How to Reheat a Big Mac

“Revitalizing the Classic: The Perfect Guide to Reheating Your Big Mac”

Have you ever ended up with one or more uneaten Big Mac’s after ordering too many at McDonald’s, but you do not want to waste money and throw them away?

How Long Can You Keep a Leftover Big Mac In the Fridge

It can be difficult to reheat a burger without it becoming dry or the condiments, especially lettuce, losing their flavor and wilting.

I’ve tested four main ways and covered another 4 to determine which preserves the freshness of the burger, while still keeping the bun soft and condiments edible.

What Is The Top Way To Reheat a Leftover Big Mac Burger

You can quickly reheat a Big Mac in just a few minutes and the common way is to use your own favorite one step method like utilizing a frying pan. Begin by discarding the lettuce. It is usually wilted anyway and is likely to be bitter. Take the burger patties off the buns. Then put the patties in a medium-hot skillet first then toast the bun, but honestly, the best way is to use the 

Reheating a Big Mac in a Microwave
Reheating a Big Mac in a Microwave

BIG MAC MERGE METHOD

Reheating a hamburger can be a tricky task, as the bun and patty often have different reheating needs.

One method to ensure that both the bun and patty are heated to perfection is to use a combination of methods, by separating the bun from the patty.

Use the Skillet or pan method to reheat the pattie to perfection and an oven to toast the buns back to life – lastly bring the cheese and patty to the bun in the oven and finish by melting the cheese and then assembling the burger and voila – you have a day old big mac looking like it just came out of macdonalds.

Here are the steps to reheating a Big Mac Perfectly using the combo method.

Deconstructing a burger and reheating it separately can be a great way to ensure that each component is heated to perfection, resulting in a burger that is even better than when it first came off the grill. Here is a step-by-step method on how to separate the bun, lettuce, and patty in a burger so you can reheat it and make it even more delicious:

  1. Begin by carefully separating both the top and bottom bun in halves creating two separate pieces.
  2. Next, remove the lettuce, sauce (scrape it off – but keep it) and pickles etc from the burger and set it aside.
  3. Carefully remove the patty from the burger, keeping it in one piece if possible.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the patty on a baking sheet and put it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
  5. While the patty is reheating, place the bun in a skillet over medium heat and toast it for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Alternatively, you can use a toaster to reheat the bun.
  6. Once the patty is heated and the bun is toasted, assemble the burger by placing the patty on the bottom half of the bun and adding the lettuce and any other desired toppings. Put the top of the bun.
  7. Serve the burger hot and enjoy!

It’s important to note that reheating time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the patty, and the type of oven or skillet you are using.

Keep an eye on your food and adjust the reheating time accordingly. With this method, you can enjoy a delicious, perfectly reheated burger every time.

After the patty is heated and the bun is toasted, assemble the hamburger by placing the patty on the bun and adding any desired toppings.

This method allows for the patty to be heated through without drying out, and for the bun to be toasted without getting soggy.

Another alternative is to use a microwave to reheat the patty and a toaster to reheat the bun.

Place the patty on a microwave plate (safe) and cover it with a paper towel.

Heat it in the microwave on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until heated through.

While the patty is reheating, place the bun in a toaster and toast it to your liking. Once the patty and bun are reheated, assemble the hamburger and enjoy!

It’s important to note that reheating time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the patty, and the type of oven or microwave you are using. Keep an eye on your food and adjust the reheating time accordingly. With the combination method, you can enjoy a delicious, perfectly reheated hamburger every time.

How To Reheat a Big Mac in A Skillet
How To Reheat a Big Mac in A Skillet

Top 8 ways to reheat a Big Mac Burger in 2024

Some of these ways are a little more creative than others and not likely to be popular, but for completeness, I include them. Moreover, some of these methods are more suitable for reheating a single Big Mac, while others are better suited for reheating multiple burgers.

To reheat a Big Mac burger, you can use one of the following methods:

1. Oven:

This method is the best way to reheat multiple Big Macs at once.

Reheating multiple Big Macs at once can be challenging, but with the right technique, you can get them hot and delicious in no time.  

Oven Method To Reheat A Big Mac

The oven method to reheat a Big Mac is perfect for when you want to reheat a whole sandwich in one go. Preheat the oven to 350 Fahrenheit before starting up.

Next, place your Big Mac on an oven-safe tray and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help trap the steam from your sandwich and help preserve some of its moisture and flavor.

Pop the tray in the preheated oven and set a timer for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, carefully lift up the foil and glimpse at your Big Mac. If it looks all golden-brown, take it out of the oven! 

Otherwise, put it back in and check back after a few more minutes until you get that picture-perfect masterpiece that looks good enough to eat! 

Positives for reheating a Big Mac in the Oven: Using the oven to reheat a Big Mac allows for even heat distribution and can help to maintain the structural integrity of the burger. Ovens are also a great option if you are looking to reheat multiple burgers at once.

Negatives: Using an oven can take longer than some other methods of reheating, and it also requires preheating the oven, which can add extra time. Additionally, if you’re not careful, the bun can become too crispy in the oven.

2. Microwave:

This method to reheat a big mac is the fastest, easiest, and most common way people use. However, it is not the best option for reheating a Big Mac as, in my opinion, it makes it soggy.

Microwave Method To Reheat A Big Mac

To reheat a Big Mac in the microwave, start by removing the lettuce and any other condiments from the burger.

Place the leftover burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep some of the moisture in while heating up your sandwich.

Next, set your microwave to medium heat and cook for 45 seconds. After 1 minute, check to see if your Big Mac is hot enough. If not, continue cooking in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.

Positives for reheating a Big Mac in the Microwave: The microwave method is very quick and easy and requires minimal effort on your part. It’s also great for when you’re short on time or just want to quickly reheat one burger at a time.

Negatives: The downside of using the microwave to reheat a Big Mac is that it can cause the bun to become soggy or dry out too quickly, resulting in an unappetizing meal. Additionally, microwaves can cause uneven heating, which can lead to cold spots in your burger.

3. Stovetop:

Reheating a burger using a skillet on a stovetop is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious burger without the need for an oven. This method allows you to control the heat and reheat the burger to your desired level of doneness. It’s also a great way to add a crispy crust to the patty and warm the burger buns without making them soggy.

Stovetop Method To Reheat A Big Mac

  1. Begin by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Carefully slice the bun away from the patty and condiments
  3. Carefully remove the patty from the burger, keeping it in one piece if possible.
  4. Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet.
  5. Place the patty in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
  6. While the patty is reheating, place the bun cut side down in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of toasting.
  7. Once the patty is heated and the bun is toasted, assemble the burger by placing the patty on the bottom half of the bun and adding any desired toppings. Put the top of the bun.
  8. Serve the burger hot and enjoy!

It’s important to note that reheating time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the patty, and the type of skillet you are using.

Keep an eye on your food and adjust the reheating time accordingly. Also, make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the patty to avoid steaming it instead of searing. With this method, you can enjoy a delicious, perfectly reheated burger every time.

Positives for reheating a Big Mac on the Stovetop: Positives: Using a stovetop skillet is one of the best methods for reheating a Big Mac if you want to achieve a crispy crust on the patty. A skillet can also be used to reheat multiple burgers at once.

Negatives: The stovetop method can be time-consuming and requires constant attention to prevent the burger from burning. Also, if you don’t have a well-seasoned skillet, the patty can stick to the pan.

Using an Air Fryer To Reheat A Big MAc
Using an Air Fryer To Reheat A Big Mac

4. Air Fryer:

Reheating a burger in an air fryer is a great way to enjoy a delicious, juicy burger without the hassle of grilling or pan-frying. However, there are a few things to consider when reheating a burger in an air fryer to ensure that it comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful.

First, it’s important to note that the air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, which can dry out the burger if it’s not properly prepped. To prevent this, you can brush the burger with a small amount of oil or butter before reheating.

This will help to keep the burger moist and flavorful. Additionally, you can also place a small amount of water in the bottom of the air fryer to create steam, which can also help to keep the burger moist.

Another important thing to consider is the temperature and cooking time. The ideal temperature for reheating a burger in an air fryer is around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

See how many burgers you need per person for a party.

Air Fryer Method To Reheat A Big Mac Burger

Here’s a detailed method for reheating a burger in an air fryer:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. While the air fryer is preheating, remove the lettuce sauce and condiments, along with taking out the patty. Then brush the burger with a small amount of oil or butter. This will help to keep the burger moist and flavorful.
    1. Note: for one burger you can reheat the whole burger it will take a little longer and the lettuce will be bitter. (I prefer to use fresh lettuce)
  3. Place the burger in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each burger for the hot air to circulate.
  4. To create steam, add a small amount of water to the bottom of the air fryer. This can help to keep the burger moist.
  5. Place the air fryer basket in the air fryer and cook the burger for about 5 minutes.
  6. After about 5 minutes, check the internal temperature of the burger using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
  7. Once the burger reaches the desired internal temperature, remove the burger from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  8. You can serve it with your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, ketchup, mayo and etc.

Note: Cooking time may vary based on the size and thickness of the burger, as well as the desired level of doneness. Adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Positives for reheating a Big Mac with an Air Fryer:

An air fryer is a great option for reheating a Big Mac if you want to achieve a crispy crust on the patty. The hot air circulation in the air fryer also helps to reheat the burger quickly and evenly.

Negatives: The Air Fryer may not be able to reheat multiple burgers at once, also it requires preheating which can add extra time.

4. Toaster Oven:

Reheating a burger in a toaster oven is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious, juicy burger without the hassle of grilling or pan-frying. However, there are a few things to consider when reheating a burger in a toaster oven to ensure that it comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful.

A general rule of thumb is to cook the burger for about 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, you can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the burger has been reheated to the right temperature.

Another important thing to consider is the type of toaster oven you are using. Conventional toaster ovens will work well for reheating a burger, but convection toaster ovens are even better. Convection toaster ovens circulate hot air around the food, which can help to cook the burger more evenly and quickly. Additionally, you can also use the broil function on a toaster oven for a crispy finish. Keep in mind that, broiling will cook the burger quickly on one side and you should keep an eye on it, to prevent over-cooking.

Toaster Oven Method To Reheat A Big Mac Burger

Here’s a detailed method for reheating a Big Mac burger in a toaster oven:

  1. Preheat the toaster oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. While the toaster oven is preheating, prepare the Big Mac burger by taking it apart and cooking the patty first. Later you can assemble the big mac again with special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions.
  3. Place the burger on a baking sheet or a toaster oven safe tray.
  4. Place the tray in the toaster oven, making sure to place the tray in the middle rack.
  5. Cook the burger for about 8 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Then put in the buns for a little extra toasting.
  7. Once the burger reaches the desired internal temperature, remove the tray from the toaster oven and let the burger rest for a few minutes before serving.
  8. You can serve it with your choice of sides like fries or onion rings.

Toaster Oven: Positives:

Toaster ovens are a great option if you want to reheat a Big Mac and get a crispy crust on the patty. Toaster ovens are also a good option if you don’t want to preheat a full-size oven.

Negatives: Toaster ovens can have limited space and may not be able to reheat multiple burgers at once, also the bun can become too crispy.

5. Grill:

Reheating a burger using a grill is a great way to enjoy a delicious, juicy burger with a crispy exterior. However, there are a few things to consider when reheating a burger using a grill to ensure that it comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful.

First, it’s important to note that the grill works by direct heat, which can dry out the burger patty if it’s not properly prepped. To prevent this, you can brush the burger with a small amount of oil or butter before reheating. This will help to keep the burger moist and flavorful. Additionally, you can also use a basting brush to apply a marinade or sauce to the burger to add flavor and moisture.

Another important thing to consider is the temperature and cooking time. The ideal temperature for reheating a burger using a grill is around medium-high heat, and the cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the burger. A general rule of thumb is to cook the burger for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, you can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the burger has been reheated to the right temperature.

Also, it’s important to keep the grill clean, it will help to prevent any flare-ups which can burn the burger. And also, you should use a separate plate or a tray to place the burger on the grill, to avoid cross-contamination.

Grill Method To Reheat A Big Mac Burger

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. While the grill is preheating, separate the big mac into its constituents. Brush the burger with a small amount of oil or butter. This will help to keep the burger moist and flavorful.
  3. You can also use a basting brush to apply a marinade or sauce to the burger to add flavor and moisture.
  4. Place the burger on the grill and cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  5. After about 3-4 minutes, check the internal temperature of the burger using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
  6. Once the burger reaches the desired internal temperature, remove the burger from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  7. While it is resting toast the buns on the grill
  8. Reassemble the Big Mac – You can serve it with your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, ketchup, mayo and etc.

Grill: Positives:

Grilling is a great method if you want to achieve a crispy crust on the patty and a smoky flavor. It’s also a great way to reheat a Big Mac if you’re already grilling other food.

Negatives: Grilling requires preheating the grill and it can be time-consuming to reheat a single burger. Also, it requires constant attention to prevent the burger from burning.

Other Methods for specialty methods and covered for completeness of reheating a big Mac

6.Sous-vide:

If you have a sous-vide set up, place the Big Mac in a vacuum-sealed bag and heat in the sous-vide water bath at 150-160 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes. Then quickly sear the patty on a pan with some butter or oil for a crispy crust.

Sous-vide: Positives: Sous-vide is a great method if you want to achieve a perfectly cooked patty with a consistent temperature all the way through. It also allows you to achieve a juicy patty.

Negatives: Sous-vide requires a specialized equipment and it can be time-consuming to set up. Also, you need to sear the patty on a pan after sous-vide to get a crispy crust.

7 Steamer:

If you have a steamer insert for your pot or pan, place the Big Mac in a steamer basket and steam it on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes.

Steamer: Positives:

Steaming is a great method if you want to reheat a Big Mac without losing its moisture. Steaming also allows you to reheat multiple burgers at once.

Negatives: Steaming may not be able to achieve a crispy crust on the patty, also it’s a slower method than others.

What’s the minimum safe temperature to reheat a Big Mac?

To ensure that a Big Mac is safe to eat, it should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I reheat a Big Mac more than once?

It is not recommended to reheat a Big Mac more than once. The more times you reheat food, the more the quality of the food will deteriorate, and the greater the risk of food poisoning.

Should I reheat a Big Mac in the original packaging?

It is not recommended to reheat food in the original packaging as it may not be safe for reheating. The packaging may not be able to withstand high temperatures and may contain chemicals that are not safe to ingest.

Can I reheat a Big Mac in the microwave and then finish it on the grill?

It is possible to reheat a Big Mac in the microwave and then finish it on the grill. However, it is important to ensure that the Big Mac has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before grilling it.

Can I add additional toppings to a reheated Big Mac?

Yes, you can add additional toppings to a reheated Big Mac if desired. However, it is important to ensure that the Big Mac has been reheated to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before adding toppings.