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Animal Style Fries Copycat Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

These Animal Style Fries are a delicious homemade copycat recipe inspired by a popular fast-food favorite. Crispy double-fried russet potatoes are topped with melted American cheese, sweet and savory caramelized onions, and a tangy, creamy Animal Style sauce that perfectly combines mayonnaise, relish, and spices. This indulgent treat is perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or whenever you crave a flavorful upgrade to classic French fries.

Ingredients

Scale

Fries

  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 6-8 cups)
  • Salt, to taste

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, for deglazing)

Animal Style Sauce

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Topping

  • 8 slices American cheese (or cheddar cheese slices, if preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut russet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick fries. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Soak the fries in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours for extra crispiness.
  2. First Fry (Blanching): Drain the soaked fries and pat completely dry with paper towels. Heat 6-8 cups of vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5-7 minutes until soft and pale but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels. Let them cool completely.
  3. Second Fry (Crisping): Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cooled fries again in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Seasoning: While fries are hot, season generously with salt and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions for quicker caramelization.
  6. Sauté the Onions: Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  7. Caramelize Slowly: Cook the onions over low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deep golden brown and very soft. Deglaze the pan with water if onions start to stick or dry out.
  8. Achieve Deep Color: Continue cooking until onions are rich dark brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  9. Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
  10. Mix Well: Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
  11. Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings by adding more relish, mustard, or cayenne pepper as desired.
  12. Chill (Optional): Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld, or use immediately if short on time.
  13. Prepare the Base: Place a generous portion of crispy fries on a plate or serving bowl.
  14. Add the Cheese: Top fries evenly with American cheese slices or cheddar slices.
  15. Melt the Cheese: Melt the cheese by placing fries under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, microwaving for 30-60 seconds, or baking in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  16. Top with Onions: Spread caramelized onions generously over the melted cheese.
  17. Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle the Animal Style sauce evenly over the onions and cheese.
  18. Serve Immediately: Serve the Animal Style Fries hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Soaking the fries removes excess starch and ensures extra crispiness.
  • Double frying the potatoes helps achieve a perfect crispy exterior and soft interior.
  • Be patient when caramelizing onions for the best rich, sweet flavor; low and slow is key.
  • Use American cheese for authentic flavor and meltability, but cheddar works as a substitute.
  • The Animal Style sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; it tastes even better after resting.
  • If you don’t have a deep fryer, use a heavy pot for frying and monitor oil temperature carefully.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper in the sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Serve immediately after assembly for the best texture; fries get soggy if left too long.

Keywords: Animal Style Fries, copycat recipe, homemade fries, caramelized onions, cheese fries, dipping sauce, comfort food, copycat fast food

Find it online: https://spiceupwithsophie.com/animal-style-fries-copycat-recipe/