Calories in a Big Mac: Full Nutrition Breakdown

The McDonald's Big Mac is one of the most iconic fast food burgers in the world, featuring two beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. A standard Big Mac contains approximately 563 calories, with a significant portion coming from fat and carbohydrates. It also delivers 26 grams of protein, making it a calorie-dense but moderately protein-rich menu item.

Calories by serving size:

The Big Mac's calorie count is largely driven by its special sauce, two beef patties, and American cheese. Its sodium content of over 1000 mg represents nearly half of the recommended daily limit, which is an important consideration for those monitoring their salt intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the full calorie breakdown of a Big Mac?

A Big Mac contains 563 calories, with 33 grams of total fat (11 g saturated), 44 grams of carbohydrates, and 26 grams of protein. It also provides about 9 grams of sugar and 3 grams of dietary fiber. Fat accounts for roughly 53% of its total calories, making it a high-fat meal option.

How does a Big Mac compare to a Quarter Pounder?

A Big Mac has 563 calories, while a Quarter Pounder with Cheese has about 520 calories — so the Big Mac is actually slightly higher in calories despite its patties being thinner. The Quarter Pounder, however, has more protein at around 30 grams compared to the Big Mac's 26 grams, due to its single thicker beef patty.

Is a Big Mac unhealthy?

A Big Mac is a calorie-dense food that is high in saturated fat and sodium relative to its nutritional value. At 563 calories and 1010 mg of sodium, it represents a significant portion of most people's daily limits in a single item. Eaten occasionally as part of a balanced diet it can fit into your calorie goals, but it should not be considered a nutrient-dense meal choice.

How much sodium is in a Big Mac?

A Big Mac contains approximately 1010 mg of sodium, which is about 44% of the American Heart Association's recommended daily limit of 2300 mg. The sodium comes primarily from the beef patties, cheese, pickles, and special sauce. Pairing it with salted fries and a soda significantly increases the total sodium for the meal.

How many calories does a Big Mac have without the sauce?

Removing the Big Mac special sauce saves roughly 100 calories, bringing the total down to about 463 calories. The sauce alone contributes around 100 calories and 9 grams of fat per serving. Skipping the sauce is one of the simplest modifications you can make to reduce the calorie and fat content of a Big Mac.