Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries are one of those recipes that instantly transport me back to the first time I visited the iconic burger joint. The sizzling beef patties, the tangy special sauce, and the perfectly golden fries smothered in melted cheese and caramelized onions, it’s a combination that feels indulgent yet comforting. This homemade version captures that same magic, letting you enjoy every juicy bite without leaving your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a weekend get-together or just craving something decadent on a weeknight, this recipe delivers all the flavor and fun of the original.
The Story Behind the Icon
The concept of the Animal Style burger and fries started decades ago at In-N-Out, where loyal customers discovered a “secret menu” of customizable options. One of the most beloved combinations was the beef patty cooked with a smear of mustard, topped with gooey cheese, extra pickles, and a generous portion of caramelized onions. On the side, the fries were taken up a notch with melted American cheese, a drizzle of the same tangy sauce used on the burgers, and more onions. Over time, this off-menu gem became a cultural phenomenon, shared in whispers between burger enthusiasts and eventually replicated in countless home kitchens.
For me, discovering this style was a turning point in my love for burgers. It showed how simple tweaks, like adding mustard during the sear or layering flavors, could transform a regular meal into something unforgettable. This Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries recipe is my way of bringing that nostalgia home, offering a taste that’s as close to the real thing as possible without a trip to California.
Why This Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe lies in its attention to detail. Each element, the patties, the fries, the sauce, and the toppings, works in harmony to create a balanced, flavorful experience. By preparing the sauce from scratch, cooking the onions low and slow, and seasoning the meat just right, you get a layered taste that’s both bold and satisfying.
Perfect Texture and Flavor Balance
One of the defining traits of this dish is contrast. The beef patties, seared in mustard, develop a tangy crust that enhances their savory depth. The fries, topped with melted cheese, creamy sauce, and sweet onions, add richness and variety to each bite. Using fresh ingredients, notably quality ground beef and real cheese, ensures that every element tastes authentic. According to the Cleveland Clinic – Onions: Benefits for Health, onions also bring beneficial antioxidants to the table.
The Sauce That Ties It Together
The signature sauce combines mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, and a touch of vinegar, creating a creamy, tangy spread that works equally well on the burger and the fries. Making it at home means you can adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking. I recommend preparing it first so the flavors have time to meld while you work on the other components. For another layered, flavor-packed recipe, check out my Crispy Chicken Burger Folded Wrap.
Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips
Here’s how to make Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries at home, with all the tips you need for success.
Caramelize the Onions
Start by finely dicing yellow onions and cooking them slowly in butter or oil over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and let them cook for at least 20–25 minutes until deep golden and sweet. Patience is key here, rushing this step will result in onions that are soft but lack the deep flavor that makes this recipe shine.
Cook the Patties with Mustard
Shape the beef into thin patties slightly larger than your buns. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet or griddle, place the patties down, and immediately spread a thin layer of yellow mustard on the uncooked side. After 2–3 minutes, flip the patties so the mustard side sears against the hot surface, creating a tangy crust. Top with American cheese and let it melt while the patties finish cooking. For more beef inspiration, see my Lebanese Beef Wrap.
Assemble the Burgers and Fries
Toast the buns lightly, then spread sauce on both sides. Place lettuce, tomato slices, and the cheesy patty on the bottom half, followed by a heap of caramelized onions. Top with the other bun half. For the fries, arrange them on a plate, layer with cheese slices, pop under the broiler to melt, then drizzle with sauce and more onions.
Variations & Serving Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basics of Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries, there are plenty of ways to make them your own. Try a vegetarian version with plant-based patties and dairy-free cheese for a lighter option. Swap the American cheese for pepper jack to add a gentle heat, or use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. If you want to mix up the toppings, add sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even a fried egg for extra richness. These tweaks can keep your Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries exciting every time you make them.
Creative Sauce Twists
The classic sauce is perfect as-is, but you can give it a personal spin by adding hot sauce for heat, smoked paprika for depth, or fresh herbs for brightness. For a tangier profile, substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt, it still delivers creaminess but with fewer calories. If you love a good dipping sauce, this one also pairs beautifully with sweet potato fries or onion rings. You could even create a smoky version with chipotle peppers blended into the base for a bold kick.
Serving Suggestions
This meal pairs well with crisp, cold drinks. I love serving it alongside my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potato Skillet for a hearty spread. For a summer cookout, set up a burger bar with toppings and let guests build their own, while keeping a tray of loaded fries warm in the oven. You can also make mini sliders using the same technique for partie, just scale down the patties and buns. According to the Mayo Clinic, balancing indulgent meals with lighter sides can be part of a healthy lifestyle, even when enjoying Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries.
Final Thoughts
Making Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries at home is more than just following a recipe, it’s about recreating a feeling. The sizzle of the patties, the smell of caramelizing onions, and the first bite of a perfectly assembled burger with loaded fries capture the joy of comfort food at its best. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well for a family dinner as it does for game day or a casual gathering with friends. For a refreshing drink pairing, I love serving them with a tall glass of my Strawberry Mango Lemonade. With this method, your Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries will always deliver that nostalgic magic without ever leaving your kitchen.
FAQ About Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries
What is In-N-Out Burger Animal-Style Fries?
Animal-Style fries are a signature In-N-Out creation where crispy French fries are topped with melted American cheese, caramelized onions, and a generous drizzle of their special sauce. In this Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries recipe, we recreate the same irresistible layers at home, letting you enjoy that savory, cheesy, and tangy combination without visiting the restaurant. The key is slow-cooked onions and a well-balanced sauce that ties everything together.
Which fast food has Animal-Style fries?
Animal-Style fries are unique to In-N-Out Burger and are part of their famous “secret menu.” While other fast-food chains may offer loaded fries with toppings like cheese and sauce, none replicate the exact combination found at In-N-Out. That’s why a Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries recipe is perfect—it lets you enjoy the same experience anywhere, using fresh ingredients and adjusting flavors to your taste.
What does it mean when a burger is Animal Style?
When a burger is served Animal Style, it means the beef patty is seared with mustard, then topped with extra pickles, grilled onions, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and the signature sauce. This method adds tanginess, sweetness, and richness all in one bite. In this Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries version, we replicate that process so you can enjoy the iconic flavor profile at home.
Can you get Animal fries with a patty?
Yes! Some fans order Animal-Style fries topped with a hamburger patty, essentially turning the dish into a deconstructed burger. At home, you can easily try this with the Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries recipe by layering fries, cheese, caramelized onions, sauce, and a sliced patty for a hearty twist. It’s indulgent but incredibly satisfying.
What is Gorilla Style at In-N-Out?
“Gorilla Style” isn’t part of the official In-N-Out menu, but among fans, it refers to a burger served with Animal-Style fries inside the bun. This off-menu creation combines all the flavors of Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries—savory beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and caramelized onions—into a single, over-the-top bite. It’s a messy, fun option for adventurous eaters.
Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Copycat In-N-Out Burgers and Fries bring the iconic fast-food flavor home with juicy mustard-seared beef patties, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and loaded fries drizzled with signature sauce.
Ingredients
Burgers:
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 hamburger buns
4 slices American cheese
2 tbsp yellow mustard
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Salt and pepper, to taste
Caramelized onions:
2 large yellow onions, finely diced
2 tbsp butter or oil
Fries:
4 cups frozen French fries
1 cup shredded American cheese or cheese slices
Animal-style sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp white vinegar
Instructions
- Make the sauce:In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and vinegar. Chill while preparing the rest.
- Caramelize the onions:Cook diced onions in butter or oil over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and sweet.
- Prepare the fries:Cook fries according to package instructions. While hot, top with cheese and broil briefly until melted.
- Cook the patties:Shape beef into thin patties slightly larger than buns. Season lightly. Place on a hot skillet, spread mustard on top, flip, and cook mustard-side down. Add cheese and let melt.
- Assemble the burgers:Toast buns lightly. Spread sauce on both sides. Add lettuce, tomato, patty, caramelized onions, and top bun.
- Serve:Plate burgers with loaded fries topped with extra sauce and onions.
Notes
For a twist, use plant-based patties or swap American cheese for pepper jack. Sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with fries
- Calories: 780
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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