Animal Style Fries are a fun twist on regular fries! They are crispy and topped with melted cheese, grilled onions, and special sauce. It’s like a party in a bowl!
Who doesn’t love fries loaded up with all those tasty toppings? I can never resist finishing off the whole plate, even if I tell myself to save some for later! 😂
I simply love making these to share with friends. It’s so easy to whip up and they always vanish quickly—everyone loves them! Perfect for game day or movie night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: Fresh russet potatoes make for crispy fries. If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, frozen French fries work well too. I often keep a bag in my freezer for quick meals!
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter option, try using turkey bacon or even crispy baked chickpeas for a unique taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar really enhances the flavor. You can switch it up with Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses! I love a good blend for extra complexity.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the “animal style” sauce. If you’re vegan, use a plant-based mayo or Greek yogurt for a similar texture. It’s about finding what works for your diet!
Onions: Caramelized onions bring sweetness to the dish. If you’re in a hurry, try using store-bought sautéed onions or simply add fresh diced onions for a sharper flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Frying potatoes to crispy perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it! The key is to soak and dry your potatoes before frying. This removes excess starch and helps achieve that golden color.
- Wash and peel, then cut the potatoes into fry shapes. Rinse them in cold water and pat dry completely—moisture is the enemy!
- Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial; too hot means burnt fries, too cold means soggy fries.
- Fry in batches for about 4-6 minutes until golden, then drain on paper towels and season with salt right away.
These steps will assure you get the crispy fries you want without being greasy! Enjoy them fresh and hot!
How to Make Delicious Animal Style Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes (for fresh fries) or 1 bag of frozen French fries (about 1 lb)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, if making fries from scratch)
For the Toppings:
- 8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish or finely chopped pickles
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onions, sautéed until caramelized
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and cooking if you’re using frozen fries. If you’re starting from scratch with fresh potatoes, budget about 30-40 minutes to allow for washing, peeling, cutting, frying, and assembling. Once everything is ready, you can dig in right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
If you’re using fresh potatoes, wash them thoroughly, peel them, and cut them into classic French fry shapes. Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a towel. This helps them become crispy when fried!
2. Fry the Potatoes:
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add your fresh fries (or frozen ones) in batches. Fry them for about 4-6 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, and let them drain on paper towels. While they’re still hot, sprinkle a little salt over them to taste.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Leave a little bit of bacon fat in the pan for flavor!
4. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced yellow onions. Sauté over low to medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become nicely caramelized and golden brown, which adds a delicious sweetness to the dish.
5. Make the Animal Style Sauce:
While the onions are caramelizing, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and white vinegar. Stir until the sauce is well combined and set aside.
6. Assemble the Fries:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Arrange the hot fries in a serving dish or paper tray. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the fries so it melts from the warmth. Then, add the caramelized onions and crispy bacon on top of the cheesy fries.
7. Add the Sauce:
Drizzle that delicious animal style sauce generously over everything, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor.
8. Final Touches:
If you’d like, garnish your Animal Style Fries with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these loaded fries immediately while they’re hot and gooey, and prepare for a delightful indulgence!
Can I Use Frozen Fries Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Absolutely! Using frozen French fries is a great shortcut and will save you time. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and toss them with the toppings as usual!
How Do I Store Leftover Animal Style Fries?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten fries in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results—this helps restore some crispiness!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the animal style sauce in advance! Mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good stir before using!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want to skip the bacon, consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option or try cooking some mushrooms for a savory, meatless alternative. You could also use crispy baked chickpeas for added crunch!
