In-N-Out Copycat Animal Style Fries are a delicious take on the famous fast-food favorite, offering crispy fries topped with melted cheese, grilled onions, and a tangy, special sauce. Perfect as a snack or side dish, this recipe brings the classic flavor right to your kitchen.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded American cheese
• 1/2 cup grilled onions
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Peel and cut the potatoes into fries.
2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
3. Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
4. While the fries are frying, prepare the special sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Once the fries are done, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Place the fries on a baking sheet and sprinkle with shredded American cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese melts, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Top the fries with grilled onions.
8. Drizzle the special sauce over the fries and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450-500 per serving (estimate based on similar recipes)
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 5-7g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sodium: 800-1000mg

History of Animal Style Fries

Animal Style Fries originated at In-N-Out Burger, a popular fast-food chain in California, known for its fresh ingredients and secret menu items. The “Animal Style” variant of their fries is an iconic creation, combining crispy fries with cheese, grilled onions, and a tangy sauce. While In-N-Out has made these fries famous, their popularity has led many food enthusiasts to try and replicate the dish at home, making it a common feature in fast-food copycat recipes.

The Rise of Copycat Recipes

With the increasing popularity of social media and food blogs, more people are interested in recreating their favorite restaurant dishes at home. This trend has allowed people to share and exchange recipes, making it easier for individuals to make popular fast-food items in the comfort of their kitchen. Copycat recipes like these Animal Style Fries have grown in popularity, with fans trying to replicate the original’s taste and texture.

The Unique Flavor Combination

Animal Style Fries offer a unique combination of flavors that make them stand out from regular fries. The tangy special sauce adds a layer of richness, while the melted cheese provides a gooey texture. Grilled onions bring a sweet and savory taste to the mix, offering an extra dimension of flavor. These layers of taste come together to create a dish that is comforting, indulgent, and memorable.

The Appeal of Homemade Fries

Making fries at home allows for more control over the final product, from the type of potato used to the level of crispiness. Homemade fries often taste fresher and more satisfying than their fast-food counterparts. The ability to customize them further by adding toppings like cheese, onions, and sauce is another reason why people prefer to make them at home.

Perfecting the Frying Technique

Frying the potatoes to the right level of crispiness is crucial to making perfect Animal Style Fries. The fries should have a golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The key to achieving this is to fry the potatoes twice: once at a lower temperature to cook them through and then again at a higher temperature to achieve crispiness. This double-frying technique ensures that the fries hold up well under the weight of the toppings.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For the best fries, it’s important to select the right type of potato. Russet potatoes are ideal for fries because of their high starch content, which contributes to a crispy exterior. Their size and shape also make them perfect for cutting into evenly sized fries. Using fresh potatoes is also essential to achieving a superior texture.

Making the Special Sauce

The special sauce that accompanies Animal Style Fries is a key component of the dish. The sauce’s creamy and tangy flavor complements the fries and cheese perfectly. Making the sauce at home allows for personalization of the flavor profile, with adjustments to sweetness, tanginess, or spice. Some people may even add a bit of hot sauce or other seasonings to create a unique twist.

The Importance of Grilled Onions

Grilled onions are a staple in Animal Style Fries, adding a layer of sweetness and savory flavor. The slow caramelization of the onions enhances their natural sweetness, while the grilling process adds a smoky depth of flavor. The texture of the onions also contrasts nicely with the crispy fries, creating a satisfying bite in every forkful.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is another important factor when making Animal Style Fries. In the original recipe, American cheese is used because of its smooth melting properties and mild flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to alter the flavor profile. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Customizing Animal Style Fries

One of the best things about making Animal Style Fries at home is the ability to customize them. You can add additional toppings such as bacon, jalapenos, or even pulled pork for a unique spin. You can also adjust the amount of special sauce, grilled onions, or cheese to suit your preferences. Customization allows you to create a dish that is perfectly tailored to your tastes.

Animal Style Fries as a Comfort Food

Animal Style Fries have become a beloved comfort food for many people. Their rich and indulgent flavors provide a sense of nostalgia for fast-food lovers, while their versatility allows for endless variations. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these fries are sure to satisfy cravings and provide a comforting, satisfying experience.

Pairing Animal Style Fries with Other Dishes

Animal Style Fries can be paired with a variety of other dishes to create a well-rounded meal. They go well with burgers, sandwiches, and grilled meats, making them an excellent side dish for a casual gathering or BBQ. They can also be served with a refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the fries and toppings. The versatility of Animal Style Fries makes them a great addition to any meal.

The Versatility of Special Sauce

The special sauce used in Animal Style Fries is not just limited to fries. It can be used as a dip for other fried foods like chicken tenders or onion rings. The sauce can also be spread on burgers or sandwiches, offering a tangy, creamy flavor that enhances the overall taste. Its versatility makes it a staple for anyone who enjoys making homemade versions of their favorite fast-food items.

Health Considerations

While Animal Style Fries are undeniably delicious, they are also rich in calories, fat, and sodium. As with any indulgent dish, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation. For those looking to make a healthier version, baked fries or air-fried options can be used instead of deep-fried ones. Additionally, reducing the amount of special sauce or cheese can lower the overall calorie count.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Animal Style Fries, presentation can make a big difference. Consider placing the fries on a platter and arranging them neatly, then topping them with cheese and grilled onions. Drizzle the special sauce over the fries in a zigzag pattern for an appealing look. Adding a garnish of fresh herbs or chopped green onions can also elevate the dish.

Making Animal Style Fries for Parties

Animal Style Fries are an excellent dish for parties and gatherings. Their shareable nature makes them perfect for serving in large bowls or platters. You can also set up a “fries bar” where guests can top their fries with their favorite ingredients, allowing everyone to customize their own dish. This interactive element adds fun to any gathering.

Animal Style Fries for Kids

Animal Style Fries are sure to be a hit with kids, as they feature familiar, comforting flavors. The crispy fries, melted cheese, and sweet grilled onions are easy to eat and enjoy. For younger children, you can reduce the amount of sauce or offer a milder version of the sauce to suit their tastes. These fries are perfect for family meals or as an after-school snack.

Making Animal Style Fries for Different Diets

While Animal Style Fries are typically high in calories and fat, it’s possible to make a version that suits various dietary preferences. For those following a vegetarian diet, simply skip the meat-based toppings and focus on the fries, cheese, onions, and sauce. For a vegan version, swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan mayo-based sauce.

Conclusion

Animal Style Fries are a delicious and indulgent dish that brings a taste of In-N-Out Burger right into your home. Whether you’re making them for a casual meal, a party, or just for yourself, they are sure to satisfy your cravings for crispy, cheesy comfort food. With the option to customize the recipe, you can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences. Despite being a rich dish, it remains a popular choice among many for its satisfying flavors and versatility.