Does McDonald’s Still Have Biscuits and Gravy? The Definitive Answer

Yes, McDonald’s still offers Biscuits and Gravy, but with a significant caveat: its availability is highly regional and dependent on individual franchise locations. You won’t find it on the national menu, and the chances of stumbling upon it unexpectedly are slim unless you’re venturing into specific areas known for their Southern culinary influence. Let’s delve into why this beloved breakfast item enjoys such a precarious existence and how you can potentially track it down.

The Elusive Nature of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy

The story of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy isn’t one of complete abandonment. It’s more akin to a culinary hide-and-seek game. The dish never achieved the nationwide ubiquity of, say, the Egg McMuffin or the Hash Browns. Instead, it thrived (and continues to thrive) primarily in the Southeastern United States, where biscuits and gravy are breakfast staples.

Why the Regional Divide?

Several factors contribute to this geographical limitation:

• Regional Preferences: McDonald’s, while a global behemoth, understands the importance of catering to local tastes. Biscuits and gravy are undeniably a Southern comfort food, less familiar and less desired in other parts of the country.
• Operational Efficiency: Introducing an item nationwide requires significant adjustments to supply chains, training protocols, and kitchen infrastructure. If the projected demand doesn’t justify the investment, the item remains regional.
• Menu Simplification: In recent years, McDonald’s has focused on streamlining its menu to improve service speed and reduce complexity. This often leads to the elimination of less popular or regionally-specific items. Biscuits and gravy, unfortunately, fell victim to this simplification in many areas.
• Franchise Autonomy: McDonald’s operates largely on a franchise model. Individual franchisees have a degree of autonomy in deciding which items to offer, based on their local market analysis. If a franchisee believes Biscuits and Gravy will be a hit, they have the power to include it on their menu, regardless of national trends.

Beyond the Southeast: Glimmers of Hope

While the Southeast is the stronghold of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy, occasional pockets of availability exist elsewhere. Don’t be surprised to find it in areas with a strong Southern influence, even if they’re located outside the traditional “South.” These exceptions highlight the influence of local demographics and franchisee decisions.

How to Find McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy Near You

Given its elusive nature, tracking down this breakfast treasure requires some detective work:

• Check the McDonald’s App: This is your first and most reliable resource. The app allows you to view the menu of specific locations near you. If Biscuits and Gravy are offered, they’ll be listed.
• Call Ahead: A direct phone call to your local McDonald’s is a straightforward way to inquire about their menu.
• Ask Locally: If you’re traveling through the South, don’t hesitate to ask locals if they know of any McDonald’s that serve Biscuits and Gravy. Word-of-mouth can be surprisingly effective.
• Social Media Sleuthing: Search social media platforms for mentions of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy in your area. You might uncover hidden gems that haven’t been officially advertised.

The Future of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy

The fate of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy remains uncertain. While a nationwide return seems unlikely in the immediate future, its enduring popularity in the South ensures its continued existence in that region. The dish’s future is likely tied to the evolving strategies of McDonald’s regarding menu optimization and regional customization. If there is enough clamor for the item, the company may re-evaluate its menu offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy

1. What exactly is in McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy?

McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy typically consists of a warm, flaky biscuit smothered in a creamy, savory sausage gravy. The gravy is usually made with milk, flour, sausage crumbles, and seasonings.

2. How much does McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy cost?

The price varies by location, but it’s generally one of the more affordable breakfast options on the menu, typically ranging from $2 to $4.

3. Is McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy healthy?

Biscuits and gravy are not generally considered a healthy option due to their high fat and sodium content. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as a treat.

4. Can I order McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy all day?

No, McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy are only available during breakfast hours, which typically end at 10:30 AM.

5. Does McDonald’s offer a larger portion of Biscuits and Gravy?

Some locations may offer a double portion or an option to add extra gravy, but this varies by franchise.

6. Are there any variations of Biscuits and Gravy offered by McDonald’s?

The classic Biscuits and Gravy is the standard offering. Rarely, a franchisee might experiment with different sausage types or gravy recipes, but this is uncommon.

7. Why did McDonald’s remove Biscuits and Gravy from some menus?

The removal was primarily due to menu simplification efforts and the item’s lack of nationwide popularity.

8. Can I customize my order of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy?

Customization options are limited, but you might be able to request extra gravy or have the biscuit served separately.

9. Are there any alternatives to Biscuits and Gravy on the McDonald’s breakfast menu?

Yes, McDonald’s offers a wide range of breakfast items, including Egg McMuffins, Sausage Biscuits, Hotcakes, and Hash Browns.

10. Is McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy gluten-free?

No, McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy are not gluten-free.

11. How can I request McDonald’s to bring back Biscuits and Gravy to my local restaurant?

You can contact McDonald’s through their website, social media channels, or customer service line to express your interest. Franchisees also value customer feedback, so you can share with the store management.

12. Can I make my own version of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy at home?

Absolutely! There are many recipes online that aim to replicate the taste and texture of McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy. A simple search for “McDonald’s Biscuits and Gravy recipe” will yield numerous options.