Christmas has arrived early for fast-food enthusiasts across the UK, as McDonald's has officially confirmed the triumphant return of a cult favourite burger, frequently hailed by fans as 'the best ever'. In an exclusive reveal, the chain announced that the legendary Big Tasty is coming back to menus for the festive season, and it has undergone a significant transformation.
What's New with the Big Tasty?
This isn't just a simple comeback; the Big Tasty has been completely revamped to offer customers more choice and an enhanced flavour profile. For the first time in the UK, patrons will be able to order the Big Tasty as either a single or a double burger. Crucially, both versions now feature beef patties that have been upgraded to a quarter pounder size, promising a more substantial bite.
Another first for the burger is the option to add bacon for an extra 90p, allowing for a customised experience. The recipe itself has seen several key changes. The previous emmental cheese has been swapped out for rich, creamy white cheddar, and the square lettuce slices have been replaced with shredded lettuce. To accommodate all these upgrades, the burger is now served in a new toasted quarter pounder bun.
The Complete Burger Breakdown
So, what exactly can customers expect to find in their box? The single Big Tasty is composed of a 100% British and Irish beef quarter pounder patty, two slices of white cheddar cheese, lettuce, onions, tomato, and the iconic, smoky Big Tasty sauce, all nestled inside a toasted sesame seed bun.
For those with a larger appetite, the Double Big Tasty includes an extra quarter pounder patty and a third additional slice of white cheddar cheese.
Official Statement and Festive Menu Details
Thomas O’Neill, Head of Menu at McDonald’s UK & Ireland, shared his excitement about the burger's return. He told Metro: ‘The Big Tasty has always been about bold, craveable flavour – and this year we’ve taken it up a notch.'
He added: 'It’s still about that unique, smoky sauce fans know and love, but now with more ways to enjoy it. And no matter how you have it, each Big Tasty is crafted with even more flavour in mind – from the 100% British and Irish quarter pounder beef patty, to the rich, creamy white cheddar cheese, every bite is packed with serious flavour satisfaction.’
The Big Tasty and Double Big Tasty will join the McDonald’s Christmas line-up later this month. Pricing is set at £7.99 for a Big Tasty Meal and £9.49 for a Double Big Tasty Meal. The chain has confirmed that delivery prices will be higher, and the full festive menu will be revealed shortly.
More Christmas Cheer from McDonald's
The good news doesn't stop with the Big Tasty. McDonald's has also launched a brand-new Christmas Happy Meal, available from November 19 for a limited time. This festive offering features a Mayo Chicken option and ties in with 'The Elf on the Shelf'.
Children can collect one of 12 plush Santaverse character toys or a book. 'Reindeer treats' in the form of carrot sticks are also on the menu, and families can look forward to character visits, face painting, and themed activity pages in restaurants.
This menu launch follows the recent UK-wide rollout of McDonald's new 'Order Ahead' feature on its app. After a successful trial in London, the technology uses geofencing to alert a restaurant when a customer is approximately three minutes away, allowing staff to begin preparing the order for immediate collection upon arrival. It is not available for Drive-Thru orders.
