McDonald’s dollar menu, also known as the $1-$2-$3 Dollar Menu, offers a variety of tasty food options at budget-friendly prices. With menu items costing only $1, $2, or $3, you can enjoy the classic McDonald’s flavor without breaking the bank. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about McDonald’s $1 menu items, prices, and how to get the best deals.
Overview of McDonald’s $1 Menu
McDonald’s $1 menu features a rotating selection of the chain’s most popular food and beverage items at an unbeatable $1 price point. The $1 menu items may vary by location but often include:
- Small size fries
- McChicken sandwich
- Cheeseburger
- Baked Apple Pie
- Small soft drink
- Iced coffee
- Hash browns
- Vanilla cone
- McDouble sandwich
The dollar menu allows customers to mix and match affordable favorites to create a quick, customizable meal. It’s an easy way to enjoy classic McDonald’s taste on a tight budget.
Full List of Current McDonald’s $1 Menu Items
While selections rotate frequently, here is a look at some of the most common $1 menu items currently available at participating McDonald’s locations:
$1 Burgers and Sandwiches
- Hamburger
- Cheeseburger
- McDouble
- Bacon McDouble
- McChicken
$1 Sides
- Small fries
- 4 piece chicken McNuggets
- 3 piece mozzarella sticks
- Side salad
$1 Breakfast
- Hash browns
- Sausage burrito
- Cinnamon melts
- Bacon, egg & cheese biscuit
$1 Beverages
- Any size soft drink
- Small McCafe coffee
- Small iced coffee
- Vanilla cone
$1 Desserts
- Baked apple pie
- Chocolate chip cookie
- Vanilla sundae
McDonald’s also offers $2 and $3 value menu items like the McChicken meal, 6 piece nuggets, and more substantial sandwiches.
How McDonald’s $1 Menu Prices Compare
Dollar menus allow customers to get a basic McDonald’s meal for under $5 after tax. Here’s how McDonald’s $1 menu prices compare:
- McDonald’s: Cheeseburger, fries, and drink for $3
- Wendy’s: Jr. Cheeseburger, fries, and drink for $4
- Burger King: Cheeseburger, fries, and drink for $4
- Taco Bell: Bean burrito, chips, and drink for $3
The McDonald’s dollar menu offers the most affordable combo meal value among major fast food chains. You can easily mix and match dollar items to stay under budget.
How to Get the Best Deals on McDonald’s $1 Menu
Take advantage of these tips to maximize savings on McDonald’s $1 menu:
- Check the McDonald’s app for exclusive dollar menu coupons
- Visit during Happy Hour (prices may be reduced further)
- Order through the self-order kiosk for potential mobile order deals
- Sign up for McDonald’s email list to receive special offers
- Buy multiple dollar menu items in bulk to stock up the freezer
- Split dollar menu items with friends to save on individual orders
- Substitute drink for water cup and ask for free refills
Being strategic with your dollar menu orders can help you save even more at McDonald’s.
Most Popular Items on McDonald’s $1 Menu
These affordable menu items are customer favorites:
- Small Fries – Crispy, salty fries are hard to beat for only $1.
- McChicken – A crispy chicken patty with mayo at a steal.
- Cheeseburger – The classic burger with ketchup, mustard, onions, and pickle.
- McDouble – A double cheeseburger with just one beef patty.
- Hash Browns – Golden, crispy potato hash browns make a filling side.
- Vanilla Soft Serve Cone – Creamy and sweet soft serve in a crunchy cone.
- Soda – An ice cold fountain soda completes the meal.
Mix and match a few dollar menu selections for the perfect budget-friendly meal.
Nutrition Information on McDonald’s $1 Menu
While affordable, dollar menu items should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some nutrition facts to keep in mind:
- Small fries: 230 calories, 10g fat
- Cheeseburger: 300 calories, 12g fat
- McChicken: 370 calories, 16g fat
- 4 pc nuggets: 190 calories, 12g fat
- Hash browns: 150 calories, 8g fat
Dollar menu items make it easy to rack up calories, fat, and sodium quickly. Be mindful of portions and accompany these items with healthier sides like fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions About McDonald’s Dollar Menu
Is McDonald’s dollar menu available all day?
Yes, McDonald’s dollar menu is available all day during regular restaurant hours. However, breakfast items may only be available until 10:30 am.
Are McDonald’s dollar menu items smaller portions?
Most are regular sized portions, like a standard cheeseburger or small fries. However, some items like the 4 piece nuggets are a smaller serving.
Does McDonald’s still have a dollar menu?
Yes, while options change, McDonald’s still offers a value menu with items from $1-$3 at participating locations. It is now called the $1-$2-$3 Dollar Menu.
Are McDonald’s dollar menu items healthy?
No, most dollar menu items are high in calories, fat, sodium, and refined carbs. Enjoy in moderation as an occasional treat.
The Bottom Line on McDonald’s $1 Menu
For those looking to eat at McDonald’s on a tight budget, the dollar menu offers a lineup of the chain’s most iconic food items at an unbeatable price point. Take advantage of $1 deals on sandwiches, fries, desserts, and drinks to customize an affordable McDonald’s combo. Just be mindful of nutrition and portion sizes when ordering off the dollar menu. Follow these tips to get the best value from McDonald’s budget-friendly offerings.
