The Breakfast Item at McDonald’s Baristas Wish You’d Skip
If you’re swinging by McDonald’s for breakfast, there’s one item that employees secretly wish you’d avoid: the Big Breakfast with Hotcakes. While it might seem like a satisfying morning feast, this platter-style meal is a behind-the-scenes headache for McDonald’s staff.

Why? The Big Breakfast with Hotcakes is one of the most complex and time-consuming items to prepare during the fast-paced breakfast rush. It includes scrambled eggs, a sausage patty, hash browns, hotcakes, and a biscuit—all served on a single tray. Each component requires separate preparation steps, slowing down the kitchen’s efficiency and disrupting the flow of orders.
Why It’s a Hassle for Employees
- Labor-Intensive Assembly: Unlike simpler breakfast sandwiches, the Big Breakfast involves multiple items that need to be cooked, plated, and packaged together. This adds extra steps to an already busy kitchen.
- Packaging Problems: Employees often complain about the flimsy plastic lids used for this meal. These lids frequently pop off during assembly or transport, creating additional frustration for workers.
- Slows Down Service: The intricate nature of this meal can delay other orders, especially during peak breakfast hours when speed is critical to keeping customers happy.
What Should You Order Instead?
If you’re looking for something easier on both you and the staff, consider sticking to McDonald’s classic breakfast sandwiches like the Egg McMuffin or Sausage Biscuit. These items are quicker to prepare and still deliver that signature McDonald’s breakfast taste without the hassle.
While the Big Breakfast with Hotcakes remains a popular choice for those craving variety, it’s clear why baristas and kitchen staff might wish you’d opt for something simpler. So next time you’re in line at McDonald’s, keep this in mind—you might just make someone’s morning a little easier!