If you’re a fan of In-N-Out Burger, you know there’s something special about their cheeseburgers. The combination of fresh ingredients, secret sauce, and the option to go “protein-style” with a lettuce wrap makes their burgers unforgettable. Today, I’m sharing a recipe to recreate In-N-Out’s iconic protein-style cheeseburger with onions in your own kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicier burgers)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of American cheese
• 1 large onion, sliced into rings
• 1 head of iceberg lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 4 slices of pickles
• In-N-Out sauce (recipe below)

For the In-N-Out Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and white vinegar.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Cook the Onions:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and the sliced onions.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. This should take about 15 minutes.
   • Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Lettuce:
   • Carefully separate large, intact leaves from the head of iceberg lettuce. These will serve as your “buns” for the protein-style burger.
   • Rinse and pat dry. Set aside.
4. Make the Patties:
   • Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form into patties.
   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   • Heat the same skillet used for the onions over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
   • During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Lay out a large piece of lettuce and place one cheeseburger patty on top.
   • Add a few caramelized onions, a slice of tomato, and a slice of pickle.
   • Drizzle a generous amount of the In-N-Out sauce over the top.
   • Wrap the burger with another large piece of lettuce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Your homemade protein-style In-N-Out cheeseburger with onion is ready to be devoured! Serve it with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Recreating the magic of an In-N-Out cheeseburger at home is easier than you might think. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious protein-style cheeseburger with all the flavors you love. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a low-carb, gluten-free version of their favorite fast food treat. Give it a try and savor every bite of this homemade delight!