Back in Time Today
The 1980s were a golden era for fast food experimentation, and McDonald’s led the charge with bold new ideas, unusual pairings, and some truly iconic flops. While Big Macs and Chicken McNuggets have stood the test of time, many menu items from that decade quietly came and went—leaving behind memories (and maybe a little nostalgia).
Here are 17 McDonald’s menu items from the 1980s you probably forgot about.
1. McDLT
“The hot stays hot, and the cool stays cool.” Served in a two-compartment styrofoam container, this burger kept the patty and toppings separate until you assembled it. It was McDonald’s way of ensuring that the burger’s temperature was perfect. The idea was innovative, but the extra packaging was not environmentally friendly. Despite its clever design, it was eventually phased out.
2. Onion Nuggets
Before McNuggets took center stage, McDonald’s experimented with battered and deep-fried chunks of onion—essentially, proto-onion rings. The unique shape and crispy texture were a hit among some, but they couldn’t dethrone the rising star of Chicken McNuggets. These little bites were savory and satisfying, perfect for those who loved onion rings.
3. McPizza
A short-lived attempt to bring pizza to fast food. It took too long to cook and never caught on nationally, but some test locations kept it around into the ’90s. The novelty of ordering pizza at McDonald’s intrigued many, but logistics and preparation time were its downfall. Despite its limited appeal, it has not been forgotten by those who tried it.
4. McSpaghetti
Yes, McDonald’s once tried to serve Italian food. Spaghetti with marinara sauce (sometimes with meatballs) was on the menu in select markets. It was an unusual offering for a burger chain, and while it seemed promising, it was not the Italian feast fans were hoping for. This venture into pasta was short-lived, yet memorable for its uniqueness.
5. McRib (Original Launch)
Introduced in 1981, this saucy, boneless pork sandwich didn’t perform well initially and was pulled—only to return as a limited-time cult favorite. The tangy barbecue sauce and unique shape made it a standout, even if it wasn’t an immediate hit. Now, it’s a beloved seasonal item with a dedicated fan base eagerly awaiting its return.
6. Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich
A hearty, sub-style sandwich with grilled onions and steak sauce, served on a long bun. Think of it as McDonald’s version of a steak sandwich. It offered a richer, more indulgent option for meat lovers. Despite its robust flavor, it couldn’t find a permanent spot on the menu, leaving a legacy for those who sought something beyond burgers.
7. Hula Burger
A meatless option featuring a slice of grilled pineapple with cheese on a bun, meant to appeal to Catholics during Lent. Spoiler: the Filet-O-Fish won that battle. The Hula Burger was an unconventional choice, combining tropical sweetness with savory elements. Its short-lived run remains a curious chapter in McDonald’s history, highlighting creative menu experimentation.
8. Eggs Benedict McMuffin
A twist on the original, this breakfast item featured Canadian bacon, Hollandaise-style sauce, and poached egg vibes—but didn’t stick around long. It was an ambitious take on a classic brunch favorite but didn’t resonate with the fast-food breakfast crowd. Despite its brief appearance, it displayed McDonald’s willingness to explore upscale breakfast options.
9. Garlic French Fries
Only offered in select locations and test markets, these fries were coated in garlic seasoning—well ahead of the gourmet fry trend. They added a bold, flavorful twist to the classic fry. While not widely available, they hinted at the potential for more adventurous side options. Fans of garlic were left wanting more after this tantalizing trial.
10. Cheddar Melt
A burger smothered in creamy cheddar cheese sauce and grilled onions on a rye bun. Rich and savory, but too niche for wide appeal. Its indulgent flavors were beloved by some but didn’t gain enough traction to remain a staple. A brief but memorable foray into more sophisticated burger offerings that left cheese lovers dreaming of its return.
11. McStuffins (Test Item)
Pocket-like sandwiches filled with beef, chicken, or pizza toppings. They never made it out of test markets but were McDonald’s nod to Hot Pockets. Their compact design promised convenience, but they were not enough to sway the masses. This experimental item showed McDonald’s efforts to diversify with portable, filling options in a quickly evolving fast-food landscape.
12. Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel (Early Version)
Though it returned in later decades, this hearty breakfast sandwich first made its debut in the late ‘80s in limited regions. A robust choice for those seeking a fulfilling start to their day, it combined tender steak with fluffy eggs and melty cheese. Its initial run was a taste of things to come, laying the groundwork for future breakfast innovations.
13. Super Size (Early Days)
While the “Supersize” craze is more closely associated with the ’90s, its early roots began in the late ‘80s with extra-large fries and drinks. It catered to those with bigger appetites, offering more value for money. This early version paved the way for a trend that would define fast food portions for years to come, sparking both enjoyment and debate.
14. McLean Deluxe (Prototype Testing)
Before launching in the ‘90s, the McLean Deluxe—a lower-fat burger—was in development and testing in the ‘80s as McDonald’s began eyeing healthier trends. Aimed at health-conscious consumers, it attempted to balance taste with nutritional value. Though its initial concept was promising, it faced challenges in flavor and consumer reception, highlighting the complexity of introducing diet-friendly options.
15. McChicken (Original Recipe)
The original McChicken launched in 1980 but was pulled due to poor sales—later reformulated and brought back with a different recipe. Its crispy exterior and seasoned profile weren’t enough to capture consumer interest initially. However, its eventual return with adjustments marked a successful comeback, solidifying its place on the menu as a beloved classic.
16. Happy Meal Toys from Classic 80s Brands
From Muppet Babies to Fraggle Rock, McDonald’s leaned heavily into pop culture. The food was the same, but the toys were unforgettable. These collectibles captured the hearts of children, turning every Happy Meal into an exciting adventure. The 1980s toys are now cherished memorabilia, symbolizing a time when fast food and pop culture collided in playful harmony.
17. Breakfast Burrito (Initial Tests)
McDonald’s experimented with breakfast burritos late in the ‘80s before making them permanent in the ‘90s, especially in Southwest regions. This portable breakfast option offered a flavorful mix of eggs, sausage, and cheese, appealing to those on the go. Its successful testing phase laid the foundation for a staple breakfast menu item that remains popular today.