In-N-Out Sauce: Quick & Easy Copycat Recipes

In-N-Out Sauce is a unique delicious condiment that elevates the taste of any burger, fries, or sandwiches. Whether you prefer the classic version, a quick and easy recipe, or a healthier alternative, making this sauce at home is fun, easy, and it tastes amazing.

Let’s learn how to make In-N-Out special sauce at home, the key ingredients, copycat recipes, storage tips, and customizations for your perfect version.

What is In-N-Out Sauce?

In-N-Out Burger menu includes an in-house legendary dip named In-N-Out Sauce, which is often mistaken for a simple Thousand Island dressing, but it has a unique flavor that sets it apart. 

The sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce that perfectly complements the juicy patties of burgers.

The signature in-house built sauce is also used in famous Animal-Style burgers and fries, where it’s combined with grilled onions and melted cheese for an extra twist of flavor.

While the exact recipe is a well-kept secret, copycat versions of this sauce include the following core components that give it a distinctive taste:

Basic Ingredients:

  • Mayonnaise – The creamy base that provides richness.
  • Ketchup – Adds sweetness and a bit of tang.
  • Sweet Pickle Relish – The secret ingredient that adds a hint of tartness and texture.
  • White Vinegar – Provides a slight tang that balances the flavors.
  • Yellow Mustard – Adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
  • Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Optional Enhancements:

  • Worcestershire Sauce – Some versions use this for added umami.
  • Honey or Sugar – For extra sweetness if desired.
  • Dijon Mustard – A tangier alternative to yellow mustard.

These simple ingredients come together to create a sauce that’s both balanced and addictive!

Copycat In-N-Out Sauce Recipes

Here are three variations of the In-N-Out famouse sauce, each offering a slightly different taste.

a) Classic In-N-Out Sauce (Taste of Home Style)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients until it gets smooth texture.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  3. Serve with burgers, fries, or as a dipping sauce.

b) Simple & Quick Version (Domestic Superhero Style)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
  2. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
  3. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

c) Healthier Alternative (Healthy Fitness Meals Style)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (substitute for mayo)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
  2. Let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
  3. Enjoy a healthier version with fewer calories!

How to Use In-N-Out Sauce?

This versatile sauce isn’t just for burgers! Here are some delicious ways to use it:

  • Burgers: Spread on buns for a homemade In-N-Out-style experience.
  • Fries: Dip crispy fries or Animal-Style Fries (topped with grilled onions and cheese).
  • Sandwiches & Wraps: A flavorful addition to the sandwiches and wraps.
  • Dips: Perfect for chicken tenders, onion rings, or even fresh veggies.
  • Grilled Meats: A great sauce for grilled chicken, steak, or even fish.

Storage & Shelf Life

  • Store your homemade In-N-Out Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • It stays fresh for 5 days to 2 weeks, depending on quality and quantity of ingredients.
  • Always stir before using, as some separation may occur over time.

Customizing Your Own Version

Want to experiment? Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe:

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: Increase or decrease honey or sugar.
  • Change the Tang: Try apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar.
  • Thicker or Thinner: Add more mayo for a creamier texture or a splash of water for a thinner consistency.

The best part about making this sauce at home is that you can adjust it to your taste!

FAQs

In-N-Out’s sauce, also called “Spread,” is a simple Thousand Island-style dressing made from ketchup, mayonnaise, and sweet pickle relish.

It has a creamy texture with a tangy, slightly sweet, and salty flavor, thanks to the combination of ketchup and sweet pickle relish.

Not exactly. While similar, Thousand Island dressing is thicker and slightly spicier than In-N-Out sauce.