McDonald Quarter Pounder UK: Calories, Nutrition & Price Guide

Craving a burger that’s stood the test of time? The McDonald quarter pounder is a true icon on the McDonald’s menu—loved for its juicy beef, melty cheese, and classic toppings. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to this legendary burger, this guide breaks down everything you need to know: from calories and nutrition to price, ingredients, and even how it stacks up against other McDonald’s favourites.

What Makes the McDonald Quarter Pounder Special?

The McDonald quarter pounder with cheese is a staple for burger lovers across the UK. It features a thick, 100% beef patty weighing in at a quarter pound before cooking, topped with two slices of cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, chopped onions, ketchup, and mustard—all nestled in a soft sesame seed bun. This combination delivers a satisfying bite, balancing savoury, tangy, and creamy flavours.

McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese Nutrition Breakdown

If you’re watching your intake or just curious, knowing the nutritional facts is key. Here’s a detailed look at the McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese nutrition:

• Calories: The McDonald’s quarter pounder calories come in at around 507–518 kcal per burger, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner.
• Protein: With 31–32 grams of protein, the McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese protein content is substantial, helping you feel full and satisfied.
• Sugar: The McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese total sugar is relatively low at 10–11 grams, mostly from ketchup and the bun.
• Fat: Total fat sits at 26–27 grams, with saturated fat at 12–13 grams.

Ingredient Spotlight: What’s in the McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Patty Only?

Wondering what makes the patty so juicy? The McDonald’s quarter pounder patty only is made from 100% pure beef, simply seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. There are no fillers or additives—just quality beef, grilled to perfection.

Comparing the Classic and Double: Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese Calories

For those with a bigger appetite, the double quarter pounder is a popular choice. But how does it compare nutritionally?

The McDonald’s double quarter pounder with cheese calories are significantly higher, making it a true feast for meat lovers.

McDonald Quarter Pounder Price in the UK

Value matters, and the McDonald quarter pounder price is competitive for the quality and portion size.

• Single Quarter Pounder with Cheese: £4.99–£5.10
• Medium Meal: £6.79
• Large Meal: £7.49

Prices may vary slightly by location, but the burger remains an affordable indulgence for most.

McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese: Nutrition at a Glance

Here’s a quick summary for those tracking their intake:

• McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese calories: ~507–518 kcal
• McDonald’s quarter pounder nutrition: Balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fat
• McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese protein: 31–32g
• McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese total sugar: 10–11g

Is the McDonald Quarter Pounder Discontinued?

Burger fans can relax—the McDonald quarter pounder is very much still available on the McDonald’s menu in the UK. While limited-time variants and regional changes occur, the classic quarter pounder with cheese remains a mainstay.

How Does the Quarter Pounder Compare to Other McDonald’s Burgers?

Let’s see how it stacks up against other classics:

The quarter pounder delivers more protein and a larger, juicier patty compared to the Big Mac or standard cheeseburger.

The McDonald Quarter Pounder Recipe: Can You Make It at Home?

Craving that iconic taste at home? While the exact McDonald quarter pounder recipe is a closely guarded secret, you can get close by using:

• 100% beef mince, shaped into a thick patty (about 113g)
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• Two slices of cheddar cheese
• Sesame seed bun
• Sliced pickles, chopped onions
• Ketchup and mustard

Grill the patty, melt the cheese on top, and assemble with the classic toppings for a homemade take on the legend.

Why the McDonald Quarter Pounder Remains a UK Favourite

The McDonald quarter pounder stands out for its satisfying size, juicy beef, and classic toppings. Its place on the McDonald’s menu is well-earned, offering a delicious balance of flavour and nutrition for those craving a proper burger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is on a Quarter Pounder at McDonald’s?

A Quarter Pounder at McDonald’s features a 100% beef patty weighing a quarter of a pound before cooking, two slices of American cheese, sliced pickles, chopped onions (often rehydrated dried onions), ketchup, and mustard, all served on a sesame seed bun.

What’s the difference between a Quarter Pounder and a cheeseburger at McDonald’s?

The main difference is size and toppings. The Quarter Pounder uses a much larger beef patty (a quarter pound versus a standard smaller patty in the cheeseburger) and comes with two slices of cheese, while the cheeseburger has one. The Quarter Pounder also typically features more onions and pickles, delivering a beefier, more substantial burger experience.

Why is it called a Quarter Pounder?

The name comes from the weight of the beef patty, which is a quarter of a pound (approximately 113 grams) before cooking.

What’s special about a Quarter Pounder?

The Quarter Pounder stands out for its generous beef patty, giving it a superior beef-to-bun ratio compared to other burgers. Its simplicity—focusing on quality beef, minimal toppings, and classic American cheese—lets the flavour of the meat shine.

When was the Quarter Pounder introduced at McDonald’s?

The Quarter Pounder was first introduced in 1973 in the United States and quickly became a staple on the McDonald’s menu worldwide.

What type of beef is used in a Quarter Pounder?

McDonald’s uses 100% pure beef for the Quarter Pounder patty, typically a blend of chuck, round, and sirloin, with no fillers or additives.

How many calories are in a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder?

A standard McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese contains around 430–520 calories, depending on the market and preparation.

Are there any variations of the Quarter Pounder?

Yes, McDonald’s occasionally offers variations such as the Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese, which includes two beef patties and extra cheese, as well as limited-time regional versions.

Is the Quarter Pounder still available on the McDonald’s menu?

Yes, the Quarter Pounder remains a permanent fixture on the McDonald’s menu in most countries, though some regions may offer it as a limited-time item.

Can I make a Quarter Pounder at home?

Absolutely! You can recreate a Quarter Pounder at home using ground beef shaped into a thick patty, American cheese, sesame seed buns, pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard. Many copycat recipes are available to help you match the classic taste.

Conclusion

The McDonald Quarter Pounder is more than just a burger—it’s a mix of tradition, bold flavor, and a few surprises. From its signature beef patty to its not-so-obvious ingredients and global twists, there’s a lot to love (or question). Whether you’re a fan or critic, knowing these truths can help you make a more informed choice the next time you order. Which fact surprised you the most?

Ready to Try the McDonald Quarter Pounder?

Whether you’re after the classic, the double, or a meal deal, the McDonald quarter pounder delivers every time. Next time you’re browsing the McDonald’s menu, give this legendary burger a go—your taste buds will thank you!

Craving more? Check out the full McDonald’s menu for new favourites, or try recreating the McDonald quarter pounder recipe at home for your own twist on a classic.

Share your quarter pounder experience below! What’s your go-to order, and how do you customise your burger? Let’s talk all things McDonald’s in the comments!