Discovering the In-N-Out Secret Menu: Hidden Gems You Need to Try
When you think of iconic fast-food chains, In-N-Out Burger often comes to mind. Known for its fresh ingredients, simple menu, and unbeatable taste, In-N-Out also hides a treasure trove of secret menu items that take the experience to the next level. If you’re a fan of the classics but are eager to spice things up, it’s time to dive deep into the In-N-Out secret menu.
Most people that aren’t familiar with In-N-Out, order items straight from the menu and wonder what all the hype is. Well, I’m here to tell you that when you live in California long enough, you start learning all the tweaks you make to the items that make them taste sooo good!!
With a few special orders and tweaks, you can enjoy more than what meets the eye. From customizable burger options to loaded fries, this guide will give you all the details about the In-N-Out secret menu and what your favorite celebrities love to order.
What Is the In-N-Out Secret Menu?
You may have heard whispers about it, but what exactly is the In-N-Out secret menu? This unadvertised selection of food isn’t displayed on the menu boards at the restaurant, but it exists for those in the know. Through a combination of fan requests and insider knowledge, these items have gained cult status. While these menu hacks started organically, they are now embraced by In-N-Out employees who are happy to make your customized orders come to life.
The In-N-Out secret menu includes unique burger combinations, exciting toppings, inventive takes on fries, and drink options that you won’t find on the regular menu. Whether you’re looking to elevate your burger game or indulge in an over-the-top milkshake, there’s something for every adventurous eater.
Animal Style: The Legend
Arguably the most famous item on the In-N-Out secret menu is the Animal Style burger and fries. What exactly makes it so special? For the burger, you get a patty cooked in mustard, extra pickles, grilled onions, and a generous serving of In-N-Out’s signature spread.
Meanwhile, the Animal Style fries come smothered in melted American cheese, grilled onions, and more of that spread.
Want to take your order a step further? Try getting both your fries and burger Animal Style for a full experience. Not only will this upgrade leave you satisfied, but it’s a fan favorite for a reason.
Example of a Celebrity Favorite: Did you know that Ryan Gosling is a big fan of the Animal Style burger? In interviews, he’s been quoted saying it’s his go-to order whenever he visits.
Protein Style: A Healthy Twist on the In-N-Out Secret Menu
Not a fan of the traditional bun? The Protein Style burger from the In-N-Out secret menu offers a delicious low-carb alternative. Instead of the classic fluffy bun, your burger is wrapped in crisp lettuce. This option is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier take without sacrificing the flavor that In-N-Out is known for.
While the Protein Style burger is a lighter choice, it still packs all the savory goodness of a traditional burger, from juicy beef patties to fresh toppings. You can even customize it further by adding grilled onions or extra cheese, making this secret menu item highly versatile.
Celebrity Fan: Kim Kardashian, known for her strict diet, has been spotted ordering the Protein Style burger. It’s one of her preferred options when she craves fast food while sticking to her fitness goals.
The 3×3 and 4×4: Stacking Up the In-N-Out Secret Menu
Sometimes one patty just isn’t enough. Enter the 3×3 and 4×4, two towering burger options that feature three or four beef patties stacked between slices of cheese. These heavy hitters from the In-N-Out secret menu are designed for anyone with a massive appetite.
To order, just request a 3×3 or 4×4 by name, and you’ll be presented with a burger that’s equal parts intimidating and delicious. Pair it with Animal Style fries for an ultimate In-N-Out feast.
Fun Fact: Will Ferrell, the comedic legend, once admitted that he loves a hearty burger, and the 4×4 from the In-N-Out secret menu happens to be his choice for satisfying hunger on set.
Grilled Cheese: A Classic from the In-N-Out Secret Menu
For those who don’t eat meat but still want to indulge in the In-N-Out experience, the Grilled Cheese is your go-to secret menu item. It features two slices of melted American cheese between toasted buns, with all the fixings like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. This vegetarian-friendly option maintains the classic flavors while offering a meatless twist.
You can customize the Grilled Cheese to your liking, adding grilled onions or extra cheese for even more flavor. Although it’s simple, this option remains one of the most beloved items on the In-N-Out secret menu.
Celebrity Favorite: Natalie Portman, a known vegetarian, loves the Grilled Cheese when she stops by In-N-Out. It’s one of the best plant-based options on the menu!
Flying Dutchman: The Ultimate Burger Hack on the In-N-Out Secret Menu
Looking for something truly unique? The Flying Dutchman on the In-N-Out secret menu is unlike any other burger you’ve encountered. It consists of two beef patties with two slices of American cheese sandwiched between them. No bun, no vegetables—just pure meaty and cheesy goodness.
This minimalist item appeals to burger purists who crave nothing but the essentials. It’s also keto-friendly, as it skips the carbs completely. For an added twist, some customers even add grilled onions to their Flying Dutchman, making it a simple yet flavor-packed experience.
Did You Know? Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, a burger lover, once praised the Flying Dutchman as one of his favorite off-menu items at In-N-Out.
Neapolitan Shake: The Sweetest In-N-Out Secret Menu Item
Who says you can’t have it all? The Neapolitan Shake combines all three of In-N-Out’s shake flavors—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—into one delicious concoction. This creamy delight is perfect for anyone who has trouble choosing between flavors, and it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
For an even richer experience, try pairing your Neapolitan Shake with an Animal Style burger or fries. The balance between savory and sweet is unbeatable, and the flavors blend together seamlessly.
Fun Fact: Gigi Hadid, supermodel and food enthusiast, often shares her love for the Neapolitan Shake on social media, proving that even those in the limelight can’t resist this secret menu treat.
Double Meat: Another Protein-Packed Gem from the In-N-Out Secret Menu
For those who love a simple but filling burger, the Double Meat is a lesser-known option from the In-N-Out secret menu. It’s exactly what it sounds like—two beef patties with all the traditional burger toppings, minus the cheese. This option is perfect for anyone who enjoys the taste of beef without being overwhelmed by too much cheese or additional condiments.
Since this burger keeps things simple, it appeals to purists who just want more of that classic beefy flavor.
Celebrity Pick: Kobe Bryant, the late NBA legend, was once spotted ordering the Double Meat during his In-N-Out visits. For someone who always stayed fit but had a strong appetite, this burger was the perfect fit.
Add Chopped Chilies for a Spicy Twist
If you’re someone who loves a little heat in their meal, don’t forget to ask for chopped chilies on your burger or fries. This lesser-known option from the In-N-Out secret menu adds a spicy kick to any order, elevating the flavor without overpowering the dish.
The chopped chilies can be added to any burger, whether you’re going for a 3×3, Animal Style, or even a simple Grilled Cheese. For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, the chilies bring an exciting dimension to your meal.
Spicy Secret: Chrissy Teigen has mentioned her love for spicy food, and she often opts for chopped chilies when she orders from the In-N-Out secret menu.
Mastering the Fries: Light, Extra, and Everything in Between
While In-N-Out is famous for its burgers, the fries also have a cult following—especially when you know the secret ways to customize them. The standard fries are hand-cut in-house from fresh potatoes, but did you know you can adjust the cooking style to suit your preference? The In-N-Out secret menu offers several fry customization options, each delivering a slightly different texture and flavor experience:
Light Fries
Do you prefer your fries on the softer side? Then go for Light Fries. These are cooked for a shorter amount of time, giving them a slightly golden color and a soft, almost potato-chip-like texture. This option is great for those who like their fries tender without too much crispiness.
Well-Done Fries
On the other hand, if you enjoy fries that are crispy and crunchy, opt for Well-Done Fries. Cooked longer than the regular fries, these are golden-brown and have a satisfying crunch. They pair particularly well with the Animal Style fries, as the extra crunch contrasts nicely with the melty cheese and savory toppings.
Extra Well-Done Fries
For the true crisp connoisseurs, Extra Well-Done Fries take things up a notch. These fries are left in the fryer for an extended period, resulting in a texture almost akin to potato chips. They’re extra crunchy and ideal if you love a satisfying snap with every bite.
Light-Well Fries
Can’t decide between crispy or soft? **Light-Well Fries** strike the perfect balance between the two extremes. They’re slightly crisp on the outside but retain that fluffy, soft texture on the inside. This option offers the best of both worlds.
Extra Fries Tips
Don’t be afraid to customize further! Some fans like to add cheese to their fries for a simple cheesy fry, while others go all out with Animal Style toppings. The In-N-Out secret menu allows for endless creativity when it comes to how you enjoy your fries.
—
Final Thoughts on the In-N-Out Secret Menu
The In-N-Out secret menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or just someone looking to try something new. From the indulgent Animal Style fries to the simple yet satisfying Flying Dutchman, these hidden items are designed to please your taste buds in ways the regular menu can’t.
If you’re ready to explore the In-N-Out secret menu, don’t be afraid to get creative with your orders. Mix and match different elements to craft your perfect meal. And who knows? Maybe your order will become the next viral secret item. I know that In-N-Out is not everywhere, but if you’re interested in visiting a location, here’s the link from their website that shows their locations: https://www.in-n-out.com/locations.
If you’re not in the mood for fast food, try one of my homemade recipes, like my Sesame Shrimp! https://lifewithdenise.com/2022/07/sesame-shrimp-recipe/. Make sure to tag me in all your wonderful creations on Instagram, @realdenisewilliams. I can’t wait to see them!
