When it comes to McDonald’s, everyone has their go-to order—but what about the hidden gems flying under the radar? While the drive-thru regulars like the Big Mac and French Fries rightfully steal the spotlight, there’s a whole lineup of lesser-known items that deserve some serious love. In this list, we’re spotlighting 12 bestselling McDonald’s dishes that customers can’t get enough of—alongside 12 underrated menu picks that might just surprise you. Whether you’re a loyal fan or a curious foodie, these picks will help you shake up your next Mickey D’s run with something tried-and-true or totally unexpected.
1. BESTSELLING: French Fries
Crispy, golden, and dangerously addictive—McDonald’s French Fries are the undisputed champion of fast-food sides. Perfectly salted and served piping hot, they’ve achieved cult status for good reason. Whether you’re dipping them in ketchup, barbecue sauce, or even a McFlurry (we won’t judge), these fries manage to stay light and flavorful every time. Made from premium potatoes and cooked in a canola blend oil, they strike the ideal balance between crunch and fluff. People have tried to replicate them at home, but nothing quite compares. If you’ve ever visited McDonald’s and skipped the fries, you’ve missed half the magic.
2. BESTSELLING: Big Mac
Introduced in 1967, the Big Mac isn’t just a burger—it’s a fast-food icon. Its legendary status comes from that double-decker setup: two all-beef patties, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and the signature “special sauce,” all cradled between three layers of sesame seed bun.
It’s a combination that defies logic but works perfectly, delivering a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet bite every time. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or simply hungry, the Big Mac’s layered complexity makes it feel more like a meal than a mere sandwich. Few menu items have inspired such loyalty or imitators, and yet the original still reigns supreme.
3. BESTSELLING: Chicken McNuggets
You’re never too old to crave a box of Chicken McNuggets. These golden, bite-sized beauties offer comfort food at its crunchiest. With their light, peppery breading and juicy white meat interior, McNuggets are tailor-made for dipping—whether it’s tangy barbecue, creamy ranch, or the fan-favorite sweet ‘n sour sauce. Their consistent texture and flavor have made them a kid-friendly classic and an adult guilty pleasure. They also travel surprisingly well, staying crisp longer than you’d expect. Whether you’re ordering four or twenty, they’re the kind of snack that disappears faster than you can say, “I should’ve gotten the bigger box.”
4. BESTSELLING: Egg McMuffin
Mornings changed forever when McDonald’s debuted the Egg McMuffin. A freshly cracked egg, Canadian bacon, and a slice of melted cheese are all sandwiched inside a perfectly toasted English muffin. It’s simple, satisfying, and still manages to feel like a full breakfast in the palm of your hand.
Unlike many fast-food breakfasts, the Egg McMuffin actually tastes like real food—and that’s its magic. The egg is cooked just right, the muffin has structure without being dry, and the overall result is warm, savory bliss. It’s the gold standard for fast breakfasts and a top choice for early risers everywhere.
5. BESTSELLING: Quarter Pounder with Cheese
Built for beef lovers, the Quarter Pounder with Cheese is all about bold, meaty flavor. Unlike other McDonald’s burgers, this one uses a fresh—not frozen—quarter-pound patty that’s cooked to order. It’s seared to perfection and topped with two slices of American cheese, slivered onions, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. The beefy patty steals the spotlight, delivering a juicy bite with every mouthful. If you like a straightforward, hearty burger that puts meat front and center, this is the one to grab. It’s rich, filling, and has earned a permanent spot on the menu for good reason—it just hits different.
6. BESTSELLING: McFlurry
Dessert at McDonald’s doesn’t get more fun than the McFlurry. This frozen treat combines creamy vanilla soft serve with crushed-up goodies like OREO® cookies or M&M’s candies, all blended together with that signature spoon-spinner. It’s a textural dream—cool, smooth, and loaded with crunch.
While the machine’s availability may be the butt of many jokes, the payoff is always worth it when it’s working. Each spoonful feels like a little surprise, thanks to the uneven swirl of mix-ins. Whether you’re rounding off a meal or stopping in just for dessert, the McFlurry is a playful, crave-worthy classic.
7. BESTSELLING: McCafé® Coffee
Fast food and great coffee don’t usually go hand in hand—unless you’re at McDonald’s. The McCafé line offers an impressively solid cup of joe, with Premium Roast Coffee that’s hot, smooth, and never burnt. Whether you’re ordering it black, sweetened, iced, or topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle, McCafé has something for every kind of caffeine lover. It’s affordable, reliable, and surprisingly good, making it a favorite among commuters and early birds alike. With expanded options like lattes, mochas, and seasonal flavors, McDonald’s has earned its stripes in the coffee game—and not just as a fast-food add-on.
8. BESTSELLING: Filet-O-Fish
Not every burger joint dares to serve fish—but McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish continues to swim against the tide. A warm, steamed bun cradles a lightly breaded fish fillet topped with creamy tartar sauce and a slice of American cheese. It’s soft, savory, and unexpectedly satisfying, especially during Lent when it gains seasonal popularity.
While it’s not for everyone, those who love it really love it. The flavors are mild but comforting, making it one of the most underrated items to achieve long-term menu success. If you’ve never tried one, it just might surprise you with its simple, nostalgic appeal.
9. BESTSELLING: Sausage McMuffin with Egg
For a breakfast with a bit more heft, the Sausage McMuffin with Egg gets the job done. It swaps Canadian bacon for a juicy sausage patty, giving this sandwich a savory, satisfying flavor punch. Combined with a freshly cracked egg, melted cheese, and a toasted English muffin, it’s the kind of breakfast that keeps you full well into the morning. It’s slightly saltier and richer than the classic Egg McMuffin, which makes it a hit for those who want a bit more indulgence in the A.M. hours. Add a hash brown and coffee, and you’ve got a full breakfast win.
10. BESTSELLING: McDouble
Budget-friendly without skimping on taste, the McDouble is one of McDonald’s best values. Two beef patties, one slice of cheese, pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard come together in a compact burger that still feels filling. It’s similar to the Double Cheeseburger, but with a little less cheese and a lot more savings.
The ratio of meat to bun is spot-on, and the tangy kick from the condiments keeps things interesting. Whether you’re on a tight budget or just want something snack-sized, the McDouble delivers solid flavor and surprising satisfaction at a price that won’t make you flinch.
11. BESTSELLING: Hash Browns
Sometimes the simplest things are the most irresistible. McDonald’s Hash Browns are golden, crisp, and wonderfully greasy in all the right ways. They come in that familiar paper sleeve, ready to be devoured one crunchy bite at a time. Perfect on their own or as a side to your breakfast sandwich, they strike the ideal balance between fluffy potato interior and deep-fried shell. Whether you’re eating them on the go or adding one to your McMuffin like a breakfast hack, these hash browns are a morning essential. There’s no wrong time to enjoy one—just make sure it’s hot.
12. BESTSELLING: Apple Pie
With its iconic sleeve and sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling, the McDonald’s Apple Pie is fast food’s most nostalgic dessert. The crust is flaky and golden, the apple filling is warm and gooey, and the flavor balance hits just right.
Unlike many fast-food desserts, this one actually feels like it has personality. It’s been on the menu for decades, and although the recipe has changed over the years, its popularity hasn’t. Whether you enjoy it solo or pair it with a soft serve cone for a makeshift à la mode, the apple pie remains a timeless treat worth saving room for.
13. UNDERRATED: Spicy Chicken McNuggets
McDonald’s regular nuggets are a fan favorite—but the Spicy Chicken McNuggets turn up the heat in the best way possible. Featuring the same satisfying crunch as the original, these fiery bites pack a subtle cayenne kick that lingers just enough to make you reach for your drink. Best of all, they retain the same tender, juicy white meat inside. Available only during limited runs, they’ve developed a cult following, and it’s easy to see why. Dip them in ranch or honey mustard for contrast, or go full heat with spicy buffalo. Either way, they’re a crave-worthy twist on a classic.
14. UNDERRATED: McCrispy
Introduced with little fanfare, the McCrispy might just be McDonald’s most slept-on chicken sandwich. It features a seasoned, extra-crispy chicken fillet, tangy pickles, and buttered potato roll—all intentionally simple to let the ingredients shine.
The fillet is juicy, the breading perfectly crisp, and the roll soft enough to complement the crunch without falling apart. It’s a straightforward approach, and it works. If you’re over the flashy chicken wars and want something reliably good, this sandwich checks all the boxes. It’s proof that McDonald’s can hold its own in the premium chicken space without reinventing the wheel.
15. UNDERRATED: Shake (Vanilla, Chocolate, or Strawberry)
Often overshadowed by the more attention-grabbing McFlurry, McDonald’s classic milkshakes remain a delicious throwback. Available in vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry, each shake is thick, creamy, and indulgent without going overboard. They’re made with soft serve and flavored syrups, then topped with whipped cream for good measure. These shakes are sweet enough to feel like a treat but not so rich they become overwhelming. Whether you’re pairing one with a burger or sipping it solo on a warm day, they hit that nostalgic note just right. Sometimes, simple really is better—and these shakes prove it every single time.
16. UNDERRATED: McPlant Burger
McDonald’s foray into the plant-based world might not have made headlines, but the McPlant Burger is a solid alternative worth trying. Co-developed with Beyond Meat, it features a juicy, meat-free patty that mimics the flavor and texture of beef impressively well.
Add in the traditional toppings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, and cheese—and you’ve got a burger that satisfies meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The toasted sesame bun holds it all together, and the overall experience is surprisingly indulgent. If you’re exploring flexitarian options or just curious about the meatless trend, the McPlant is a tasty and satisfying entry point.
17. UNDERRATED: Deluxe McCrispy™
Looking for a chicken sandwich with a little more flair? The Deluxe McCrispy™ steps things up with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and creamy mayo layered over McDonald’s crispy chicken filet. Served on a buttered potato roll, it offers the same juicy crunch as the original McCrispy but with an added boost of freshness and richness. The vegetables lighten things up just enough, making it feel more like a full sandwich experience rather than a fast-food afterthought. If you like your comfort food with a bit of balance and texture, this underrated gem is definitely worth adding to your rotation.
18. UNDERRATED: Hotcakes
Breakfast lovers know the underrated magic of McDonald’s Hotcakes. Served in a trio with butter and sweet maple-flavored syrup, these golden brown pancakes are warm, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether eaten on their own or alongside a sausage patty and hash brown, they’re the kind of classic comfort food that never goes out of style. The syrup soaks in beautifully, giving each bite a tender, buttery finish. They’re fast, consistent, and remarkably satisfying for a quick breakfast on the go. If you’ve overlooked these in favor of sandwiches, it’s time to give them another shot.
19. UNDERRATED: Fruit & Maple Oatmeal
Looking for something light yet satisfying? McDonald’s Fruit & Maple Oatmeal delivers on both fronts. It starts with whole-grain oats and adds a mix of red and green apples, raisins, and cranberries, plus a hint of brown sugar. The result is warm, slightly sweet, and bursting with texture.
It’s a heartier option for those who want something nourishing without diving into heavier fare. Whether you’re starting your day or looking for a mid-morning pick-me-up, it’s a surprisingly wholesome item from the same kitchen that serves Big Macs. Healthy-ish and flavorful? That’s a win in our book.
20. UNDERRATED: Sausage Burrito
This compact breakfast wrap doesn’t always get the love it deserves—but it should. The Sausage Burrito packs fluffy scrambled eggs, spicy pork sausage, melty cheese, green chiles, and onions into a soft flour tortilla, creating a warm, savory bite in every mouthful. It’s handheld, convenient, and full of flavor without feeling greasy or overdone. It’s also one of the more affordable breakfast options on the menu, making it ideal for busy mornings. If you’re in the mood for something different than the standard McMuffin or biscuit, the burrito brings a little spice and variety to your morning routine.
21. UNDERRATED: Spicy McCrispy™
If you like your chicken with a little heat, the Spicy McCrispy™ is calling your name. It takes the base McCrispy sandwich and amps things up with a spicy pepper sauce that adds a fiery kick without drowning out the flavor. The crunchy chicken filet still shines, and the toasted potato bun holds it together beautifully. No extra bells and whistles—just a bold twist on a reliable favorite. It’s spicy enough to satisfy heat seekers but balanced enough for everyday eaters. Pair it with a side of fries and a milkshake, and you’ve got a meal that hits every craving.
22. UNDERRATED: Hot Chocolate
McDonald’s Hot Chocolate might not be the first thing you think of when you’re ordering a drink—but it absolutely should be. Made with steamed milk and rich cocoa syrup, then topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate, it’s smooth, sweet, and delightfully cozy.
It’s the perfect winter drink or comforting pick-me-up on a gloomy day. While it’s typically more common in colder months, some locations carry it year-round. Either way, it’s a warm, chocolatey surprise worth checking out—especially if you’re not in the mood for coffee but still want something indulgent in your cup.
23. UNDERRATED: Chocolate Chip Cookie
Among McDonald’s dessert offerings, the Chocolate Chip Cookie often gets overshadowed—but it’s lowkey one of the best things on the menu. Soft, chewy, and generously studded with melty chocolate chips, it feels homemade in the best way. Warm it up for the ultimate gooey treat or grab one on the go when you need a sweet fix. It’s affordable, portable, and surprisingly satisfying for a fast-food cookie. Whether you’re pairing it with coffee, sneaking it in with your McNuggets, or just craving something classic, this cookie delivers the kind of simple joy that never gets old.
24. Apple Slices
Think McDonald’s can’t do fresh? The Apple Slices prove otherwise. Crisp, cool, and naturally sweet, they’re a refreshing break from the heavier items on the menu. Often included in Happy Meals, these pre-sliced apples are a smart snack option for both kids and adults.
They’re especially great if you want something fruity without committing to a full dessert. Plus, they travel well and hold up in lunchboxes or dashboards alike. While not flashy, they bring balance to a fast-food meal and a reminder that even McDonald’s has its wholesome moments—without sacrificing convenience or taste.
Leave a comment