Recreate the West Coast classic with this In-N-Out Style Burgers & Animal Fries at Home recipe. Juicy double cheeseburgers with all the fixings and golden fries smothered in caramelized onions, melty cheese, and the signature animal-style sauce — it’s the ultimate homemade fast food feast.
For the Burgers:
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 potato buns
4 slices American cheese
4 slices tomato
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
1/2 cup caramelized onions (from 2 onions)
1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Animal-Style Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp white vinegar
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: 1/2 tsp sugar
For the Fries:
1 pack frozen French fries (or 200g fresh potatoes, cut and fried)
1/2 cup caramelized onions
1/2 cup prepared animal-style sauce
1 slice American cheese, melted
Optional: 130g mashed potatoes (for loaded version)
For the Buns (optional, from scratch):
560g bread flour
45g granulated sugar
12g salt
8g instant yeast
70g unsalted butter
275g milk
1 egg
1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Make the Sauce: Combine mayo, ketchup, relish, vinegar, and salt (plus sugar if using). Chill in fridge.
Caramelize the Onions: Slowly cook sliced onions in butter for 25–30 minutes until golden and soft.
Make the Buns (optional): Mix and knead all ingredients. Proof twice, shape into buns, egg wash, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Cook the Fries: Bake or fry until crispy. Optional: add mashed potato layer. Top with cheese, caramelized onions, and sauce.
Cook the Patties: Form 4 thin patties. Season and sear 2–3 mins per side. Add cheese during final minute to melt.
Assemble Burgers: Toast buns in butter. Spread sauce, layer lettuce, tomato, patty, onions, and top bun.
Serve: Plate burgers with animal fries and extra sauce on the side.
For that true “smashed” burger style, press the patties flat while cooking.
Buns can be store-bought for a quicker version.
Keep extra sauce in the fridge for dipping or future use (lasts 5–7 days).