Description
Animal Fries is a deliciously indulgent recipe featuring crispy air-fried french fries topped with melted American cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy, creamy special sauce. This comforting dish combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect as a snack or casual meal.
Ingredients
Scale
French Fries
- 24 ounces frozen french fries
- 4 slices American cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
Caramelized Onions
- 1 yellow onion, diced
Special 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. Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld while preparing the rest of the dish.
- Cook the fries: Cook 24 ounces of frozen french fries according to package directions. Using an air fryer is recommended for faster cooking and achieving crispy fries.
- Caramelize the onions: Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for 6-8 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper, then continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the onions turn golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the broiler and prepare fries for topping: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cooked fries in an even layer.
- Add cheese and broil: Place 4 slices of American cheese evenly over the fries. Broil for about 5 minutes, watching closely to ensure the cheese melts perfectly without burning.
- Assemble and serve: Remove fries from the oven once the cheese is melted. Top with the caramelized onions and drizzle generously with the prepared special sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Using an air fryer instead of oven-baking fries helps achieve a crispier texture quicker.
- Keep a close eye on the fries while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
- The special sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or jalapeños as toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Animal Fries, loaded fries, cheese fries, caramelized onions, special sauce, air fryer fries, snack recipe
