The Big Mac was McDonald’s 1968 hamburger that became one of its signature branded products.
Franchisee Jim Delligatti created the sandwich in the Pittsburgh area because he wanted a larger hamburger for customers seeking a more substantial meal. It used two beef patties, a middle bun layer, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and a special sauce. McDonald’s introduced it nationally in 1968.
The Big Mac quickly became more than a menu item. Its name, distinctive three-part bun, and advertising made it a powerful piece of McDonald’s product branding. The sandwich’s identity has remained stable even though preparation details and ingredients can vary by market.
The Big Mac is sometimes confused with the Quarter Pounder because both are major McDonald’s hamburgers. The Quarter Pounder is defined by the weight of its beef patty before cooking, while the Big Mac is defined by its layered construction and signature sauce.