Name: Animal-Style Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for the baking sheets); 2 medium yellow onions (finely chopped); to taste Kosher salt; 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar; 32 ounces frozen french fries ((do not thaw)); 6 slices American cheese

Introduction to Animal-Style Fries

What are Animal-Style Fries?

If you're a fan of comfort food, then you've probably heard of animal-style fries. A delightful creation from the renowned In-N-Out Burger, these fries have captured taste buds across the country. But what makes them so special?

Animal-style fries are a loaded version of traditional French fries, typically topped with a rich combination of sautéed onions, melted cheese, and a zesty sauce that brings everything together. This mouthwatering concoction takes your regular fries to the next level, transforming them into a savory masterpiece that's hard to resist.

To prepare your own animal-style fries at home, all you need are some basic ingredients: frozen French fries, American cheese, and a homemade sauce that includes mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish. Don’t forget the secret ingredient—caramelized onions! The lengthy process of cooking the onions may seem tedious, but it's what gives these fries their signature flavor.

Curious about how to make your own tasty batch? Stick around and follow our full recipe below! For more culinary inspiration, check out Serious Eats and Bon Appétit. You’ll be whipping up restaurant-quality dishes in no time!

Ingredients for Animal-Style Fries

Creating the perfect animal-style fries is all about having the right ingredients on hand. Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).

Essential Ingredients for Flavor

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): This is crucial for sautéing the onions and getting that rich flavor.
Medium yellow onions (2, finely chopped): These will caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness to your fries.
Kosher salt: A little seasoning goes a long way to enhance the overall taste.
Mayonnaise (⅔ cup): This is the creamy base for your sauce.
Ketchup (¼ cup): Adds that classic tanginess we all love.
Sweet pickle relish (3 tablespoons): For a hint of crunch and tang.
Yellow mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings a zesty kick to your sauce.
Distilled white vinegar (1 teaspoon): A splash of acidity balances the sauce perfectly.
Frozen french fries (32 ounces): Use them straight from the freezer for the best texture—no thawing needed!
American cheese (6 slices): Melty cheese is a must for that classic animal-style experience.

These core ingredients combine to make animal-style fries irresistible! If you’re curious about picking the best veggies or want more on creating flavor, feel free to check out this resource. Happy cooking!

Preparing Animal-Style Fries

Let's dive into making those delicious Animal-Style Fries! This iconic dish, made famous by In-N-Out Burger, combines crispy fries, melted cheese, and savory sautéed onions, topped with a tangy special sauce. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare these mouthwatering fries right in your kitchen!

Cook the onions

First things first, you'll want to sauté your onions to achieve that deep, rich flavor that elevates your animal-style fries. In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 2 finely chopped medium yellow onions to the pan and season them with a pinch of Kosher salt. Now comes the best part: patience! Cook the onions for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften. After that, cover the pan and continue to cook, stirring every few minutes, for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for those onions to become a dark golden brown—this will really enhance the flavor.

Preheat the oven and prepare the fries

While your onions are working their magic, it’s time to get the oven ready for your fries. Position 2 racks in the oven to create two levels and preheat it to 425ºF. Coat 2 rimmed baking sheets lightly with oil to ensure that your fries don’t stick. Meanwhile, combine your sauce ingredients: mix ⅔ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup ketchup, 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, and 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar in a bowl until smooth. The tanginess of this sauce is key to that animal-style taste!

Bake and season the fries

About 20 minutes into cooking those onions, it’s fry time! Divide 32 ounces of frozen french fries between the baking sheets, spreading them out in an even layer. Bake them until they reach a light golden brown and crisp—this usually takes about 25 minutes (but check the package for guidance). Stir the fries halfway through and switch the baking sheets between racks for even baking. The smell will have your stomach rumbling in no time!

Add cheese to fries

Once the fries are perfectly golden, it’s time to pile them up! Season them generously with salt, then create a double layer of fries on one of the baking sheets. Lay 6 slices of American cheese over the top of the fries so they melt beautifully. Return the pan to the oven for just 1 minute or until the cheese is wonderfully gooey.

Top with onions and sauce

Now for the grand finale! Sprinkle those caramelized onions over the cheese fries, and don’t be shy—load them on! Finish off with a generous drizzle of your special sauce. Serve immediately for the ultimate animal-style fries experience that is sure to impress friends or simply satisfy your cravings. Enjoy! For more on delicious toppings, check out Serious Eats for variations and ideas!

Variations on Animal-Style Fries

Add turkey bacon for extra flavor
Transform your animal-style fries into a savory sensation by adding crispy turkey bacon. Just fry some turkey bacon until it's nice and crunchy, then crumble it over your cheesy fries. The smokiness of the bacon adds a delicious punch, elevating the flavor profile. It's an excellent way to introduce protein while keeping your fries interesting. Plus, who doesn't love that satisfying crunch?

Try with chicken ham for a different twist
For a unique spin, substitute regular ham with tender chicken ham. The mild yet flavorful taste of chicken ham pairs beautifully with the richness of the melted cheese and the sweet sautéed onions. Simply chop up the chicken ham and toss it over the top of your piping hot animal-style fries. This variation adds a satisfying layer of taste and a delightful change from the classic recipe. Enjoy experimenting with these tasty twists!

Cooking Tips for Animal-Style Fries

Creating the perfect animal-style fries can take your snacking game to a whole new level! Here are a few tips to elevate your dish:

Choose Frozen Fries Wisely: Opt for thick-cut frozen fries for maximum crispiness—think steak fries or crinkle-cut varieties. Brands like Ore-Ida often deliver great results.
Master the Onions: Caramelizing onions is key! Be patient and cook them low and slow for that rich, deep flavor. A dash of sugar can enhance sweetness, too.
Layer Cheese Generously: For that gooey texture, make sure to layer the American cheese evenly over the fries before baking. This ensures every bite is melty and delicious.

Finally, don’t hesitate to customize the sauce! Add a dash of hot sauce for extra zing. Enjoy your culinary creation! For more tips on sauce variations, check out Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Animal-Style Fries

When it comes to enjoying your homemade animal-style fries, think beyond just the fries themselves. Here are some delicious ways to elevate your serving experience:

Pair with Your Favorite Dipping Sauces

Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor! Consider classic options like barbecue sauce or ranch, and don't forget about spicy mayo or chimichurri for a twist.

Add Tasty Toppings

Sprinkle on some extras like turkey bacon bits for a savory crunch or diced chicken ham for a hearty touch. Fresh jalapeños, chopped green onions, or even sliced avocado can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Create a Full Meal

Make your meal complete by pairing these fries with a simple side salad or hearty sandwich. A grilled chicken sandwich or a veggie burger would make a perfect accompaniment.

For more flavor inspiration on your fries adventure, check out these french fry serving ideas from the Food Network. Happy munching!

Time Breakdown for Animal-Style Fries

When you're gearing up to make delicious animal-style fries, it's handy to know how much time you'll need to set aside. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan!

Preparation Time

Getting all your ingredients ready takes about 10 minutes. Chop those onions and mix up the sauce to set yourself up for success.

Cooking Time

Bake those crispy fries and sauté your onions for about 30 minutes. This gives you the perfect golden brown finish!

Total Time

In just 40 minutes, you'll have tasty animal-style fries ready to impress your friends or family. Who can resist that melty cheese and savory onion topping?

Get those taste buds excited and start cooking! For more insights on cooking times, check out this guide on kitchen prep.

Nutritional Facts for Animal-Style Fries

If you're wondering about the nutritional profile of animal-style fries, here's a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each serving of these indulgent fries comes in at around 480 calories, making it a delightful treat without overdoing it.

Protein

You can fuel your body with about 8 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the cheese and the ingredients in the special sauce.

Sodium

Be mindful of the sodium content, which hits around 800 milligrams per serving. Though it’s a tasty indulgence, balancing it with a low-sodium meal elsewhere in the day can keep things in check.

For more tips on how to pair these fries or make your own dipping sauces, check out resources on healthy eating and feel free to experiment with seasoning to elevate your meal!

FAQs about Animal-Style Fries

Can I make Animal-Style Fries healthier?
Absolutely! You can opt for air-fried or oven-baked fries instead of deep-fried to cut down on calories and fats. Additionally, consider using Greek yogurt as a lighter base for your sauce instead of mayonnaise. You might even skip the cheese or replace it with a low-fat version to enjoy a guilt-free twist on this decadent dish.

What can I substitute if I don't like pickles?
If pickles aren’t your jam, there are plenty of alternatives! You could use diced tomatoes for a fresh flavor or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Another option is a bit of finely chopped green bell pepper, which adds a nice crunch without the tanginess of pickles.

How do I store leftovers?
To enjoy your leftover Animal-Style Fries, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 2-3 days. When reheating, consider popping them back in the oven to restore that crispy texture. For more tips on food storage, check out this guide from the USDA.

Conclusion on Animal-Style Fries

In summary, animal-style fries are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fries with gooey cheese, savory grilled onions, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, they bring indulgence to any occasion. Dive into the recipe, and enjoy these mouthwatering bites today!