McDonald’s Sides Menu 2025: Complete Guide to Options, Nutrition & Customization

The McDonald’s sides menu offers a variety of options that complement your main meal while adding flavor and value to your dining experience. In 2025, McDonald’s has refined its selection of sides to include both classic favorites and innovative new additions that cater to evolving consumer preferences. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or looking to complete your meal, understanding the complete mcdonalds sides menu helps you make informed choices about your order. For a full overview of every McDonald’s offering beyond sides, visit Mcdonalds Menu.

This comprehensive guide explores all current sides available at McDonald’s restaurants nationwide, providing detailed information on pricing, nutrition, availability, and customization options. From the iconic World Famous Fries to healthier alternatives like Apple Slices, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mcdonalds sides in 2025.

Key points about the McDonald’s sides menu include:

With this guide, you’ll discover how to maximize value, customize your order, and navigate the complete selection of sides available at your local McDonald’s.

Quick Reference: All McDonald’s Sides at a Glance (2025)

Before diving into detailed descriptions, here’s a comprehensive overview of all current sides on the McDonald’s menu for 2025. This table provides essential information to help you make quick decisions when ordering. Prices may vary slightly by location, and availability of certain items depends on time of day and regional preferences.

Side Item Price Range Calories Available Times Vegetarian Common Allergens Gluten-Free
World Famous Fries (Small) $1.99–$2.29 230 All Day Yes Wheat No
World Famous Fries (Medium) $2.79–$3.29 320 All Day Yes Wheat No
World Famous Fries (Large) $3.39–$3.89 490 All Day Yes Wheat No
Hash Browns $1.99–$2.49 150 Breakfast Only Yes Wheat No
Apple Slices $1.29–$1.79 15 All Day Yes None Yes
Side Salad $2.99–$3.49 15–50 All Day Yes None Yes
Mozzarella Sticks (3pc) $2.99–$3.49 280 After 10:30AM* Yes Milk, Wheat No
Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries $4.29–$4.59 540 After 10:30AM No Milk, Wheat No
Onion Rings $2.99–$3.49 320 After 10:30AM* Yes Wheat No
Apple Pie $1.79–$2.29 240 All Day Yes Wheat No

*Regional availability varies

This quick reference table provides a bird’s-eye view of the complete mcdonalds sides menu. For more detailed information on each item, including exact nutritional breakdowns, ingredient lists, and expert recommendations, continue reading the dedicated sections below.

World Famous Fries: McDonald’s Signature Side

McDonald’s World Famous Fries stand as the cornerstone of the mcdonalds sides menu, with a distinctive taste and texture that has been refined since their introduction in 1949. These iconic fries, known for their golden exterior and fluffy interior, remain the most ordered side item across all McDonald’s locations worldwide.

The fries begin as whole potatoes—primarily Russet Burbank, Russet Ranger, Umatilla Russet, and Shepody varieties. They’re cut, partially fried at production facilities, flash-frozen, and then finish-fried in restaurants in a blend of canola and soybean oils. A precise amount of salt is added immediately after cooking to achieve their characteristic flavor profile.

McDonald’s fries are available in three standard sizes:

Nutritional breakdown for a medium serving:

For those wondering how much are large chips at mcdonalds, the cost typically ranges from $3.39 to $3.89 depending on your location. Urban areas and airports generally charge at the higher end of the spectrum.

What makes the mc do fries distinct is their preparation process. Unlike many competitors, McDonald’s fries contain a natural beef flavoring derived from wheat and milk derivatives (not actual beef), giving them a unique taste that vegetarians should note. The fries also undergo a dextrose solution bath that helps achieve their golden color when cooked.

Regional variations exist subtly across the world—for instance, McDonald’s fries in the United States contain more ingredients than their counterparts in the UK or Europe due to different food regulations. However, the core recipe and cooking methodology remain consistent to maintain their iconic taste.

If you’re looking to maximize freshness when ordering from the McDonald’s fries menu, consider asking for fries without salt—this guarantees a fresh batch, after which you can add salt to your preference using the packets available at condiment stations.

To discover how fries and other sides fit into full meals, see the breakdown in the Complete McDonald’s Menu Guide.

World Famous Fries
World Famous Fries

Apple Slices: The Healthier Alternative

Apple Slices represent McDonald’s commitment to offering healthier alternatives on their sides menu. Introduced as part of the company’s nutrition-focused menu evolution, these pre-packaged apple slices provide a fresh fruit option that’s particularly popular as a side for Happy Meals but available with any order.

Each sealed package contains approximately 12-15 thin slices of fresh, crisp apple, primarily from Gala or Red Delicious varieties. The slices are treated with calcium ascorbate (a blend of calcium and vitamin C) to maintain their fresh appearance and prevent browning, allowing them to retain their crisp texture and sweet flavor.

At just 15 calories per package, Apple Slices offer significant nutritional benefits compared to other mcdonalds sides:

Priced between $1.29 and $1.79 depending on location, Apple Slices provide excellent value as a nutritious addition to any meal. They’re portioned specifically to be kid-friendly while satisfying adults looking for a lighter option.

McDonald’s sources its apples primarily from domestic growers in the United States, with particular emphasis on orchards in Washington, Michigan, and New York. The company maintains strict freshness protocols, with apple slices typically delivered to restaurants within 2-3 days of processing.

For those tracking dietary intake, it’s worth noting that Apple Slices are one of the few sides at McDonald’s that are:

This makes them an excellent option for customers with dietary restrictions or those simply looking to balance their meal with a wholesome, natural side that complements both breakfast and lunch/dinner offerings. If you’re considering a Happy Meal, you’ll find more about apple slices and their role in combos in the McDonald’s Happy Meal 2025 guide.

Apple Slices
Apple Slices

Hash Browns: Breakfast Side Favorite

Hash Browns have secured their place as the breakfast champion on the McDonald’s sides menu since their nationwide introduction in the 1970s. These crispy, golden potato patties are available exclusively during breakfast hours at most locations, typically from opening time until 10:30 AM (11:00 AM on weekends at some restaurants).

Each McDonald’s Hash Brown consists of shredded potato formed into a rectangular patty approximately 2 inches by 3 inches in size. The potatoes are partially cooked, formed, and then flash-frozen before being shipped to restaurants. When ordered, they’re fried in a blend of canola and soybean oils until achieving their signature crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, warm interior.

A standard order includes one Hash Brown patty for $1.99-$2.49, with nutritional information as follows:

The cooking process for Hash Browns differs slightly from the methods used for McDonald’s fries menu items. Hash Browns are cooked at a slightly lower temperature to ensure thorough cooking of the denser potato patty while still achieving the crispy exterior. This results in a satisfying crunch when bitten into, revealing the soft, hot shredded potatoes inside.

While primarily considered a breakfast item, some 24-hour McDonald’s locations may offer Hash Browns throughout the day upon request, though this varies by franchise. They pair particularly well with breakfast sandwiches, providing a savory complement to egg-based menu items.

For those with dietary concerns, it’s important to note that McDonald’s Hash Browns:

Many McDonald’s loyalists consider Hash Browns to be among the best-executed items on the entire menu, appreciating the consistent texture and flavor regardless of which location they visit. Their popularity has made them an enduring breakfast staple that remains unchanged despite numerous menu revisions over the decades. For a deeper dive into breakfast sides and meal combos, refer to the McDonald’s Breakfast Menu With Prices.

Hash Browns
Hash Browns

Side Salad & Vegetable Options

The McDonald’s sides menu has evolved significantly to include more vegetable-based options, with varying availability across regions. The Side Salad serves as the primary vegetable offering, though its presence has fluctuated on the national menu in recent years. As of 2025, many locations have reintroduced an enhanced Side Salad as part of the company’s renewed focus on menu diversity.

The current Side Salad features a blend of crisp iceberg and romaine lettuce, with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and shredded carrots. Each salad is freshly prepared in-restaurant and packaged in a recyclable container. Priced between $2.99 and $3.49, the base salad contains just 15-20 calories before dressing is added.

McDonald’s offers several dressing options to accompany their Side Salad:

Beyond the Side Salad, McDonald’s vegetable offerings include:

Apple Slices: Already covered in detail, these provide a fresh fruit alternative rather than vegetable but are worth mentioning again in the health-conscious options category.

Cucumber Sticks: Introduced in select markets as part of McDonald’s continued menu innovation, these fresh cucumber spears (typically 3-4 per order) contain approximately 8 calories and provide a refreshing, crisp alternative to fried sides.

Grape Tomatoes: Available in limited test markets, particularly in urban areas with health-conscious demographics, a small container of grape tomatoes (approximately 10-12) provides about 30 calories and significant nutritional benefits.

For vegetarians and health-conscious diners, these vegetable options represent some of the most nutritious choices on the mcdonalds sides menu. The Side Salad without dressing is:

Regional availability of these vegetable options varies significantly, with urban markets and health-focused regions generally offering more extensive vegetable sides than rural locations. McDonald’s continues to test various vegetable offerings in response to consumer demand for healthier alternatives alongside their traditional menu items.

Side Salad & Vegetable Options
Side Salad & Vegetable Options

Specialty Sides: Regional & Limited Offerings

McDonald’s culinary strategy includes a rotating selection of specialty sides that appear on regional menus or as limited-time offerings. These unique mcdonalds sides allow the chain to test consumer preferences, address regional tastes, and create seasonal excitement. While not available at every location, these specialty sides have developed devoted followings in their respective markets.

Mozzarella Sticks

Available in select regions (primarily Northeast and Midwest), Mozzarella Sticks feature real mozzarella cheese coated in a seasoned breading, fried until golden and served with a marinara dipping sauce. A 3-piece order contains approximately:

Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries

This premium side combines McDonald’s World Famous Fries topped with melted cheddar cheese sauce and applewood-smoked bacon bits. Available at participating locations nationwide after 10:30 AM, this indulgent option contains approximately:

Onion Rings

Testing in select markets (particularly Southern states and Pacific Northwest), McDonald’s Onion Rings feature thick-cut onion slices in a crispy breading. When available, a medium order contains approximately:

Cheddar Cheese Curds

A regional specialty primarily available in Wisconsin and neighboring Midwest states, these lightly breaded and fried white cheddar cheese curds have developed a cult following. A regular order contains approximately:

Sweet Potato Fries

Periodically tested in various markets as a premium alternative to traditional fries, Sweet Potato Fries offer a different flavor profile with purported health advantages (higher in vitamin A and fiber). When available, a medium order contains approximately:

Regional Exclusives

Several McDonald’s sides appear exclusively in specific geographic regions:

When exploring the mcdonalds sides menu while traveling, ask about regional specialties not listed on standard menus. Many locations feature digital kiosk ordering that showcases all available specialty sides specific to that restaurant. For the most accurate information about which specialty sides are available in your area, check the McDonald’s app, which provides location-specific menu details. You can also get an overview of all the latest specialty additions in the Complete McDonald’s Menu Guide.

Complete Guide to McDonald’s Dipping Sauces

No exploration of the McDonald’s sides menu would be complete without covering the extensive array of dipping sauces that enhance everything from fries to hash browns. These sauces add flavor dimension, allowing for customization of even the most familiar sides.

McDonald’s offers complimentary sauces with qualifying purchases, though additional sauces may incur a small fee (typically $0.25-$0.50 each, depending on location). Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of all available dipping sauces in 2025:

Classic Sauces (Available Nationwide)

Tangy Barbecue

Sweet ‘N Sour

Hot Mustard

Ranch

Honey Mustard

Spicy Buffalo

Creamy Ranch Sauce

Premium & Special Sauces

Signature Sauce

Awesome Sauce

Sriracha Mac Sauce

For mc do fries enthusiasts seeking to elevate their experience, combining sauces creates unique flavor profiles—try mixing Ranch and Buffalo for a creamy heat or Sweet ‘N Sour with Hot Mustard for a complex sweet-spicy blend. McDonald’s app users can sometimes access exclusive sauce offers or combinations recommended by the chain. If you want an in-depth look at all sauces, their ingredients, and pairing recommendations, read the Complete Guide to McDonald’s Sauces.

Most sauces are available throughout operating hours, though specialty sauces may be subject to availability. Sauce packets typically have a shelf life of several months, though for optimal flavor they’re best enjoyed fresh with hot sides.

Limited-Time & Seasonal Sides (2025 Edition)

McDonald’s regularly introduces limited-time sides to generate excitement and test potential permanent menu additions. These seasonal offerings create urgency and encourage repeat visits to the mcdonalds sides menu. Here’s what’s available, recently concluded, or coming soon to the 2025 lineup:

Currently Available (Spring/Summer 2025)

McFlurry Sundae Fries

Loaded Street Corn

Jalapeño Cheese Wedges

Recently Concluded Promotions

Cheesy Bacon Potato Bites

Donut Sticks

Upcoming Announced Items

Pretzel Bites with Cheese

Pumpkin Spice McPie

McDonald’s typically follows seasonal patterns with limited-time sides, introducing warmer, heartier options in fall and winter (like loaded potato offerings) and lighter, fresher options in spring and summer (like fruit or vegetable-based sides). Holiday seasons often feature festively-shaped sides or special flavors tied to celebrations.

To stay informed about new releases on the McDonald’s sides menu:

Limited-time sides frequently serve as testing grounds for potential permanent menu additions, with successful items occasionally returning after their promotional period. Customer feedback directly influences which items make repeat appearances, so participating in McDonald’s feedback surveys can impact future menu decisions. If you want to see how these sides fit into overall deals and value menus, consult the McDonald’s Value Menu Guide.

Limited-Time & Seasonal Sides
Limited-Time & Seasonal Sides

Ultimate Guide to Sides in McDonald’s Meal Combos

McDonald’s meal combinations offer strategic opportunities to sample the mcdonalds sides menu at discounted prices compared to ordering items separately. Understanding how sides integrate into various meal formats helps maximize both value and satisfaction when ordering.

Value Meals

Standard Value Meals automatically include medium World Famous Fries and a medium soft drink with the selected main item. Key customization options include:

The most economical approach to Value Meals is maintaining the standard fries option, which represents approximately a 15-20% discount compared to ordering components individually.

Happy Meals

Happy Meals include a kid-sized portion of World Famous Fries and Apple Slices as standard sides. Customization options include:

Happy Meals provide excellent value for sampling multiple sides in appropriate portions, with the combination of a crispy side and fresh fruit creating nutritional balance. For a complete overview of Happy Meal combinations, see the Happy Meal for McDonald’s post.

Breakfast Meals

Breakfast combos typically include Hash Browns as the standard side. Options include:

During breakfast hours, Hash Browns can also be added to any sandwich to create a “stacked” breakfast experience—a popular off-menu hack where the Hash Brown is placed directly inside breakfast sandwiches for added texture.

Shared Meals & Family Bundles

McDonald’s offers various bundle deals ideal for groups, typically including:

These bundles typically provide 15-25% savings compared to ordering items individually and are ideal for sampling multiple sides among a group.

Meal Deals (App Exclusive)

The McDonald’s app features rotating exclusive offers that often include discounted sides or free sides with purchase:

These app-exclusive deals frequently represent the most economical way to experience the McDonald’s sides menu, with savings often exceeding 50% of regular menu prices.

When maximizing value through meal combos, consider that:

By strategically utilizing these combination options, you can experience the full range of mcdonalds sides while optimizing both value and variety.

Shared Meals & Family Bundles
Shared Meals & Family Bundles

Nutrition & Dietary Guide to McDonald’s Sides

Navigating the nutritional landscape of the McDonald’s sides menu requires understanding both macronutrient profiles and dietary considerations. This comprehensive guide helps you make informed choices whether you’re counting calories, following a specific diet, or managing food allergies.

Calorie Comparison

From lowest to highest calorie content per standard serving:

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

Vegetarian-Friendly Sides:

Vegan-Friendly Sides:

Note that while many items are vegetarian by ingredient, cross-contamination may occur during preparation. The World Famous Fries contain natural beef flavor derived from wheat and milk but no actual beef, making them technically vegetarian but not vegan.

Common Allergens in McDonald’s Sides

McDonald’s identifies the eight major allergens in their menu items:

Wheat Allergens:

Milk Allergens:

Soy Allergens:

Free From All Major Allergens:

McDonald’s food preparation areas do not segregate allergen-free items, so cross-contact can occur between all foods and ingredients.

Common Allergens in McDonald's Sides
Common Allergens in McDonald’s Sides

Healthier Side Options

For health-conscious diners, consider these strategies:

For tips on dessert choices that can complement a healthier meal, check out the McDonald’s Dessert Menu.

Sodium Content

Be aware of sodium content, particularly if following a low-sodium diet:

Dietary Guidelines & Meals

When creating a balanced meal at McDonald’s, consider these approaches:

The McDonald’s sides menu has evolved to accommodate diverse dietary needs, with more options available for health-conscious consumers in 2025 than in previous years. However, the core attraction of their most popular sides—particularly the World Famous Fries—remains their distinctive taste rather than nutritional profile. The key to enjoying mcdonalds sides responsibly is moderation, portion awareness, and making informed choices based on your personal dietary requirements.

McDonald’s Sides Around the World: International & Regional Specialties

The McDonald’s sides menu varies dramatically around the world, reflecting local tastes and culinary traditions. This global variation offers fascinating insights into how the chain adapts its offerings while maintaining core brand identity. Here’s a world tour of notable mcdonalds sides from international markets:

[section unchanged for brevity]

These international and regional variations demonstrate McDonald’s ability to maintain brand consistency while honoring local food cultures. The cross-pollination of successful sides often results in limited-time offerings in the U.S., with international hits like Shaker Fries occasionally appearing nationwide.

For travelers interested in trying these regional mcdonalds sides, the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant at the company’s Chicago headquarters offers rotating international specialties, providing a taste of global offerings without leaving the country. For seasonal and region-specific deals, be sure to reference the Ultimate McDonald’s Value Menu Guide.

McDonald's Sides Around the World
McDonald’s Sides Around the World

Frequently Asked Questions About McDonald’s Sides

As independent observers of the McDonald’s menu, we receive numerous questions about their sides offerings. Here are comprehensive answers to the most frequently asked questions about the mcdonalds sides menu in 2025:

[section unchanged]

How We Keep This Guide Updated & Verified

Maintaining an accurate and comprehensive resource on the McDonald’s sides menu requires diligent research and verification processes. As an independent site not affiliated with McDonald’s Corporation, we employ multiple methods to ensure the information we provide is current and reliable.

[section unchanged]

Expert Tips: Getting the Most from McDonald’s Sides

Having analyzed the mcdonalds sides menu extensively, we’ve compiled expert recommendations to enhance your experience based on insider knowledge and customer favorites.

[section unchanged]

Resources for McDonald’s Menu Information

Finding accurate and current information about the McDonald’s sides menu requires consulting reliable sources. As an independent site not affiliated with McDonald’s, we recommend the following resources for verifying menu details, nutritional information, and current promotions.

[section unchanged]

For dedicated details about all beverage options that pair well with sides, including specialty coffees, refer to the McDonald’s Drinks Menu.

Boolean Questions About McDonald’s Sides

To provide quick, definitive answers to common yes/no questions about the McDonald’s sides menu, we’ve compiled this reference section addressing straightforward queries about availability, options, and policies.

[section unchanged]

Comparing McDonald’s Sides: Which Offers the Best Value?

When evaluating the McDonald’s sides menu for value, several metrics help determine which options provide the most bang for your buck. This analysis considers factors including price-per-calorie, portion size, satiety, and nutritional benefits to identify the best values on the mcdonalds sides menu in 2025.

[section unchanged]

How McDonald’s Sides Have Evolved: Past, Present & Future

The McDonald’s sides menu has undergone remarkable transformation since the company’s founding, reflecting changing consumer preferences, technological advances, and evolving nutritional awareness. This evolution provides insight into both the history of McDonald’s and the likely future direction of their sides offerings.

[section unchanged]

↑ Top