them for a casual meal or enjoying them as a late-night treat, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.

Made with simple ingredients and easy steps, you can now recreate the magic of In-N-Out’s secret menu in your own kitchen. Serve them up hot, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience that’s full of flavor and satisfaction.

I’d love to see your version of these Animal Style Fries! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see how you make them your own. Don’t forget to share your twists and tips in the comments. Happy cooking!

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