The Best Keto Food Items at McDonald's
Adopting a ketogenic (keto) diet can be challenging, especially when it comes to dining out. However, McDonald’s, a global fast food giant, offers several options that can fit into a keto lifestyle. The keto diet emphasizes high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate foods, which helps the body enter a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. Here’s a guide to the best keto-friendly food items you can enjoy at McDonald’s.
1. Egg McMuffin (Without the Muffin)
- The Egg McMuffin is a classic breakfast item that can be easily adapted for a keto diet. Simply order it without the English muffin. You’ll get a serving of eggs, Canadian bacon, and cheese, providing a good balance of protein and fat without the carbs. For an extra boost, add an additional egg or cheese.
2. Sausage, Egg & Cheese McMuffin (Without the Muffin)
- Similar to the Egg McMuffin, the Sausage, Egg & Cheese McMuffin can be made keto-friendly by removing the muffin. This version includes a savory sausage patty, egg, and cheese, making it a filling and satisfying low-carb option.
3. Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit (Without the Biscuit)
- The Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit can be customized to fit a keto diet by discarding the biscuit. This leaves you with bacon, eggs, and cheese, which are perfect for a high-fat, low-carb meal.
4. Double Cheeseburger (No Bun)
- A Double Cheeseburger without the bun offers two beef patties, two slices of cheese, pickles, onions, mustard, and ketchup. To make it even more keto-friendly, request no ketchup, as it contains added sugars. This meal is high in fat and protein, making it a great choice for keto dieters.
5. Grilled Chicken Sandwich (No Bun)
- The Grilled Chicken Sandwich can be adapted for a keto diet by removing the bun. You’ll be left with a seasoned grilled chicken breast, which is a lean source of protein. Add some leafy greens or a side salad to increase your fiber intake while keeping carbs low.
6. Big Mac (No Bun, No Sauce)
- The iconic Big Mac can be keto-friendly by removing the bun and special sauce. What remains are two beef patties, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions. For added fat, you can request extra cheese or even bacon.
7. Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich (No Bun)
- The Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich, minus the bun, offers a flavorful grilled chicken breast with no added carbs. Pair it with a side salad (without croutons) and use a keto-friendly dressing like ranch or Caesar.
8. Side Salad with Grilled Chicken
- McDonald’s Side Salad with Grilled Chicken is a light, low-carb option. Ensure you choose a keto-friendly dressing and avoid any high-carb toppings like croutons. This salad provides fresh vegetables and protein from the grilled chicken.
9. Bacon Ranch Grilled Chicken Salad
- The Bacon Ranch Grilled Chicken Salad is another excellent choice for those following a keto diet. It includes grilled chicken, bacon, and a variety of leafy greens. Opt for the ranch dressing, which is higher in fat and lower in carbs compared to other dressings.
10. Custom Breakfast Bowls
- Many McDonald’s locations allow you to customize your order. You can create a breakfast bowl by combining scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese. This mix ensures you stay within your macro goals of high fat and low carbs.
Conclusion
Eating keto at McDonald’s is entirely possible with a bit of customization and knowledge of the menu. Focus on high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carb items such as eggs, cheese, meats, and leafy greens. By avoiding buns, biscuits, and sugary sauces, you can enjoy a variety of meals that align with your ketogenic lifestyle. Whether you’re in a rush or simply craving some fast food, these keto-friendly options at McDonald’s make it easier to stick to your diet without sacrificing convenience or taste.