In the wild world of fast food, where the next big hit could be a taco with a chip shell or a croissant sandwich that’s not quite what it seems, collaborations are the ultimate curveballs.
Some team-ups make you scratch your head—KFC and Crocs, really?—while others leave your taste buds doing a happy dance. But here’s the kicker: the weirdest ones often work.
Whether it’s a boy band launching a global meal phenomenon or fashion brands merging with fried chicken, these partnerships prove that the fast food universe is more imaginative (and bizarre) than we give it credit for.
Ready for a ride through the most unexpected—and oddly successful—fast food collabs? These 10 strange pairings somehow turned into cult classics, internet sensations, or full-blown cultural moments.
1. McDonald’s and BTS Meal
When McDonald’s joined forces with global K-pop sensation BTS, fans around the world were ecstatic. The BTS Meal, inspired by the group’s favorite McDonald’s orders, included 10 Chicken McNuggets, medium fries, a Coke, and two special sauces – Sweet Chili and Cajun – unique to South Korea.
The collaboration was not just about food; it was a cultural event. BTS-themed packaging and exclusive merchandise drove fans to McDonald’s outlets in droves, creating a frenzy not seen in years. Online platforms buzzed with excitement, showcasing the meal as a must-try experience.
The BTS Meal was a limited-time offer, but its impact was far-reaching. It demonstrated how fast food could tap into the global music phenomenon to create an unforgettable dining experience. Fans are still talking about it, even after the promotion ended, making it a resounding success.
2. Taco Bell and Doritos Locos Tacos
Imagine biting into a taco with a shell made entirely of Doritos. That’s exactly what Taco Bell and Doritos achieved with their Doritos Locos Tacos. This partnership took the classic Taco Bell taco and gave it an irresistible twist by using Doritos nacho cheese chips as the shell.
The result was a crunchy, flavor-packed experience that quickly became a fan favorite. Customers couldn’t get enough of the bold taste, leading to long lines and high demand. The Doritos Locos Tacos became a staple on the menu, proving that a bold idea could lead to massive success.
This collaboration not only boosted sales for Taco Bell but also reinforced Doritos’ brand as an adventurous snacking option. It showed how two seemingly unrelated products could come together to create something deliciously extraordinary.
3. Burger King and Cheetos Mac n’ Cheetos
Burger King decided to take the humble mac and cheese to new heights with the introduction of Mac n’ Cheetos. These were essentially deep-fried sticks of mac and cheese, coated in that unmistakable Cheetos dust.
The bold, cheesy flavor offered a nostalgic throwback to everyone’s favorite childhood snacks, while the crispy exterior added a satisfying crunch. It was a snack that seemed bizarre but quickly made sense with the first bite.
Mac n’ Cheetos sparked curiosity and became a popular menu item, drawing crowds eager to try this unusual yet delicious creation. The collaboration between Burger King and Cheetos was a testament to the power of combining comfort food with a popular snack brand, creating a memorable culinary experiment.
4. KFC and Crocs Limited Edition
Fashion took a fried twist when KFC teamed up with Crocs to create a limited-edition shoe. These unique Crocs featured a design reminiscent of KFC’s iconic chicken bucket, complete with fried chicken-scented Jibbitz to top it off.
The collaboration was as bizarre as it was intriguing, sparking interest from both fashion enthusiasts and fast food lovers alike. People were eager to get their hands, or rather feet, on these quirky shoes.
The limited-edition Crocs sold out almost instantly, proving that even the most unusual ideas can captivate audiences. By merging fashion with fast food, KFC and Crocs created a sensation that went beyond traditional collaborations, adding a dash of humor and creativity to the mix.
5. Pizza Hut and Cheez-It Stuffed Pizza
Pizza Hut turned heads with the introduction of the Cheez-It Stuffed Pizza. This unconventional creation resembled a giant Cheez-It cracker, with a crispy, cheesy shell filled with melted cheese and pepperoni.
The collaboration was a bold move that merged the much-loved Cheez-It snack with the classic appeal of pizza. Customers were intrigued by the novelty and drawn to try this unique offering.
Though it wasn’t a permanent menu item, the Cheez-It Stuffed Pizza left a lasting impression. It demonstrated how innovation in fast food could lead to exciting new culinary adventures
The collaboration underscored the potential for combining distinct flavors to create something entirely unexpected yet delightful.
6. Dunkin’ and Beyond Sausage Sandwich
Dunkin’ embraced the plant-based trend with its Beyond Sausage Sandwich. This breakfast delight featured a plant-based sausage patty, catering to those looking for meat alternatives without compromising on flavor.
The sandwich was a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a tasty option that fit seamlessly into Dunkin’s breakfast lineup. The collaboration with Beyond Meat showcased the growing demand for plant-based options in the fast food industry.
By providing a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional breakfast sandwiches, Dunkin’ expanded its appeal and captured a new audience. The Beyond Sausage Sandwich was more than just a menu item; it was a step towards more inclusive dining options.
7. Subway and Lay’s Potato Chip Sandwich
Subway took the crunch factor up a notch by adding Lay’s potato chips directly into their sandwiches. This unexpected twist added a new layer of texture and flavor to the classic Subway experience.
The combination of fresh ingredients with the crispy, salty goodness of Lay’s chips turned ordinary sandwiches into something extraordinary. Customers loved the novelty and the added crunch, making it a popular choice for adventurous eaters.
This collaboration highlighted the endless possibilities of fast food customization. By thinking outside the box, Subway and Lay’s created a unique offering that delighted fans and kept them coming back for more. A simple yet effective innovation that resonated with many.
8. Starbucks and Mooncakes
Starbucks added an unexpected twist to the traditional mooncake by introducing its own versions during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These mooncakes featured unique flavors such as espresso and green tea, incorporating Starbucks’ signature touch.
The collaboration was a blend of cultural tradition with modern flair, attracting both mooncake enthusiasts and Starbucks fans. It was a delightful way to celebrate the festival with a bit of Western influence.
The mooncakes were beautifully packaged, making them a popular gift choice. Starbucks’ venture into this traditional delicacy showcased their ability to innovate and adapt to cultural celebrations, offering a new take on an age-old custom.
9. Carl’s Jr. and Jolly Rancher Milkshake
Carl’s Jr. took the classic milkshake to a new level with the introduction of the Jolly Rancher Milkshake. This colorful concoction blended creamy milkshake goodness with the bold, fruity flavors of Jolly Rancher candies.
The result was a sweet and vibrant treat that appealed to both the young and the young-at-heart. The milkshake was topped with whipped cream and candy pieces, creating a visually striking and deliciously indulgent beverage.
This collaboration was a hit among candy lovers, proving that the fusion of drinks and sweets could lead to a fun and memorable experience. Carl’s Jr. successfully captured the playful essence of Jolly Rancher, turning an ordinary milkshake into a delightful adventure.
10. Wendy’s and Rick and Morty Combo Meals
Wendy’s capitalized on the popularity of the animated series Rick and Morty by launching themed combo meals. These meals featured quirky names and packaging inspired by the show’s characters and themes.
Items like the “Pickle Rick” drink became instant hits, drawing fans of the show to Wendy’s in search of their favorite references. The collaboration was not just a marketing gimmick; it was an immersive experience that resonated with fans on a personal level.
By tapping into the cultural phenomenon of Rick and Morty, Wendy’s created a unique dining experience that was both entertaining and delicious. The combo meals exemplified how fast food could intersect with pop culture to create something extraordinary.
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