Animal Fries with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Animal Fries are a deliciously indulgent treat featuring crispy fries topped with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce. Inspired by a popular fast-food favorite, this homemade version is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces frozen french fries
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, white vinegar, and sweet pickle relish. Cover the bowl and refrigerate while preparing the fries to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Cook the frozen french fries according to the package directions. Using an air fryer is recommended for a faster, crispier result.
- Step 3: To caramelize the onions, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until softened. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the onions turn golden brown. Set aside.
- Step 4: Preheat your oven’s broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the cooked fries evenly on the sheet.
- Step 5: Arrange the American cheese slices over the fries. Place under the broiler for about 5 minutes, watching carefully to melt the cheese without burning.
- Step 6: Remove the fries from the oven once the cheese has melted. Top them with the caramelized onions and drizzle the special sauce over everything. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or switching to a sharp cheddar cheese.
- Use homemade fries for a fresher taste and crispier texture.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, mix a little hot sauce into the special sauce.
Storage
Store leftover Animal Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help keep the fries crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fries soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?
Yes, you can cut your own potatoes into fries and bake or fry them. Just be sure to dry them well and season before cooking for the best results.
Is there a substitute for American cheese?
Absolutely. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a melty mozzarella can work well, depending on your taste preference.
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Animal Fries with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Animal Fries are a delicious, indulgent snack featuring crispy air-fried French fries topped with melted American cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy homemade sauce. This recipe combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a satisfying texture that makes it a perfect treat for gatherings or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Fries and Topping
- 24 ounces frozen french fries
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons ketchup, 2 teaspoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish until smooth. Cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld while you make the fries.
- Cook the fries: Cook 24 ounces of frozen french fries according to package directions. Using an air fryer is recommended for a faster cooking time and crispier fries.
- Caramelize the onions: Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 6-8 minutes until they soften. Season with salt and pepper, then continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the onions turn golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat broiler and prepare fries for broiling: Preheat the oven to broil. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cooked fries evenly on the pan.
- Add cheese and broil: Top the fries with 4 slices of American cheese, then place under the broiler. Broil for about 5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is fully melted.
- Assemble and serve: Remove the cheesy fries from the oven. Top with the caramelized onions and drizzle the prepared sauce over everything. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Using an air fryer for the fries gives them a crispier texture and reduces cooking time.
- Watch the fries closely while broiling to prevent burning the cheese.
- You can adjust the amount of sweet pickle relish and sugar in the sauce to your preference for sweetness and tanginess.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the American cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- Leftover fries and toppings can be reheated separately for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Animal Fries, loaded fries, cheesy fries, caramelized onions, air fryer fries, American cheese, homemade sauce, snack recipe
