The Best Copycat In-n-Out Sauce

by Tamara J. on Apr 30, 2022 (updated Sep 19, 2024)

4.69 stars (41 reviews)

Here is the best copycat In-N-Out sauce recipe from the popular fast-food chain In-N-Out Burger; the perfect topping for burgers and fries. With a few simple ingredients, you will have a dipping sauce and spread that tastes almost identical to the real thing!

If you are looking for more tasty fast food inspired recipes, then you need to try my Mexican Pizza and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders next!

in and out copycat sauce in a bowl surrounded by French fries

The first time I tried In-N-Out sauce, I knew I needed to find a way to have it whenever the craving hit. This mayo and ketchup based sauce is zesty with a perfect balance between salty and sweet.

About copycat in-n-out sauce

While the fast food spot has chains across Texas, California and most of the west coast, the rest of America is not able to enjoy it as frequently… until now!

Put the sauce packets down because I am going to show how to enjoy copycat In-N-Out sauce right from home! With little to no prep time, you are just minutes away from an endless supply of your favorite sauce.

Is In-N-Out Sauce just Thousand Island Dressing?

A common misconception is that In-n-Out sauce is just Thousand Island dressing. While both have a similar, tangy flavor, they are not the same recipe.

Thousand Island is thicker than In-n-Out sauce. In fact, the popular salad dressing originally contained boiled eggs to give it that consistency. The dressing is usually on the spicy side with inclusions like tabasco, paprika or Worcestershire.

So while you may be able to use Thousand Island when you are in a pinch, the dressing is not a duplicate of the famous sauce.

dipping a French fry into copycat in n out sauce

Ingredients for The Best Copycat In-N-Out Sauce

If you have been wondering, “What is the sauce at In-N-Out made of?” I have an answer! That secret sauce contains simple ingredients that you more than likely already have in your kitchen.

Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Sweet pickle relish
Yellow mustard
White vinegar
Sugar, white
Black pepper
Salt

Want to Make it Vegan?

Use vegan mayo to make this a vegan In-N-Out sauce!

mayo, mustard, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and salt and pepper in bowls on a cutting board

How to Make The Best Copycat In-n-Out Sauce

It could not be easier to make this DIY In-N-Out Sauce. You are just a few quick and easy steps from enjoying your own homemade sauce.

Firstly, use a medium to large bowl that has a lid, and add all of the ingredients into the bowl.

Then add the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper.

Use a spoon or a whisk and stir the sauce until all of the ingredients are fully combined.

Place the lid on the bowl, or wrap with plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before using. Finally, enjoy!

in and out dip next to a plate of quesadillas

Serve It With…

You could take a cue from the restaurant, and use this irresistible Copycat In-n-Out Sauce recipe to spread on homemade hamburgers, cheeseburgers or animal style fries. But I have a few more ideas that you may not have considered. Add this special sauce to anything and it will definitely elevate the flavor!

Bacon Cheeseburger Quesadillas
Hot dogs
Meat loaf
Onion rings
Chicken tenders
Tater tots
Chicken or shrimp kebabs
Veggies

a bowl of in and out sauce next to slices of a burger quesadilla

How Long Does Copycat In-n-Out Sauce Last?

In-N-Out sauce can last in the fridge for up to two weeks when properly stored in an airtight container. It will last even longer in the freezer. Just make sure you leave some room at the top because sauces expand when frozen.

4.69 stars (41 reviews)