The Big Mac, introduced in 1967, was created by McDonald's franchisee Jim Delligatti.
Delligatti developed the sandwich in the Pittsburgh area as a larger, more substantial menu item. It used two beef patties, a middle bun layer, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and the sauce later strongly associated with the product's identity.
McDonald's introduced the Big Mac nationally in 1968 after its regional development. The sandwich became one of the company's signature products and an important part of its global brand recognition.
A frequent mistake is assigning the invention to Ray Kroc because he led the corporation during the product's rise. Kroc helped oversee the expanding system, but Delligatti is credited with creating the sandwich. The Big Mac's 1967 introduction and 1968 national rollout are also distinct milestones.