In N Out Animal Style Fries are a culinary delight that has earned a special place in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts. This secret menu item from the iconic In-N-Out Burger chain elevates the classic French fry experience with a mouthwatering combination of melted American cheese, perfectly grilled onions, and a generous drizzle of the chain’s signature spread, which resembles a rich Thousand Island dressing. These toppings transform a simple side of fries into a savory, indulgent treat that perfectly encapsulates the innovative spirit of In-N-Out’s secret menu.
Since its founding in 1948, In-N-Out Burger has garnered a cult-like following thanks to its unwavering commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and exceptional customer service. While the official menu is famously straightforward, featuring staples like burgers, fries, and shakes, the secret menu offers a realm of creative customizations that loyal fans eagerly explore. Animal Style Fries stand out as a prime example of this culinary creativity, combining multiple textures and flavors in a way that is both satisfying and memorable.
For both first-time visitors and seasoned regulars, In-N-Out Animal Style Fries represent a must-try experience. They capture the essence of what makes In-N-Out Burger a beloved institution: simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary through thoughtful preparation and a touch of inventiveness.
In N Out Animal Style Fries
In-N-Out fries are a staple of the chain’s menu, embodying the same commitment to freshness and quality that defines the rest of their offerings. Unlike many fast-food competitors who use frozen pre-cut fries, In-N-Out takes pride in using only fresh, whole potatoes. Each day, these potatoes are hand-cut in-store and cooked in 100% sunflower oil, resulting in fries that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
The preparation process for In-N-Out fries is straightforward but meticulous. Whole potatoes are placed into a manual slicer that cuts them into thin strips. These freshly cut fries are then immediately submerged in hot sunflower oil, where they are cooked to a golden-brown perfection. This method ensures that the fries retain their natural potato flavor and achieve the ideal balance of crispiness and softness.
Ingredients
1. Fresh Potatoes
- Quantity: 2-3 medium-sized Russet potatoes (for 2 servings)
- Description: Russet potatoes are ideal for fries due to their high starch content and ability to crisp up nicely when fried.
2. American Cheese
- Quantity: 2-3 slices
- Description: American cheese is used for its smooth melting properties, creating a gooey and delicious topping for the fries.
3. Grilled Onions
- Quantity: 1 medium-sized yellow onion
- Description: Yellow onions are preferred for their sweetness when caramelized.
- Preparation:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil (about 1 tablespoon) until golden brown and caramelized, usually taking around 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Special Spread
- Quantity: About 1/4 cup
- Description: The special spread is similar to Thousand Island dressing, and it adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the fries.
- Ingredients for Spread:
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
- Ketchup: 1 tablespoon
- Sweet Pickle Relish: 1 teaspoon
- Vinegar: 1/2 teaspoon (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: A pinch
- Pepper: A pinch
- Preparation:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
5. Sunflower Oil (for frying)
- Quantity: Enough to fill your frying pan or deep fryer to the recommended level
- Description: Sunflower oil is used for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for frying.
6. Salt
- Quantity: To taste
- Description: Used to season the fries after frying.
Additional Tools and Equipment
- Mandoline or French Fry Cutter: For uniform potato strips
- Large Bowl of Cold Water: To soak the cut potatoes and remove excess starch
- Paper Towels: For drying the potatoes before frying
- Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: For frying the potatoes
- Slotted Spoon or Frying Basket: For removing the fries from the oil
- Large Skillet: For sautéing the onions
- Serving Dish: For assembling the final dish
These ingredients and tools are essential to recreate the famous In-N-Out Animal Style Fries at home, ensuring you achieve the same delicious result that has made them a beloved menu item.
Steps To Make In n out animal style fries
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peeling and Cutting: Peel 2-3 medium-sized Russet potatoes (optional) and cut them into thin strips using a mandoline or a French fry cutter.
- Soaking: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the fries from sticking together. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Grilled Onions:
- Chopping: Finely chop 1 medium-sized yellow onion.
- Sautéing: Heat 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the Fries:
- Drying: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures crispier fries.
- Frying: Heat sunflower oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches to avoid overcrowding, for about 4-6 minutes, until they are golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon or frying basket to remove the fries and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Season with salt immediately.
- Second Fry (Optional): For extra crispiness, you can double-fry the potatoes. After the first fry, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are even crisper and golden brown.
- Assemble the Animal Style Fries:
- Cheese: Place the freshly fried potatoes on a serving dish. Immediately top with 2-3 slices of American cheese, allowing it to melt over the hot fries.
- Grilled Onions: Evenly distribute the caramelized onions over the cheese-topped fries.
- Special Spread: Drizzle the prepared special spread generously over the fries, cheese, and onions.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Animal Style Fries immediately while they are hot and the cheese is gooey. Enjoy this indulgent treat on its own or as a perfect accompaniment to an In-N-Out burger.
Tips for Perfect Animal Style Fries
- Fresh Potatoes: Using fresh Russet potatoes ensures the best texture and flavor.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the correct oil temperature for frying to achieve crispy fries.
- Customization: Adjust the amount of cheese, grilled onions, and special spread to suit your taste preferences.
- Serving: Serve the fries immediately after assembling to enjoy the perfect combination of hot, crispy fries and melty toppings.
Tips For Best Result
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
- Potato Type: Use Russet potatoes for the best results. Their high starch content and low moisture make them ideal for crispy fries.
- Freshness: Ensure the potatoes are fresh and firm. Avoid using potatoes with green spots or sprouts.
2. Proper Soaking and Drying
- Soaking: Soak the cut potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, which can cause the fries to stick together and become soggy.
- Drying: Thoroughly dry the soaked potatoes with paper towels before frying. Any moisture left on the potatoes can cause the oil to splatter and prevent the fries from becoming crispy.
3. Control Oil Temperature
- Preheating: Preheat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for the initial fry and 375°F (190°C) for the second fry (if double frying). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Consistency: Maintain a consistent oil temperature during frying. If the oil cools down too much, the fries will absorb more oil and become greasy. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
4. Frying Techniques
- Double Frying: For extra crispiness, consider double frying the potatoes. The first fry cooks the fries through, and the second fry at a higher temperature crisps them up.
- Small Batches: Fry the potatoes in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent them from sticking together.
5. Seasoning
- Immediate Seasoning: Season the fries with salt immediately after frying, while they are still hot. This helps the salt adhere better to the fries.
6. Perfect Grilled Onions
- Low and Slow: Cook the onions over medium heat to caramelize them slowly, bringing out their natural sweetness without burning them. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Oil: Use a small amount of oil to prevent the onions from sticking to the pan and to enhance their caramelization.
7. Melting the Cheese
- Heat: Place the cheese slices on the hot fries immediately after frying to ensure they melt properly. You can also use shredded cheese for easier melting.
- Covering: Cover the fries with a lid for a few minutes if needed to help the cheese melt evenly.
8. Special Spread
- Preparation: Prepare the special spread in advance and refrigerate it to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Application: Generously drizzle the special spread over the fries, cheese, and grilled onions for the best flavor combination.
9. Serve Immediately
- Freshness: Serve the Animal Style Fries immediately after assembling to enjoy the optimal combination of hot, crispy fries and melted toppings.
- Presentation: For the best presentation, layer the fries, cheese, grilled onions, and special spread carefully and evenly.
10. Customization
- Personal Preferences: Adjust the amount of cheese, grilled onions, and special spread according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with additional toppings like jalapeños or bacon bits.
In N Out Animal Style Fries Recipe
Equipment
- Deep Fryer or Heavy-Duty Pot
- Kitchen Thermometer
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowls
- Skillet or Pan for Caramelizing Onions
- Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer
- Paper Towels
- Baking Sheet or Serving Platter
Ingredients
For the Special Spread
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Fries
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, for seasoning
For Topping
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1 large onion, finely chopped and caramelized
Notes
-
Preparation of Potatoes:
- Cutting: Ensure the potatoes are cut into uniform 1/4-inch thick sticks for even frying.
- Soaking: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. This helps achieve crispier fries.
-
Frying Process:
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350-375°F (175-190°C) for optimal frying. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor.
- Fry in Batches: Fry the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer, which can result in uneven cooking and soggy fries.
-
Special Spread:
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the special spread before drizzling over the fries to adjust sweetness or tanginess according to preference.
-
Caramelized Onions:
- Patience is Key: Caramelizing onions takes time and patience. Cook them over medium-low heat until they turn golden brown and sweet.
-
Assembly and Serving:
- Serve Hot: Enjoy In-N-Out Animal Style Fries immediately after assembling to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- Portion Size: Consider portion sizes based on appetite and whether serving as a side dish or snack.
-
Customization:
- Add Your Twist: Feel free to customize toppings like adding bacon bits, jalapeños, or additional cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
-
Caloric Content:
- Moderation: Be mindful of portion sizes due to the calorie content of fried potatoes, cheese, and special spread.
-
Safety:
- Handling Hot Oil: Exercise caution when frying to prevent splatters and burns. Use appropriate utensils like a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
Delicious Topping Ideas
While the classic Animal Style Fries are topped with melted American cheese, grilled onions, and special spread, you can take them to the next level by adding a variety of delicious toppings. Here are some creative topping ideas to enhance your Animal Style Fries:
1. Bacon Bits
- Crispy and Salty: Add crumbled crispy bacon for a salty, smoky flavor that complements the cheesy, savory fries.
2. Jalapeños
- Spicy Kick: Thinly sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick. You can use fresh jalapeños for a crunchy texture or pickled jalapeños for a tangy flavor.
3. Avocado or Guacamole
- Creamy and Fresh: Add slices of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole for a creamy, rich topping that pairs well with the other ingredients.
4. Sour Cream
- Tangy and Creamy: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy fries.
5. Chili
- Hearty and Savory: Top the fries with a spoonful of chili for a hearty, savory addition that makes the dish even more indulgent.
6. Green Onions
- Fresh and Zesty: Finely chopped green onions add a fresh, zesty flavor and a pop of color.
7. Pico de Gallo
- Fresh and Tangy: Fresh pico de gallo, made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, adds a refreshing, tangy element.
8. Sriracha or Hot Sauce
- Spicy and Bold: Drizzle sriracha or your favorite hot sauce over the fries for an extra spicy kick.
9. Blue Cheese Crumbles
- Bold and Tangy: Crumbled blue cheese adds a bold, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the grilled onions and special spread.
10. BBQ Sauce
- Sweet and Smoky: A drizzle of BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky flavor that enhances the savory elements of the dish.
11. Fresh Herbs
- Aromatic and Fresh: Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives add a burst of fresh flavor and aroma.
12. Fried Egg
- Rich and Decadent: Top the fries with a sunny-side-up or over-easy fried egg for an extra layer of richness.
13. Pickles
- Crunchy and Tangy: Add sliced pickles or pickle chips for a crunchy, tangy contrast.
14. Shredded Cheese Blend
- Cheesy Variety: Use a blend of shredded cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a mix of flavors and textures.
15. Ranch Dressing
- Creamy and Savory: Drizzle ranch dressing over the fries for a creamy, savory addition.
16. Pulled Pork
- Hearty and Flavorful: Add a spoonful of pulled pork for a meaty, flavorful topping that makes the dish even more filling.
FAQ
What are in-n-out animal style fries?
In-N-Out Animal Style Fries are a popular and indulgent item from In-N-Out Burger’s famous “secret menu.” They take the chain’s classic French fries and elevate them with a combination of savory toppings that create a unique and flavorful experience. Here’s what makes Animal Style Fries so special:
Components of Animal Style Fries
- French Fries
- Base: The foundation of Animal Style Fries is In-N-Out’s freshly cut French fries. These fries are made from whole Russet potatoes, which are sliced in-house daily and cooked in 100% sunflower oil. They are known for their natural potato flavor and slightly crispy texture.
- American Cheese
- Cheesy Goodness: Melted American cheese is generously layered over the hot fries. The cheese adds a creamy, gooey texture and a rich, savory flavor that complements the fries perfectly.
- Grilled Onions
- Sweet and Caramelized: Finely chopped onions are sautéed until they are golden brown and caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness. These grilled onions add a depth of flavor and a pleasant sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
- Special Spread
- Signature Sauce: The final touch is a generous drizzle of In-N-Out’s special spread, which is similar to Thousand Island dressing. The spread is a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a few other ingredients, giving it a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor.
How Animal Style Fries Are Made?
- Frying the Fries: Freshly cut potatoes are fried in sunflower oil until they are golden and crispy.
- Adding the Cheese: While the fries are still hot, they are topped with slices of American cheese, which melt into the fries, creating a creamy layer.
- Topping with Grilled Onions: Caramelized onions are then spread over the cheese-covered fries, adding sweetness and texture.
- Drizzling the Special Spread: Finally, the special spread is drizzled over the top, adding a tangy and creamy finish to the dish.
Why People Love Animal Style Fries?
Animal Style Fries are beloved for their combination of flavors and textures. The crispy fries, gooey melted cheese, sweet grilled onions, and tangy spread create a harmonious blend that satisfies a variety of taste preferences. This dish is a prime example of how In-N-Out transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, providing an indulgent and memorable fast-food experience.
Customization Options
While the classic Animal Style Fries are delicious on their own, customers can also customize them to suit their tastes. Some popular variations include adding extra cheese, asking for well-done fries for extra crispiness, or incorporating additional toppings like bacon or jalapeños.
Overall, In-N-Out Animal Style Fries are a testament to the chain’s creativity and commitment to quality, offering a delectable treat that keeps customers coming back for more.
What is gorilla style at in and out?
“Gorilla Style” is an unofficial and lesser-known secret menu item at In-N-Out Burger. Although not formally recognized on the menu, the term is rumored to refer to a burger that combines elements of the chain’s “Animal Style” and “Flying Dutchman” options. However, it’s important to note that not all In-N-Out locations or employees may be familiar with this term, and availability may vary.
Why is In N Out burger called animal style?
Is animal style burger better?
Whether an Animal Style burger at In-N-Out is “better” depends on individual taste preferences, but many people find it to be a more flavorful and satisfying option. Here’s a comparison to help determine if it might be better for you:
Flavor Profile
Animal Style Burger
- Mustard-Grilled Patty: Adds a tangy and savory flavor.
- Grilled Onions: Provide sweetness and depth.
- Pickles: Add a crunchy, tangy element.
- Extra Spread: Enhances the burger with a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Overall Taste: Richer, more complex, and indulgent.
Standard Burger
- Plain Patty: Simple and straightforward beef flavor.
- Raw Onions (if chosen): Sharp and pungent.
- No Pickles or Extra Spread: More basic toppings.
- Overall Taste: Cleaner and less complicated.
Animal Style Burger
- Grilled Onions: Softer texture compared to raw onions.
- Extra Spread: Adds a creamy consistency.
- Pickles: Provide crunch.
Standard Burger
- Raw Onions: Crunchy and crisp.
- No Extra Spread: Less creamy texture.
Animal Style Burger
- Messier: More toppings and spread can make it messier to eat.
- More Indulgent: Feels like a special treat due to the extra flavors and toppings.
Standard Burger
- Neater: Simpler construction is easier to handle.
- Classic Experience: More traditional fast-food burger experience.
Why is in and out so popular?
In-N-Out Burger enjoys widespread popularity for several reasons, encompassing its food quality, customer service, and unique brand culture. Here’s an in-depth look at why In-N-Out is so beloved:
1. High-Quality Food
Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh, Never Frozen: In-N-Out prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beef is never frozen, and the potatoes used for fries are freshly cut in each restaurant.
- Simple, Classic Menu: The menu is straightforward, focusing on burgers, fries, and shakes, which allows for consistent quality control.
Made-to-Order
- Customization: Each order is made fresh to the customer’s specifications, ensuring a personalized and high-quality dining experience.
- Animal Style and Secret Menu: The secret menu items like Animal Style burgers and fries add an element of novelty and customization that customers love.
Hi there! I’m Jillian Brooks, and as Senior HR Leader at In-N-Out Burger, I’m passionate about creating a culture of quality that extends from our employees to our menu. After all, happy employees make for happy customers, and that all starts with serving up delicious food we can all be proud of.
This website, https://innoutmenu.com/, is my way of sharing that In-N-Out experience with the world. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about our menu, from our classic burgers and fries to our not-so-secret menu items.
Whether you’re a longtime In-N-Out fan or just discovering our deliciousness for the first time, I hope this website helps you find your perfect meal. And remember, our menu might be simple, but the quality is anything but!