Animal‑Style Fries (Copycat In‑N‑Out) 

Animal‑Style Fries are a cult favorite originally from In‑N‑Out—featuring crispy fries topped with melty American cheese, caramelized onions, and a rich, tangy secret sauce. This home version, inspired by The Kitchn, brings the flavors to your kitchen with accessible ingredients and easy steps. It’s indulgent, fun, and perfect for sharing, especially when you're craving something nostalgic and cheese-loaded. 

Ingredients

For the Special (Secret) Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
  
  

• 3 tbsp ketchup
  
  

• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  
  

• 1½ tsp white sugar
  
  

• 1 tsp distilled white vinegar
  
  

For the Grilled Onions

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  
  

• 1 tbsp vegetable (or canola) oil
  
  

• ~4½ cups chopped yellow onion (about 2 medium)
  
  

• 1 tsp kosher salt
  
  

• 4 tbsp water, divided
  
  

For the Fries & Assembly

• 1 (28‑oz) bag frozen shoestring French fries (or homemade equivalent)
  
  

• 4 slices American cheese
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce: Whisk together mayo, ketchup, relish, sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Cover and chill until ready to serve. 

2. Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with oil. Add onions and salt, and cook until softened and golden (about 20 min). Add water a tablespoon at a time as needed until onions are jammy and deep brown.
   
   

3. Cook the fries: Bake fries according to package instructions until crisp. Immediately season with salt.
   
   

4. Add cheese: Top fries with American cheese slices and return to the oven (or broiler) briefly until cheese is melted.
   
   

5. Assemble: Divide fries onto plates. Top with caramelized onions and drizzle with the chilled sauce. Serve immediately while hot.
   
   

Nutrients (Per Serving; serves 4)

• Calories: ~776 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: ~49 g (saturated ~15 g)
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~75 g
  
  

• Protein: ~13 g
  
  

• Sodium: ~1,904 mg
  
  

• Fiber: ~7 g