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–+ servings

In-N-Out Style 3x3 Burger

Elenor Craig
The In-N-Out 3x3 burger pays homage to the cult-classic West Coast burger joint, featuring three juicy patties, three slices of American cheese, signature spread, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and grilled onions—all layered within a soft toasted bun. This recipe recreates that indulgent stack with precise home-cook execution for big flavor and texture. Whether you're craving nostalgia or a towering gourmet burger, this is your delicious, messy ticket.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 1 burger
Calories 1447 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

For the Beef Patties & Cheese:

  • 12 oz ground beef (80/20) formed into three 4 oz patties
  • 3 slices American cheese preferably deli-style for optimal melt

For the Burger Components:

  • 1 piece sesame seed hamburger bun soft and slightly sweet preferred
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter for toasting the bun
  • 1 medium tomato sliced; choose vine-ripened and juicy
  • 1 leaf iceberg lettuce washed and crisped
  • ¼ medium yellow onion sliced and caramelized

For the In-N-Out Style Spread:

  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp sweet pickle relish
  • ½ tsp white vinegar
  • 1 pinch paprika

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, and paprika. Mix until smooth. Chill until ready to use.
  • Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat (330°F / 165°C), add a splash of oil and sauté sliced onions. Stir occasionally for 10–12 minutes until golden and jammy. Set aside.
  • Toast the Bun: Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a skillet on medium heat. Place bun halves cut-side down and toast until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat (400°F / 200°C). Generously season each patty with salt and pepper. Sear each patty for 2–3 minutes per side. Add a slice of American cheese atop each patty after the flip, allowing to melt as it finishes.
  • Assemble the Burger: Spread a generous layer of the secret spread on the bottom bun. Layer on the tomato slice, crisp lettuce, first cheesy patty, spoonful of grilled onions, second cheesy patty, more onions, final cheesy patty, and top bun. Press gently to hold together.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground beef for the juiciest patties.
  • Place each patty on a square of parchment for easy transferring and smoothing edges into a round.
  • For a spicier twist, add 2–3 slices of pickled jalapeños between layers.
  • Brioche buns may be used for a gourmet variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 1447kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 72gFat: 121gSaturated Fat: 48gPolyunsaturated Fat: 16gMonounsaturated Fat: 43gTrans Fat: 5gCholesterol: 346mgSodium: 1649mgPotassium: 1391mgFiber: 2gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 2181IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 748mgIron: 8mg
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