Are you a fan of McDonald’s and looking to save big at McDonald’s this year? You’re not alone. With prices rising everywhere, the famous golden arches are bringing back real value with the McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal. Whether you’re a fan of the McDonald’s breakfast menu, collect McDonald’s collector cups, or want to get your hands on those fun Grimace McDonald’s toys, this deal is one of the best ways to stretch your dollar.
Let’s break down exactly what’s in the $5 Meal Deal, when you can grab it, and some clever tricks to make it even cheaper.
What’s in the McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal?
Right now, the $5 Meal Deal includes:
- Your choice of a McDouble or McChicken
- A 4-piece Chicken McNuggets®
- Small fries
- A small soft drink
That’s a lot for just $5, especially compared to other menu prices. Depending on your order, you’ll receive approximately 990 calories in total. If you’re concerned about McDonald’s nutrition, this meal isn’t the lightest option, but it does offer decent value for its size.
Many fans pair it with limited-edition items, such as the McDonald’s spicy nuggets when they’re available, or add a dessert to round it off.
How Long Will the $5 Meal Deal Last?
The $5 Meal Deal was reintroduced as part of McDonald’s broader value push. With more families skipping pricier meals and hunting for deals, this combo makes a huge difference. It was initially planned to run only for the summer, but thanks to its popularity, many restaurants plan to keep it going through the end of 2025.
If you want to score one, check McDonald’s hours near you—most locations serve the lunch menu after McDonald’s breakfast hours end. Wondering what time McDonald’s serves lunch? In most places, that’s 10:30 AM on weekdays and 11:00 AM on weekends. So, set your craving clock right!
Can You Order It During McDonald’s Breakfast?
Nope! Right now, the $5 Meal Deal is part of the lunch and dinner menu, not the McDonald’s breakfast menu. But don’t worry—if you’re a fan of McMuffins and hotcakes, you can still order breakfast classics in the morning. Just remember that McDonald’s breakfast hours usually run from 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM until about 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM, depending on your local McDonald’s operating hours.
Pro Tips: How to Get the Meal Even Cheaper
Want to make that $5 go even further? Here’s how:
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Use the McDonald’s App
Always order through the McDonald’s app if possible. Many locations offer special app-only discounts, like Buy One, Get One for $1 sandwiches or free fries on Fridays.
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Stack with Other Deals
If you’re picking up a McDonald’s Happy Meal for the kids, combine it with your $5 Meal Deal to keep everyone fed for cheap. Some people also hunt for special items like McDonald’s Halloween Boo Buckets or Grimace McDonald’s toys when they come out—fun for collectors!
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Ask About Extras
Some locations hand out McDonald’s collector cups during special promotions, so if you’re lucky, your $5 deal might come with a limited cup too. Always ask the crew if promos are running!
Fun Tie-Ins: Minecraft McDonald’s Meal
McDonald’s is always cooking up something new. In late 2024, they tested the Minecraft McDonald’s Meal—an exclusive Happy Meal box featuring Minecraft McDonald’s toys. It was such a hit with kids that fans are hoping it returns for the holiday. Keep an eye out: sometimes special toys come with your McDonald’s Happy Meal, especially during Halloween when McDonald’s Halloween Buckets are back in stores.
Don’t Miss the Adult Happy Meal
Another recent trend: the McDonald’s Adult Happy Meal. Packed with nostalgic toys like the Grimace figurine or the Hamburglar, it made waves in 2024. Some locations combine it with other deals—if you see one when you grab your $5 Meal Deal, you might want to snag it too.
Should You Apply for a Job at McDonald’s?
If you visit your local store frequently, it’s time to earn instead of spending! The McDonald’s application is quick and easy, and many employees score free or discounted meals during their shifts. Some crew members even get early access to limited-edition items, such as McDonald’s Crocs toys and exclusive Happy Meal cup designs. Not bad perks if you’re a mega fan!
When to Visit?
Timing is everything. Here’s a cheat sheet:
- McDonald’s breakfast hours: 5–10:30 AM weekdays, usually 5–11:00 AM weekends.
- McDonald’s lunch hours: start at 10:30 AM (weekdays) or 11:00 AM (weekends) until close.
- Most stores operate until midnight or later—many are open 24 hours.
Always double-check McDonald’s hours online or in the app to avoid missing out.
Why the $5 Meal Deal Matters
In today’s economy, people want simple ways to save money. The $5 Meal Deal is McDonald’s answer to rising food costs and growing fast-food competition. Other chains, like Wendy’s or Burger King, have rolled out $5–$7 value boxes too, but McDonald’s has the strongest name recognition and the biggest menu variety—plus fun seasonal extras like McDonald’s Halloween Boo Buckets and collector toys.
Final Thoughts: Grab It While You Can
The McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal is one of the best fast-food bargains you’ll find this year. It’s simple, filling, and easy to customise. You can’t grab it during breakfast hours, but pair it with a McDonald’s Happy Meal for the kids, check for McDonald’s collector cups, or keep an eye out for exclusive items like Grimace McDonald’s or Minecraft McDonald’s meal toys.
Use the app, combine your deals, and make sure you know your local McDonald’s lunch hours so you don’t miss out.
Money-Saving Tips
- Order with the app for the best deals
- Combine with Happy Meal promos for extra fun.
- Look for seasonal items like Halloween Buckets
- Grab collector cups or toys if they’re available.e
- Apply for a job if you love perks!
Ready to Eat?
So, next time you’re hungry and only have five bucks, skip the drive-thru guesswork. Just check McDonald’s hours, roll up after McDonald’s breakfast time, and order the $5 Meal Deal. Your wallet and test bud will say you thanks.
