If you have ever wished you could bring a beloved fast food experience into your own kitchen with a nutritious twist, this High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with simple ingredients that create a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce that elevates any burger, sandwich, or dip, while sneakily boosting your protein intake without compromising on that iconic flavor you love. Trust me, once you whip up this sauce, it will quickly become a staple in your fridge and your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but truly crucial for recreating that signature special sauce taste while adding a high protein punch. Each one plays a special role in balancing creaminess, tang, sweetness, and texture which makes this recipe stand out.
- Mayonnaise: Provides a rich and creamy base that holds everything together perfectly.
- Cottage cheese: Adds a delightful protein boost and a smooth texture when blended.
- Sweet relish: Brings in a subtle crunch and sweetness that brighten the sauce.
- Ketchup: Contributes tanginess, a little acidity, and that familiar tomato flavor.
- Vinegar: Adds a sharp note to balance the sweetness and richness.
- Sugar: Enhances the overall sweetness just enough to bring all flavors together.
How to Make High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Creamy Base
Start by combining 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 3/4 cup of cottage cheese, 6 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of sugar in a blender. Blend everything until you get a smooth consistency and no cottage cheese curds remain. It’s important to stop occasionally and scrape down the sides so everything is evenly mixed. This step is where your sauce gets its luscious, creamy texture and balanced flavor.
Step 2: Stir in the Sweet Relish
Once your base is silky smooth, fold in 5 tablespoons of sweet relish. This little addition gives the sauce its signature bursts of crunchy texture and adds a sweet, tangy zip that makes this High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe so irresistible. Stir gently to keep those relish pieces whole—this contrast is what makes the sauce exciting!
Step 3: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Let your sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before using. This waiting period might feel a little challenging because it smells so good now, but trust me, it’s worth it. The flavors blend and mellow during this time, making every bite perfectly balanced and super tasty.
How to Serve High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of this special sauce can instantly transform a dish, whether topped with freshly chopped lettuce, a slice of ripe tomato, or even thinly sliced pickles to enhance the crunch. A sprinkling of black pepper or a crushing of smoked paprika on top also works wonders to make the sauce pop even more visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This sauce is a fantastic companion to crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or crunchy veggie sticks like carrots and celery. Its creamy tanginess complements these sides beautifully, turning a simple snack into a mouthwatering treat. Plus, thanks to the high protein content, you’ll feel satisfied for longer.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not drizzle this sauce over grilled chicken or turkey burgers to add flavor and moisture without extra calories? It also works great as a dip for homemade kale chips or roasted cauliflower bites. If you’re feeling adventurous, use it as a spread for wraps or even mix it into potato salad to elevate your picnic game.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this sauce since the texture can change once thawed, especially because of the cottage cheese. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days.
Reheating
This sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a good stir before serving if it has been stored chilled.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative for cottage cheese and will keep the protein content high while giving the sauce a smooth texture and slight tanginess.
Is this High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe vegan?
This recipe is not vegan as it contains mayonnaise and cottage cheese. However, swapping in vegan mayo and a plant-based cottage cheese substitute could work for a vegan version.
Can I adjust the sweetness level in this sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the sugar amount or sweet relish to suit your taste preference. Start with less sugar and add more if needed after tasting.
How long should I blend the ingredients?
Blend until completely smooth with no lumps, usually about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on your blender. Scraping the sides midway ensures even blending.
What dishes pair best with this special sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile but shines on burgers, sandwiches, fries, grilled meats, and even as a dip for veggies or chips. It adds a flavorful boost to almost any savory dish!
Final Thoughts
If you love the idea of recreating that iconic fast food flavor with a homemade, high protein twist, this High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe is a must-try. It’s uncomplicated, delicious, and versatile—perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself. Give it a go and watch it become your new go-to sauce for so many meals!
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High Protein Special Sauce (In-N-Out Copycat) Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Special Sauce is a flavorful In-N-Out copycat recipe that combines creamy mayonnaise, cottage cheese, tangy ketchup, and sweet relish into a smooth, protein-rich condiment. Perfect as a dip or burger topping, it offers a healthier twist on the classic special sauce with added protein from cottage cheese.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup cottage cheese
- 6 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 2 tsp sugar
- 5 tbsp sweet relish
Instructions
- Blend base ingredients: Combine 4 tbsp mayonnaise, 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 6 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp vinegar, and 2 tsp sugar in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth with no curds of cottage cheese visible. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides to ensure an even consistency.
- Mix in relish: Transfer the smooth sauce to a bowl and gently stir in 5 tbsp sweet relish until evenly incorporated.
- Chill and serve: For best flavor, cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy as a dip or burger topping.
Notes
- Allow chilling time of at least 1 hour for better flavor integration.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version with reduced fat content.
- This sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- If preferred, you can substitute mayonnaise with a vegan or low-fat alternative.
- Sweet relish can be adjusted to taste depending on sweetness and texture preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
