In-N-Out Animal Style Burger Recipe | Classic LA Favorite with Grilled Onions and Extra Spread

In-N-Out Animal Style Burger Recipe

A deliciously indulgent LA favorite featuring a juicy beef patty with grilled onions, pickles, and extra spread, all nestled between a soft toasted bun.

The Animal Style Burger is an iconic variation of the classic In-N-Out Burger, beloved for its added flavor and indulgence. Grilled onions, extra spread, and the combination of pickles make this burger a standout. Recreate this classic burger at home for a true taste of Los Angeles.

Ingredients (Makes 2 Burgers)

For the Burger:

• 2 beef patties (fresh, 80/20 ground beef works best)
• 2 hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp In-N-Out secret spread (recipe below)
• 2 tbsp grilled onions (recipe below)
• 2 pickles (sliced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the In-N-Out Secret Spread:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the Grilled Onions:

• ½ small yellow onion (sliced thin)
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Secret Spread

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Stir well until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Grill the Onions

1. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened and caramelized (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to ensure the onions don’t burn. Once done, remove from heat.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Patties

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Form two beef patties from your ground beef, making them slightly larger than your buns. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty in the last minute of cooking to melt.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Lightly butter the cut side of the hamburger buns.
2. Toast them in a skillet or on the grill until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Animal Style Burger

1. Spread the secret sauce: Generously spread In-N-Out secret spread on both the top and bottom of the buns.
2. Layer the grilled onions: Add a generous amount of grilled onions to the bottom bun.
3. Place the beef patty: Add the cheddar cheese-topped beef patty on top of the onions.
4. Top with pickles: Add pickles on top of the patty.
5. Close the burger: Place the top bun over the pickles and press down lightly to hold everything together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve your Animal Style Burger immediately with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing drink.

Serving Suggestions

🍔 Double it up: For the true In-N-Out experience, double the patties to make a “Double-Double” Animal Style burger.
🍟 Side of fries: Don’t forget the Animal Style fries with melted cheese and spread, just like at In-N-Out!
🥤 Pair with a milkshake: Choose from chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry for the ultimate comfort food meal.

Enjoy your homemade In-N-Out Animal Style Burger—an iconic LA favorite right in your own kitchen! 🍔✨