McDonald’s introduced the Big Mac in 1967.
Franchisee Jim Delligatti created the sandwich in the Pittsburgh area after noticing that customers wanted a larger hamburger. The original version used two beef patties, a middle bun section, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and sauce. McDonald’s soon expanded it beyond the initial test area, turning the sandwich into one of the company’s most recognizable product brands.
The Big Mac became more than a menu item. Its name, distinctive three-part bun, and repeated advertising appearances gave McDonald’s a signature product that could anchor campaigns and comparisons. The sandwich also helped communicate the idea that McDonald’s offered a substantial, recognizable meal rather than only basic hamburgers.
A common mistake is placing the national introduction in 1968. The Big Mac was introduced in 1967, while 1968 is associated with its wider national availability in the United States. That distinction explains conflicting dates in summaries.