If you were grabbing burgers in the late ’90s or early 2000s, there’s a good chance you remember the McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty. It wasn’t flashy, overloaded, or gimmicky—but that was exactly its charm. Juicy beef, crisp vegetables, simple condiments, and a toasted sesame bun came together in a way that felt balanced, satisfying, and unmistakably classic.
Sadly, the Big N’ Tasty was discontinued in the U.S. in 2011, quietly disappearing from menus while more elaborate burgers took center stage. While a variation called the Big Tasty still exists in some international markets, fans of the original have been left craving that specific combination of flavors.
The good news? You can recreate it at home. This copycat McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty recipe captures everything people loved about the original—fresh toppings, a well-seasoned quarter-pound patty, and that nostalgic fast-food simplicity—while tasting even better made fresh in your own kitchen.
Why the Big N’ Tasty Was So Loved
The Big N’ Tasty stood apart because it didn’t try to be excessive. Instead, it focused on balance:
- A juicy quarter-pound beef patty
- Fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles
- Classic ketchup and mayonnaise
- A lightly toasted sesame seed bun
It was approachable, not overwhelming. Every ingredient had room to shine, and the burger didn’t rely on heavy sauces or extra cheese to carry the flavor. That simplicity is exactly what makes it such a perfect candidate for a homemade copycat version.
What Makes This Copycat Recipe Special
This version stays faithful to the original concept while improving on it in a few key ways:
- Freshly seasoned beef instead of pre-formed patties
- Perfect doneness without drying out
- Crisp, cold vegetables for contrast
- Toasted buns that hold everything together
The result is a burger that instantly transports you back to the drive-thru days—only now, it’s fresher, juicier, and fully under your control.
Ingredients for Copycat McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty Burgers
For the Beef Patties
- Ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
For Assembling the Burgers
- Sesame seed hamburger buns
- Iceberg lettuce
- Beefsteak tomato, sliced
- Sweet onion, thinly sliced
- Dill pickle slices
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to 400°F (medium-high heat). A grill pan or cast-iron skillet works well if you’re cooking indoors.
Step 2: Season the Beef
In a large bowl, add the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Mix Gently
Using your hands, gently mix until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
Step 4: Divide and Shape
Divide the beef into four equal portions and roll them into balls.
Step 5: Flatten the Patties
Press each ball into a patty about ⅓ inch thick. Try to keep the thickness even for consistent cooking.
Step 6: Grill the First Side
Place the patties on the grill, spacing them apart. Cook for about 4 minutes without moving them.
Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking
Flip the patties and cook for another 4 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Remove from heat and let rest briefly.
Step 8: Toast the Buns
Split the buns and place them cut-side down on the grill. Toast for about 1 minute, until lightly golden.
Assembling the Big N’ Tasty
Step 9: Start with the Patty
Place each beef patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
Step 10: Add Tomato
Top each patty with a thick slice of tomato.
Step 11: Layer the Vegetables
Add shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced onion, and dill pickles.
Step 12: Spread the Condiments
Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise and ketchup on the cut side of each top bun.
Step 13: Close and Serve
Place the top bun over the stacked toppings. Serve immediately while warm.
Flavor Profile: Why It Works
This burger hits all the right notes:
- Savory and juicy beef with simple seasoning
- Crunchy freshness from lettuce and onion
- Bright acidity from pickles and tomato
- Creamy, sweet balance from mayo and ketchup
There’s nothing overpowering—just a clean, classic burger flavor that’s deeply satisfying.
Tips for the Best Copycat Results
- Use fresh beef, not frozen patties
- Don’t overcook—juiciness is key
- Chill your vegetables before assembling for extra crunch
- Toast the buns lightly, not heavily
- Stick to the classics—this burger shines because it’s simple
What to Serve with Big N’ Tasty Burgers
To complete the nostalgic experience, pair these burgers with:
- Crispy fries or wedges
- A creamy milkshake
- Light salads for balance
- Spicy drinks or classic sodas
It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Why This Recipe Is Worth Making
The Big N’ Tasty wasn’t discontinued because it wasn’t good—it disappeared because menus evolved. Recreating it at home reminds us that simple food done well never goes out of style.
This recipe is perfect for:
- Weekend grilling
- Casual family dinners
- Nostalgia-driven comfort meals
- Anyone craving old-school fast-food flavor
Final Thoughts
The copycat McDonald’s Big N’ Tasty proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients or oversized burgers to create something memorable. With a juicy patty, fresh toppings, and classic condiments, this recipe brings back everything people loved about the original—and then some.
One bite, and you’re back at the Golden Arches, circa the early 2000s—only now, it’s even better.