Craving a burger? Make this In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce at home for a juicy, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress! This recipe captures the essence of the beloved fast-food classic while allowing you to enjoy it fresh from your own kitchen, with a rich flavor and a delightful crunch that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of fresh ingredients and our special sauce creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Fun to Make: Cooking this burger at home is a fun and interactive experience for family and friends.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up restaurant-style and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that signature taste and texture, making this burger irresistible.
- Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Hamburger Buns: Choose soft, fresh buns to cradle your delicious burger and toppings.
- American Cheese: This classic cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the burger.
- Lettuce: Crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color.
- Tomato: Fresh, ripe tomatoes enhance the burger’s juiciness and flavor.
- Onion: Use sliced raw onions for a sharp bite or grilled onions for a sweeter profile.
- Special Sauce: A delightful blend of mayo, ketchup, and spices that elevates the whole burger experience.
Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Variations for In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce! This recipe is easily adaptable based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Veggie Burger: Substitute the beef with a plant-based patty for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the special sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Layer on additional slices of cheese or try a different type like pepper jack.
- Bacon: Crisp bacon can add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to your burger.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

How to Make In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, and a pinch of paprika. Stir until well combined and set aside.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Take your ground beef and divide it into equal portions, shaping each into a patty that is slightly larger than your buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Season the patties with salt and pepper before placing them on the hot surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. Add a slice of cheese on top during the last minute of cooking to let it melt.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, lightly butter the insides of your hamburger buns and toast them on a separate skillet until golden brown.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burger
Spread a generous amount of special sauce on the bottom bun, followed by the cooked patty with melted cheese. Top with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Finish with the top bun.
Pro Tips for Making In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the patties.
- Rest the Patties: Let the cooked patties rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from adding your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
- Keep it Simple: Sometimes less is more; let the quality of the ingredients shine through.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your burgers fresh off the grill for the best experience.
How to Serve In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce
Garnishes
Garnish your burger with extra pickles, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra flair. These little touches can elevate the overall presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your burger with classic sides like crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad. These accompaniments will complement the rich flavors of the burger perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce on wooden boards or in burger baskets lined with parchment paper for a fun, casual dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the special sauce separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze uncooked patties. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the patties for a quick warm-up or place them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.
FAQs
Can I use leaner beef for the patties?
While you can use leaner beef, it may result in a drier burger. The 80/20 blend strikes the perfect balance between flavor and juiciness.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
Add a splash of hot sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños to the special sauce for an extra kick.
What type of cheese is best for this burger?
American cheese is traditional and melts perfectly, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef patty with a plant-based burger, and you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors.
How can I ensure my burger patties don’t fall apart while cooking?
Make sure to handle the ground beef gently and avoid overworking it. Also, ensure your skillet or grill is hot enough before cooking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you are as excited as I am to try making this In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce at home. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a classic favorite, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the deliciousness!
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In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce
Craving a burger? Make this In-N-Out Style Burger with Special Sauce at home for a juicy, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress! This recipe captures the essence of the beloved fast-food classic while allowing you to enjoy it fresh from your own kitchen, with a rich flavor and a delightful crunch that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
Hamburger Buns
- 4 soft hamburger buns
American Cheese
- 4 slices American cheese
Lettuce
- 1 cup crisp lettuce, shredded
Tomato
- 1 large fresh tomato, sliced
Onion
- 1 small onion, sliced (raw or grilled)
Special Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, and a pinch of paprika. Stir until well combined and set aside.
- Form the Patties: Take your ground beef and divide it into equal portions, shaping each into a patty that is slightly larger than your buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Season the patties with salt and pepper before placing them on the hot surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. Add a slice of cheese on top during the last minute of cooking to let it melt.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, lightly butter the insides of your hamburger buns and toast them on a separate skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble Your Burger: Spread a generous amount of special sauce on the bottom bun, followed by the cooked patty with melted cheese. Top with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Finish with the top bun.
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the patties.
- Rest the Patties: Let the cooked patties rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from adding your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
- Keep it Simple: Sometimes less is more; let the quality of the ingredients shine through.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your burgers fresh off the grill for the best experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg