Best Easy In-N-Out Style Burger Recipe

An In-N-Out style burger with a juicy patty, fresh lettuce, tomato, and special sauce on a toasted bun is a West Coast family icon. This protein-packed, fresh burger captures classic California fast food at its finest.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 540 kcal
#burger #classic #high protein #American
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef (80/20 blend) 24 oz
  • hamburger buns 4 pieces
  • American cheese slices 4 slices
  • iceberg lettuce leaves 4 pieces
  • tomato (large, sliced) 1 piece
  • yellow onion (thinly sliced) 1 piece
Seasonings/Sauce
  • mayonnaise 0.25 cup
  • ketchup 2 tbsp
  • sweet pickle relish 1.5 tbsp
  • white vinegar 1 tsp
  • sugar 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 28%
Protein 28 g 21%
Fat 29 g 51%
Serving size 285g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Prepare the special sauce: Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes for flavors to meld.

  2. 2

    Slice the tomato and onion thinly; rinse, dry, and prepare crisp whole lettuce leaves. Set aside on paper towels to prevent sogginess.

  3. 3

    Divide the ground beef into four even portions (6 oz each) and shape into patties just slightly wider than your buns. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.

  4. 4

    Preheat a skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Lightly butter the cut sides of buns. Toast buns in the skillet, pressing down for even color, until golden; set aside, keeping them warm.

  5. 5

    Increase heat to high. Add beef patties to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side without pressing down, flipping once you see juices pooling on the surface. Add a cheese slice on top in the last minute. If you prefer, grill onions simultaneously until soft and caramelized, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. 6

    Assemble burgers: Spread special sauce generously on both top and bottom buns. Layer lettuce on the bun base, followed by tomato slices, then the hot cheesy beef patty. Top with grilled onions, if using, and finish with the top bun.

  7. 7

    Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the lettuce crisp.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this In-N-Out style burger recipe?
The signature ingredient is the 80/20 blend ground beef, which ensures a juicy, flavorful patty. It's paired with classic American cheese, iceberg lettuce, ripe tomato, and a unique special sauce, all of which define the unmistakable West Coast burger experience.
Q. What is the secret to getting the perfect sear on the burger patty?
For the best sear, use a cast iron skillet heated to medium-high or high, and ensure the patty is slightly wider than the bun. Do not press down the patties during cooking—let them brown undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side. Adding the cheese at the end helps it melt perfectly without overcooking the beef.
Q. How can I keep my burger buns from getting soggy?
Toasted buns are crucial: generously butter and toast the cut sides until golden in the skillet. Prepare your lettuce and tomato in advance and pat them dry with paper towels. This keeps excess moisture away, helping maintain a sturdy, delicious sandwich.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving contain?
Each burger serving contains about 540 kcal, with 28g of protein per serving. The protein makes up roughly 21% of the total calories, making this a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
Q. What is the carbohydrate-to-protein ratio in this burger recipe?
Each serving provides 38g of carbohydrates and 28g of protein. The carbohydrate caloric ratio is about 28%, while protein is 21%. This balance offers plenty of energy and muscle-supporting nutrition, ideal for an active meal.
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