
Meal planning is often seen as a way to take charge of one's diet and finances. Many aim to 'eat healthier' and 'cut back on takeout.' But honestly, that’s never my goal when it comes to meal planning (or anything else). My aim is always to do less and enjoy more, which is why I love adding extra (or 'bonus') cheeseburgers from McDonald's to my meal planning routine.
I'm not the only one who enjoys this. Chrissy Teigen also stocks up on McDonald’s cheeseburgers, then heats them in the microwave when the craving hits. Our methods for reheating are surprisingly alike—just toss them in the microwave, wrapper and all—though she does 35 seconds, and I go for 45. The result is a burger that's almost indistinguishable from a fresh one straight from the drive-through. The cheese melts, the bun softens—it's everything you love about a McDonald’s cheeseburger.
It works for McMuffins as well, though 45 seconds may be too long for the delicate egg patty. Start with 30 seconds, and add 5 more if needed. Like the burger, the McMuffin comes back to life: the cheese melts, the meat sizzles, the egg steams, and the muffin regains its soft, pillowy perfection.
What about the fries and hash browns? They reheat decently in an air fryer, though not as perfectly as the sandwiches do in the microwave. Unfortunately, a McDonald’s fountain soda—specifically, Diet Coke, which is top-notch—doesn’t hold up. (However, if you get the chance, grab a couple of extra McDonald’s straws; their extra-wide straws are what make Mickey D’s sodas feel 'extra fizzy.' More straw space means more bubbles. This is science.)
