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I make these Animal Style Fries whenever I am craving that unbeatable combo of crispy potatoes smothered in tangy sauce sweet onions and gooey cheese This recipe is pure nostalgia and comfort for anyone who craves those classic InNOut flavors but wants to recreate the experience from their own kitchen
On rainy weekends I make a big tray of these fries for movie night and not a single crumb is left They truly transport us right to our favorite burger joint without even leaving the house
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: gives the sauce true richness for that creamy bite always pick a fresh jar made with real eggs for best flavor
- Ketchup: brings sweet tangy notes plus a classic “diner” taste look for ketchup without too much corn syrup if possible
- Rice vinegar or white vinegar: a splash brightens up the sauce and balances the fattiness make sure it is clear and sharp not cloudy
- Sweet relish: classic for signature flavor and texture opt for a variety with crisp bits of pickle inside
- Sugar: just enough to round out the flavor use granulated sugar not powdered
- Chili flakes: for a gentle heat entirely optional I reach for freshly bought flakes so they stay punchy
- Frozen fries: your favorite brand will work aim for classic cut over shoestring they hold up better to toppings
- Cheddar cheese or American cheese: both melt beautifully sharp cheddar gives more flavor but American gets extra gooey choose blocks for shredding rather than pregrated for smoother melt
- Onions: diced small so they caramelize evenly choose firm sweet onions for best results
- Butter: makes the onions rich and adds flavor go for unsalted if you can find it
- Neutral oil: prevents the butter from burning any gentle oil like canola or grapeseed works
- Salt: brings out the sweetness in the onions use kosher salt so you can season accurately
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Add butter to a wide pan and melt over medium low heat Then pour in the neutral oil and swirl together Tip in the diced onions sprinkle the salt over top and stir so everything combines Let the onions cook uncovered stirring every three or four minutes Pay attention to their color and moisture If they start to stick or darken too quickly lower the heat Keep cooking low and slow for at least thirty minutes letting the onions go deep golden and jammy This step is worth every minute for that signature flavor
- Make the Signature Sauce:
- While the onions cook mix together mayonnaise ketchup vinegar relish sugar and if using chili flakes in a medium bowl Use a whisk or fork until completely blended Taste and adjust with a tiny pinch more vinegar or sugar as needed Set aside Letting it sit for a few minutes brings the flavors together
- Prepare the Fries:
- While the onions finish go ahead and cook your frozen fries as the package describes Spread them on a sheet in a single layer for crispy edges If you have an air fryer use that for max crunch
- Top with Cheese:
- Once fries are golden lay slices of American cheese or a blanket of grated cheddar right over the top Broil for several minutes until everything melts together
- Assemble and Serve:
- Pile the caramelized onions over the cheesy fries then drizzle plenty of the homemade sauce over the whole pan Serve right away while everything is hot and bubbling
The way onions caramelize in butter makes this dish special to me Even when I was a kid mom would sneak extra into burgers or fries and now it feels like home when that sweet scent fills the kitchen Animal Style Fries always bring my family together everyone digging in before the cheese cools
Storage Tips
Store any leftover fries and toppings in a tightly sealed container in the fridge They will keep for two days but the fries may soften To reheat use a hot oven or air fryer so the edges crisp up again Store extra sauce separately and drizzle on just before enjoying
Smart Ingredient Swaps
No cheddar Use mozzarella for melt or Monterey Jack for a different flavor You can also swap sweet relish with chopped dill pickles to cut the sweetness Want it dairy free Try plant based mayo and cheese and use olive oil in place of butter
Best Ways to Serve
These fries love company Serve them with a simple arugula salad or a burger on the side For a bigger crowd offer them as part of a snack platter or game day spread Younger kids also adore them plain with just extra sauce
Animal Style Fries are party-perfect and feel like a west coast treat even when you are home They disappear fast so make a double batch if you want leftovers
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I caramelize onions for animal style fries?
Cook diced onions slowly over low heat in butter and oil, stirring often for about 30 minutes until deeply golden and sweet.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of American cheese?
Yes, cheddar cheese works well for a sharper flavor, or try any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack.
- → What gives the special sauce its tangy flavor?
The tang comes from vinegar, ketchup, and sweet relish blended with mayonnaise and a touch of sugar.
- → Should I bake or fry the potatoes for best results?
You can bake or fry the fries—just follow the package instructions for crispiness and use your preferred method.
- → How do I assemble the animal style fries?
Top hot fries with cheese, broil until melted, then finish with caramelized onions and drizzle generously with the special sauce.
- → Are chili flakes necessary for the sauce?
Chili flakes add a mild spice, but you can skip them for a milder, classic flavor.