The In-N-Out Order That's Making Onion Haters Change Their Tune - Tasting Table

"Let's face it, onions aren't for everyone. They can be a bit sharp and pungent and might leave you with an overpowering aftertaste, alongside their lingering aroma. Maybe that's why In-N-Out usually asks if you want them or not, unless you specify first. The fast food chain lets you fully customize your burger, whether you want it plain, with chopped chilis, or mustard fried."

"If you're wondering what makes grilled onions top-tier, grilling completely changes the flavor and texture, mellowing out the crisp zing in favor of a sweeter, more caramelized note, especially if you use the best type of onions for grilling (Vidalia and the Texas 1015s, FYI). You won't get that fresh crunch of raw onions, of course. Instead, they're more tender, juicy, and savory. Chopped grilled onions cover the patty more evenly too, giving you that soft sweetness in every single bite."

"The chain's secret menu is a list of off-menu combinations that regulars swear by, and grilled onions show up in many of them. For instance, the iconic Animal-Style fries and burgers are some of the most popular secret menu items at In-N-Out, and both come loaded with chopped grilled onions. Still can't get enough? Why not replace the buns with whole grilled onions?"

Grilled onions at In-N-Out transform sharp, pungent raw onions into sweeter, caramelized, tender, and savory components that reduce bite and lingering aroma. Customers can order onions whole or chopped and request light or extra portions to suit texture and distribution preferences. Chopped grilled onions blend into the sauce and patty for even coverage, while whole grilled onions remain softer outside and firmer inside for distinct mouthfeel. Vidalia and Texas 1015s are recommended as the best types for grilling. Grilled onions appear in popular secret-menu items such as Animal-Style fries and burgers and can substitute for buns in an onion-wrapped order.

Read at Tasting Table