McDonald’s, a name synonymous with global fast food, has captivated millions daily since its founding in 1940. From its humble beginnings as a California drive-in, it transformed into an international behemoth under Ray Kroc’s vision in 1955, introducing iconic items like the Big Mac in 1968 and the universally adored Happy Meal in 1979. While its official menu, readily available in-store, online, or via the McDonald’s app, boasts crowd-pleasers like the Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets, and the legendary Egg McMuffin, there’s a lesser-known culinary universe that exists just beyond the advertised offerings – a secret menu, cultivated by an enthusiastic community of diners.
This clandestine collection of off-menu hacks offers a fascinating glimpse into the creativity of McDonald’s patrons and the surprising versatility of the chain’s ingredients. Unlike some other fast-food giants, McDonald’s isn’t officially known for a “secret menu,” making these creations even more intriguing. They often stem from imaginative combinations of existing menu items, sometimes even riffing on retired limited-time offerings or born purely from a spark of creative madness from loyal customers.
Navigating McDonald’s secret menu often requires a do-it-yourself approach, especially with the increasing automation of ordering through virtual kiosks. However, with a bit of polite persistence at the register or through clever app ordering, many of these bespoke items can be assembled from the value menu, transforming a standard visit into an investigative culinary adventure. We’ve delved into numerous online recommendations and real-world trials to bring you the inside scoop on some of the most compelling McDonald’s menu hacks.
1. **Apple Pie Shake**The concept of apple pie a la mode is a timeless dessert classic, and McDonald’s patrons have ingeniously adapted this to their menu. The Apple Pie Shake is a creative concoction that allows you to enjoy this comforting combination with a delightful twist, mitigating the infamous piping hot nature of the baked apple pies directly from the fryer. This hack showcases how simple components can be transformed into something entirely new and exciting.
Canadian McDonald’s locations once featured a ‘remix menu’ that included a blend of apple pie with a vanilla McFlurry, which many consider the pinnacle of this hybridization. For those whose local McDonald’s, like in our test, only serves Oreo McFlurries, the vanilla shake serves as an excellent substitute, providing the creamy base necessary for this delectable dessert. The beauty of this item lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your immediate preferences.
To craft your own Apple Pie Shake, the process is straightforward. Begin by ordering a vanilla shake, priced in the range of McCafé options typically from $2.09 to $4.62, and an apple pie, which typically costs $2.89. Once you have these two components, carefully tear the apple pie into small, manageable pieces. These sticky, cinnamon-infused bits of dessert are then sprinkled into your vanilla shake, creating a textural and flavor contrast that is truly satisfying. A quick stir is all it takes to meld these ingredients into a harmonious treat.
This DIY dessert delivers a fantastic taste experience. The distinct cinnamon flavor from the apple pie, combined with its slightly crispy texture, provides a wonderful counterpoint to the smooth, velvety consistency of the vanilla shake. Furthermore, this method offers a practical benefit by helping to cool down the pie, preventing those all-too-common scalding sensations that can occur when eating a freshly served McDonald’s apple pie. It’s a smart and delicious way to elevate a classic.
Apple Pie Shake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all necessary ingredients: frozen vanilla yogurt or ice cream, apple pie slices, milk, ground cinnamon, and optional whipped cream.
- Add the frozen vanilla yogurt (or ice cream) and the apple pie slices into a high-speed blender.
- Pour in approximately half of the recommended milk amount to start, adjusting later for desired thickness.
- Blend the ingredients on medium-high speed until the mixture is mostly smooth.
- Pause the blender and use a spatula to scrape down any ingredients clinging to the sides, ensuring even blending.
- Gradually add more milk, a tablespoon at a time, blending briefly after each addition until your desired shake consistency is achieved.
- Add a generous pinch of ground cinnamon to the mixture and blend for a final few seconds to thoroughly combine the flavors.
- Pour the prepared apple pie shake into chilled serving glasses.
- Optionally, top each shake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a further sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an appealing garnish.
- Serve immediately to enjoy this decadent and refreshing dessert beverage.
Notes
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2. **Big McChicken**Among the array of McDonald’s secret menu items, the Big McChicken stands out as perhaps the most audacious and over-the-top creation. This culinary marvel is constructed by replacing the traditional three buns of a Big Mac with three McChicken patties. It’s important to distinguish this from the promotional Chicken Big Mac, which recently appeared on menus as a Big Mac where the beef patties are swapped for chicken. The Big McChicken is a far more substantial and, arguably, superior creation for those craving a truly chicken-centric experience.
What makes the Big McChicken truly shine, in the opinion of many enthusiasts, is the generous application of both mayonnaise and the signature Big Mac sauce on each layer. The interplay of these creamy, tangy sauces is crucial for balancing the often drier texture of the McChicken patties when they stand alone. The original burger patties, though replaced, play a key role in the overall concept by highlighting the chicken’s flavor profile in contrast to a traditional beef experience.
Instead of discarding the original burger patties from the McDouble that might serve as the core, some versions suggest incorporating them to add a much-needed juiciness and ‘grease factor’ to the overall sandwich. This creates an overloaded, almost absurd-looking alternative, but one that provides a rich and complex flavor profile. The acidic tang of the Big Mac sauce is particularly effective here, expertly cutting through the vague saltiness inherent in both the beef (if included) and chicken components, ensuring each bite remains engaging and flavorful.
For those who appreciate an extra kick, the Big McChicken offers customization potential. Swapping in the Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken patties and perhaps requesting a side of hot mustard can significantly elevate the heat level, truly frying the taste buds and adding another layer of excitement to this already extravagant sandwich. It’s a testament to the adaptability of McDonald’s menu components.
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3. **All-American Burger**The traditional McDonald’s Hamburger, typically adorned with ketchup, mustard, pickles, and onions, is a study in straightforward simplicity. The All-American burger takes this concept a step further, stripping it down to its most fundamental components to evoke a sense of nostalgia and simpler times. This secret menu item is essentially a Hamburger ordered without mustard and onions, leaving only the sweet tang of ketchup and the crisp bite of pickle slices to complement the single burger patty on a seedless McDonald’s bun.
The resulting combination is a straightforward yet remarkably effective way to transport burger enthusiasts back to their early days of dining at the Golden Arches. Many find that the experience triggers memories of Happy Meals, perhaps due to the prominence of ketchup overwhelming the taste buds, or simply the compact size of the burger, which could almost be classified as a slider. Whatever the specific catalyst, the initial bites often activate deep-seated burger memories, highlighting the power of simple flavors.
From a critical standpoint, the All-American burger often serves as an ideal special order for younger children navigating a picky eating phase. Its minimal toppings and universally appealing flavors make it a safe and satisfying choice. For instance, the burger is predominantly flavored by ketchup, and for those particularly sensitive to textures or tastes, the pickles can be easily omitted, further simplifying the meal to suit even the most discerning palates.
Despite its bare-bones nature, or perhaps because of it, this burger reveals a fundamental truth about McDonald’s menu. The basic combination of flavors and textures present in the All-American burger—the soft bun, savory patty, sweet ketchup, and tart pickle—forms the foundational blueprint for every other burger on the menu. In this sense, the All-American burger can be seen as the ‘Big Bang’ of McDonald’s, representing the elemental core from which all its more complex burger creations ultimately derive.
All-American Burger
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chuck or sirloin, salt, ground black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and egg until just mixed. Do not overmix.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form them into ¾-inch thick patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Preheat a grill or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- While patties cook, slice the large onion, tomato, and wash lettuce leaves, preparing all burger toppings.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness, flipping only once to achieve a good sear.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt.
- Lightly toast the onion rolls, either on the grill, in the skillet, or under a broiler, until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers: place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted onion roll, followed by a cheeseburger patty.
- Top with slices of tomato, onion, and dill-pickle chips.
- Place the top half of the onion roll and serve immediately.
Notes
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4. **Caramel Apple Sundae**Swapping out french fries for apple slices is often a perceived step towards a healthier choice at McDonald’s. However, incorporating those very apple slices into a caramel sundae demonstrates a delightful subversion of this notion, proving that wise choices can still be incredibly indulgent. This inventive twist on a classic McDonald’s sundae caters to those who appreciate the rich caramel notes found in the Apple Pie Shake but are seeking a dessert that feels lighter or simply wish to avoid the potential of scorching their fingertips on a hot pie.
This particular secret menu item is remarkably easy to order and assemble. The core components are a caramel sundae, typically falling within the Sweets & Treats price range of $2.20 to $5.99, and a side of apple slices, which are a healthier option available for $1.39. Once you have these, the assembly is left to your preference: either directly add the apple slices into the sundae to mix the flavors, or use the sundae as a luxurious dipping sauce for the apple slices, creating a personal caramel fondue experience.
While the concept is undeniably appealing, it’s worth noting that the apples themselves can sometimes be perceived as the weaker link in this delightful duo. The apple slices provided by McDonald’s are not the crisp, tart Granny Smith variety that typically best complements the rich, sweet caramel flavor found in many upscale desserts. Their milder flavor and softer texture mean they don’t always provide the desired bright counterpoint to the sundae’s sweetness, which is something to consider when setting expectations.
To enhance the textural balance and introduce an additional layer of flavor, some enthusiasts suggest adding peanuts to the caramel apple sundae. Peanuts, with their satisfying crunch and savory notes, can significantly elevate the experience, helping to counteract any underwhelming aspects of the apple slices. Even without this bonus crunch, however, the caramel apple sundae remains a thoroughly enjoyable and clever way to incorporate a serving of fruit into a decadently sweet treat, fulfilling that promise of eating an apple while indulging in a delicious dessert.
Caramel Apple Sundae Bar recipes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine sugar, water, and light corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil. Cook until the syrup turns a deep amber color, occasionally swirling the pan and brushing down any sugar crystals from the sides with a wet pastry brush.
- While the sugar cooks, gently warm the heavy cream and butter in a separate small saucepan or microwave until melted and warm, then stir in the lemon juice.
- Once the sugar syrup reaches a rich amber color (approximately 350°F/175°C on a candy thermometer), remove it from the heat.
- Carefully and slowly pour the warm cream-butter mixture into the hot sugar, whisking constantly. Be prepared for it to bubble up vigorously.
- Continue whisking until the caramel is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the caramel reaches your desired thickness. For a thicker sauce, cook to 245°F (118°C).
- Remove the caramel from the heat. At this point, you can stir in a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor, if desired.
- Allow the caramel to cool slightly in the saucepan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a heatproof container.
- Serve the warm caramel as a topping for apple sundaes or store it in the refrigerator for future use, reheating gently when needed.
Notes
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5. **Surf and Turf**The concept of a ‘Surf and Turf’ at McDonald’s, while initially appearing as a curious culinary fusion, actually emerged as a not-so-secret menu hack around 2022. The most common interpretation involves adding a Filet-O-Fish patty to a McDouble. However, this particular combination raised some eyebrows among purists due to the typical condiments accompanying a McDouble, as ketchup and mustard are generally considered unsuitable pairings for a fish patty. This highlights a common challenge in secret menu creations: finding harmonious flavor profiles.
For those seeking a more integrated and, arguably, superior McDonald’s Surf and Turf experience, the consensus shifts towards a different base: the Big Mac. The logic here is compelling. By swapping out the middle Big Mac bun with a Filet-O-Fish patty, you instantly elevate the flavor profile. Crucially, this modification means that instead of the clashing ketchup and mustard, you now have the iconic Big Mac sauce, which, with its creamy, tangy notes, is remarkably similar to tartar sauce – a traditional accompaniment for fried fish. This simple swap transforms the entire dish.
This redesigned sandwich concoction shares certain characteristics with the Big McChicken in its layered complexity, but many argue that the fish patty simply integrates more effectively when nestled between two beef burgers. The Filet-O-Fish patty offers a lighter, more yielding texture compared to chicken, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the beef. Each bite delivers the familiar Big Mac richness, but with an intriguing hint of crispiness and fried fish flavor, creating a unique and surprisingly harmonious blend of ‘surf’ and ‘turf’ components.
The strategic use of Big Mac sauce is truly the game-changer here, tying the distinct flavors of beef and fish together in a way that plain ketchup and mustard simply cannot. It underscores how integral McDonald’s proprietary sauces are to the overall appeal and potential for innovation within their menu. This fusion demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of flavor pairing, allowing customers to craft a balanced and adventurous meal from readily available ingredients, transcending the ordinary fast-food experience.
One-Pot Surf and Turf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the separated salsiccia meat and brown, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through. Remove sausage and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pot.
- Add cubed onion and thinly sliced fennel to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and crushed chilies, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with dry white wine and Pernod, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the liquid to reduce by half.
- Return the cooked salsiccia to the pot. Add the mussel seasoning and fresh tarragon sprigs.
- Add the cleaned mussels to the pot, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until mussels have opened. Discard any unopened mussels.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the giant king prawns to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh dill, and season with freshly ground pepper and salt to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices.
Notes
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6. **Fries with Big Mac Sauce**When it comes to enjoying McDonald’s World-Famous Fries, widely considered among the best fast-food fries available, the general consensus is that they are so good on their own that additional condiments aren’t usually a priority. Their perfect balance of crispness and fluffy interior, combined with just the right amount of salt, makes them a standalone triumph. However, the idea of pairing them with a side of Big Mac sauce began to circulate among adventurous diners, sparking curiosity about this unconventional combination.
Many were intrigued by the prospect, given that mayonnaise-based aiolis are renowned for their delicious pairing with fries. Considering that Big Mac sauce is itself a mayo-based condiment, the logical assumption was that this combination would be an instant hit. The theory seemed sound, promising a richer, more complex dipping experience than standard ketchup. It presented an opportunity to elevate the beloved fries with a signature McDonald’s flavor typically reserved for their flagship burger.
Upon trying this pairing, the experience, while not entirely bad, often falls short of the high expectations set by the initial concept. The Big Mac sauce, while delicious on its namesake burger, leans more heavily on its acidic notes than on sweetness, which is a key characteristic of why ketchup works so well with McDonald’s fries. Ketchup provides a ramped-up sweetness that perfectly complements the salty potatoes, creating a balanced flavor profile that the Big Mac sauce struggles to replicate as a primary fry dip.
The overall result for many is an order of fries that tastes somewhat like sweet pickle juice has been inadvertently spilled on them, rather than a gourmet aioli. While some might find this tangy profile appealing, it doesn’t offer the universally satisfying sweetness that ketchup does. For those determined to make this combination work, a potential solution could be to create a custom condiment by finding the right ratio of Big Mac sauce to ketchup and mixing them. Nevertheless, the intrinsic quality of McDonald’s fries means they remain an exceptional treat, whether enjoyed plain or with any condiment, affirming their enduring popularity.
Continuing our exploration of McDonald’s hidden culinary landscape, the ingenuity of customers in crafting bespoke meals truly shines. These remaining secret menu items underscore the versatility of McDonald’s ingredients and the potential for a deeply personalized dining experience, allowing patrons to venture beyond the standardized offerings and discover new favorites.
Big Mac Crispy Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to create the Big Mac sauce; set aside.
- In another small bowl, combine the ground chuck with 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 3/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned ground chuck and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Wipe the skillet clean. Add the cooked and cooled white rice to the skillet, pressing it into an even layer. Cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, without stirring, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Arrange the American cheese slices evenly over the crispy rice. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully transfer the crispy rice ‘patties’ to serving plates.
- Top each crispy rice patty with the browned ground chuck.
- Drizzle generously with the prepared Big Mac sauce.
- Garnish with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced white onion, and pickle slices.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
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7. **Grilled Cheese**The McDonald’s Grilled Cheese sandwich represents a prime example of customer-driven customization, essentially a deconstructed cheeseburger that strips away all but the essentials. It is fundamentally a regular McDonald’s bun with a slice of classic American cheese, embodying a simplicity that belies its comfort food status. This makes it an especially accessible option for those seeking a straightforward, satisfying snack or meal.
For discerning grilled cheese enthusiasts, a simple request for the bun to be toasted a bit longer can elevate the experience, ensuring the cheese reaches that perfect, gooey, melty consistency. However, even without this specific instruction, the sandwich typically arrives with the cheese adequately softened and melted, demonstrating the efficiency of McDonald’s kitchen operations in meeting such basic, yet beloved, modifications. A standard Hamburger costs $3.59, while a Cheeseburger costs $4.09, making this custom item potentially even more budget-friendly.
From a culinary perspective, while it may not rival artisan grilled cheeses, this humble offering delivers precisely what one expects: the comforting combination of toasted bread and warm, melty cheese. This core appeal is universal, proving that good food doesn’t always require complexity. It also serves a practical purpose for families, providing an ideal solution for younger diners going through a picky eating phase, offering a familiar and safe option when other menu items might be too adventurous.
This item highlights McDonald’s flexibility, proving that a menu renowned for its burgers and chicken can easily adapt to even the most basic comfort food requests. It’s a testament to the fundamental quality of their ingredients that even a simple bun and cheese can create a satisfying meal, revealing the hidden potential within their everyday offerings.
Black Bean, Grilled Pineapple and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side until distinct char marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened; then dice once cool enough to handle.
- Prepare all vegetables: chop radishes, seed and chop cucumber, finely chop jalapeño (adjusting seeds for desired heat), and chop cilantro.
- Drain and thoroughly rinse the canned black beans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced grilled pineapple, black beans, chopped radishes, cucumber, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, HERDEZ® Salsa Verde, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Fold in the crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
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8. **McGangbang**Often cited as one of McDonald’s most famous — albeit unfortunately named — secret menu creations, the McGangbang is a legendary DIY option among enthusiasts. Its construction is ingenious: it involves ordering both a McDouble and a McChicken sandwich, then splitting the McDouble to insert the entire McChicken sandwich between its two burger patties. The result is a substantial “bun-burger-bun-chicken-bun-burger-bun” situation that delivers an explosion of flavors and textures.
When fully assembled, the McGangbang presents a cartoonishly huge affair, an impressively stacked monument to fast-food fusion that can be quite challenging to handle. Before attempting to take a bite, a gentle squish is highly recommended to compress the layers, making it slightly more manageable. Both the McDouble ($7.89) and the McChicken ($4.39) are lauded for their individual value, but their combination in this hack offers an unparalleled, budget-friendly meal that truly “packs a whole lot of punch.”
Customization is key to perfecting this creation. Swapping in the Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken patties, if available, introduces an extra kick of heat that allows the chicken to distinctly stand out amidst the rich interplay of beef and cheese. Some aficionados even prefer to use a Double Cheeseburger ($5.09) instead of a McDouble ($7.89) as the base, adding an extra layer of cheese to further enhance the indulgent experience and deepen the overall flavor profile.
The McGangbang stands as a testament to the creative spirit of McDonald’s customers, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with existing menu items. It transforms two popular, affordable sandwiches into a single, cohesive, and incredibly satisfying meal, demonstrating how simple additions can lead to an entirely new and impactful dining experience that is both filling and flavorful.
9. **Monster Mac**For those who believe the Big Mac, the undisputed ruler of the McDonald’s menu, still leaves something to be desired in terms of sheer size, the Monster Mac steps in to answer that call. This formidable creation dares to imagine an even grander burger, featuring double or even triple the number of beef patties and a generous addition of extra cheese, pushing the boundaries of what a single burger can be.
Ordering a Monster Mac can be done directly at the register by requesting a Big Mac ($7.89) with anywhere from two to four additional patties. Alternatively, a more pragmatic approach is to simply order a standard Big Mac and a separate Double Cheeseburger ($5.09) or McDouble ($7.89), then assemble the extra patties into your Big Mac yourself. The additional burger patties undeniably add significant heft to an already beefy offering, transforming it into a truly monumental meal. Maintaining the correct burger-to-cheese ratio is crucial to ensure a balanced flavor throughout this colossal sandwich.
To truly maximize the flavor of this beast, securing extra Big Mac sauce is highly recommended, as its tangy creaminess is essential for tying together the extensive layers of beef and cheese. Additionally, the inclusion of pickles is not merely optional but a necessity; their sharp, acidic contrast is vital for cutting through the immense richness of all that burger meat, ensuring each bite remains engaging and prevents flavor fatigue.
While the Monster Mac demands a bit more investment in terms of price and assembly effort, it represents an iconic challenge for any devoted McDonald’s fan. It’s one of those experiential menu hacks that, despite its daunting scale, every true connoisseur should endeavor to try at least once, showcasing the ultimate potential for customization within the McDonald’s burger lineup.
Monster Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spinach fusilli to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- During the last minute of pasta cooking, add the fresh baby spinach to the pot to wilt.
- Drain the pasta and spinach thoroughly using a colander; set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, grate the pepper jack and Sage Derby (or sharp Cheddar) cheeses.
- In a separate saucepan, gently heat the evaporated milk over medium-low heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to form a slurry; stir this into the warm evaporated milk.
- Gradually add the grated cheeses to the milk mixture, stirring constantly with a whisk until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
- Return the drained pasta and spinach to the large pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
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10. **Poor Man’s Big Mac**In stark contrast to the extravagance of the Monster Mac, the Poor Man’s Big Mac offers a strategic bid to capture the essence of McDonald’s flagship burger for a fraction of the cost and with fewer carbs. This ingenious hack focuses on replicating the iconic Big Mac flavor profile using more affordable base ingredients, showcasing a savvy approach to value-driven dining.
The most effective way to construct this budget-friendly alternative is to begin with a McDouble ($7.89) or, for those craving a touch more dairy, a Double Cheeseburger ($5.09). The key modification lies in requesting Big Mac sauce and extra lettuce in lieu of the standard ketchup and mustard. This simple substitution instantly transforms the humble McDouble into a remarkably convincing approximation of its pricier counterpart, delivering the distinctive taste that defines the Big Mac experience.
While a traditional Big Mac remains a classic, the Poor Man’s Big Mac remarkably scratches many of the same culinary itches. It provides that iconic combination of beef and American cheese, perfectly complemented by the subtly sweet and tangy pickled flavor of the Big Mac sauce – arguably the most defining element of the original sandwich. The inclusion of extra lettuce, while not always a personal must-have for every diner, undeniably contributes significantly to capturing the visual and textural “vibes” of a full-sized Big Mac.
This secret menu item underscores a critical aspect of McDonald’s appeal: its flexibility and the potential for smart, economical choices. It empowers customers to enjoy a similar flavor experience without the added cost or complexity, highlighting how a deep understanding of the menu can lead to a highly personalized and satisfying meal that prioritizes both taste and value.
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11. **Soft Serve Float**Bringing a delightful wave of nostalgia, the Soft Serve Float at McDonald’s harks back to the classic soda fountain treats often associated with the smaller burger joints that pre-dated and helped kickstart brands like McDonald’s. Crafting this creamy confection at the Golden Arches is remarkably simple and “no sweat,” provided one avoids overfilling their beverage cup initially.
Given that most McDonald’s soft drink options are conveniently self-serve, the preparation begins by ordering any desired beverage, such as a Coca-Cola ($2.23) or Fanta Orange ($2.23), alongside a vanilla soft serve. A Vanilla Cone is available for $2.20, or a Vanilla Shake for $4.12, providing the creamy component. While the soft serve is being prepared, patrons should fill their cup approximately halfway with their chosen soda. Once the dessert is ready, the soft serve is then gently tipped or slid into the drink, initiating the magical fizz and blend.
Many connoisseurs find that a soft serve float surpasses a regular ice cream float any day of the week. Its inherently smooth and creamy texture ensures that it tends to melt more rapidly and seamlessly into the soda, creating a harmonious mixture. After a few gentle stirs, the inevitable “lovely, drinkable convergence of soda and ice cream” is attained, capturing the very essence that makes floats so universally magical and refreshing.
Whether one is partial to the timeless effervescence of a Coke float or enjoys the vibrant, citrusy kick of an Orange Fanta float, the array of available McDonald’s soft drink options means there is truly “no wrong way” to create this delightful dessert. It exemplifies how basic menu items can be transformed into a personalized, nostalgic treat that offers both refreshment and indulgence.
Old-Fashioned Pierogies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Whisk eggs with approximately 1/2 cup water. Gradually add the liquid to the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Potato Filling: Peel and chop potatoes into even pieces. Place in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, then drain thoroughly.
- Mash and Mix Filling: Mash the hot potatoes until smooth. Grate the extra sharp cheese and fold it into the mashed potatoes. Season generously with salt to taste, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the rested dough into two or three portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion out to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut Dough Rounds: Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles from the rolled dough. Gather scraps, re-knead gently, and re-roll to cut more circles.
- Fill Pierogies: Place a small spoonful (about 1-2 teaspoons) of the potato-cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Seal Pierogies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal, crimping with a fork if desired for a decorative edge and extra security.
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pierogies: Carefully drop pierogies into the boiling water, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes after they float to the surface, until cooked through.
- Remove and Serve: Remove cooked pierogies with a slotted spoon. Serve immediately, perhaps tossed with melted butter and sautéed onions, or with sour cream.
Notes
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12. **Neapolitan Milkshake**For those who harbor a secret hankering for the classic Neapolitan ice cream experience – that perfectly balanced trifecta of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors – the Neapolitan Milkshake menu hack at McDonald’s is an absolute must-try. This combination works exceptionally well due to the signature smooth consistency of McDonald’s milkshakes, which allows for a delightful, drinkable blend of these beloved flavors.
While many milkshake aficionados often prefer their shakes thick enough to require a spoon, this particular trio of flavors truly shines in its more fluid, sippable form. The blend creates a harmonious taste profile where each flavor contributes without overwhelming the others, resulting in a unique and satisfying dessert experience that pays homage to the traditional Neapolitan dessert.
To create this delectable treat, the process involves ordering a vanilla shake ($4.12) and then requesting that equal parts of chocolate shake ($4.12) and strawberry shake ($4.12) be added into the mix. Alternatively, for those who prefer a more hands-on approach or face limited customization options at the counter, it’s entirely possible to make one of these yourself by ordering all three shakes separately and carefully blending them together.
This secret menu item beautifully showcases the potential for simple yet impactful customizations within McDonald’s “Sweets & Treats” menu. It allows customers to enjoy a sophisticated, multi-layered flavor profile from readily available ingredients, transforming individual shake options into a cohesive and delightful dessert symphony that caters to a specific, nostalgic craving.
Neapolitan Milkshake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Ensure bananas are sliced and thoroughly frozen until solid prior to preparation.
- Divide the total almond milk (9 tbsp) into three equal portions of approximately 3 tablespoons each.
- In a high-speed blender, combine one portion of frozen banana, one portion of almond milk, and the pure vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Transfer this ‘vanilla’ base into a chilled small bowl or glass and set aside.
- Rinse the blender thoroughly. Add another portion of frozen banana, one portion of almond milk, and the fresh strawberries. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant ‘strawberry’ base. Transfer and set aside.
- Rinse the blender again. Combine the remaining frozen banana, the final portion of almond milk, and the cocoa powder. Blend until smooth, forming the ‘chocolate’ base.
- Carefully layer the three distinct milkshake bases (vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate) into two chilled serving glasses, creating the classic Neapolitan striped effect.
- Serve the Neapolitan milkshake immediately to enjoy its refreshing temperature and distinct layered flavors.
Notes
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As we conclude our deep dive into McDonald’s secret menu, it’s clear that the world’s most ubiquitous fast-food chain offers far more than its official signage suggests. These ingenious customer-driven creations, from the straightforward Grilled Cheese to the elaborate McGangbang, highlight an often-overlooked dimension of the McDonald’s experience: the power of personalization. Beyond the advertised burgers and fries, there’s a vibrant subculture of diners who continually push culinary boundaries, transforming everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. This exploration reveals not just the creativity of patrons, but the underlying versatility of McDonald’s menu itself, proving that with a little imagination and a polite request, a truly unique and satisfying dining adventure awaits at the Golden Arches.
