McDonald’s introduced the Big Mac in 1967.
The sandwich was created by franchisee Jim Delligatti, who operated McDonald’s restaurants in the Pittsburgh area. He developed a larger hamburger with two beef patties, a middle bun section, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions and a distinctive sauce.
The Big Mac became more than a menu item: its name, packaging and advertising made it an important part of McDonald’s product branding. A national rollout followed after its regional testing, helping establish the sandwich as a signature McDonald’s product.
The Big Mac is sometimes confused with the Quarter Pounder because both became major McDonald’s menu brands. The Big Mac is defined by its two patties and three-part bun, while the Quarter Pounder is named for the pre-cooking weight of its beef patty.