Introduction
Craving McDonald’s but watching your calorie intake? You don’t have to skip fast food entirely—McDonald’s offers several fast food meals under 500 calories that are both satisfying and relatively healthy. Whether you’re counting calories, trying to lose weight, or just making smarter food choices, this guide will help you enjoy McDonald’s without guilt.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The best McDonald’s meals under 500 calories
- Healthiest McDonald’s meal options
- How to customize your order for fewer calories
- FAQs about low-calorie fast food
Best McDonald’s Fast Food Meals Under 500 Calories
1. Egg McMuffin + Black Coffee (300 Calories)
A classic breakfast choice, the Egg McMuffin contains just 300 calories (without cheese: 250 calories). Pair it with black coffee (0 calories) for a protein-packed, low-calorie meal.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 12g
2. Hamburger + Side Salad (400 Calories)
A simple hamburger (250 calories) with a side salad (15 calories) and light balsamic vinaigrette (40 calories) makes a balanced meal under 400 calories.
Nutrition:
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 10g
3. 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets + Apple Slices (410 Calories)
If you’re craving something crispy, the 6-piece Chicken McNuggets (250 calories) with apple slices (15 calories) and a mustard dip (10 calories) keeps it under 500 calories.
Nutrition:
- Calories: ~410
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 12g
4. Filet-O-Fish (Without Tartar Sauce) + Diet Drink (380 Calories)
The Filet-O-Fish (390 calories with tartar sauce, 290 without) is a lighter option. Skip the sauce and pair it with a diet drink for a ~380-calorie meal.
Nutrition:
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 10g
5. McChicken (Without Mayo) + Side Salad (450 Calories)
A McChicken (400 calories with mayo, 300 without) with a side salad and light dressing keeps this meal under 500 calories.
Nutrition:
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 12g
What Is the Healthiest McDonald’s Meal?
If you’re looking for the healthiest McDonald’s meal, focus on high-protein, lower-calorie options like:
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich (without mayo) – 380 calories
- Egg White Delight McMuffin – 250 calories
- Fruit & Maple Oatmeal (without brown sugar) – 260 calories
These choices provide good protein and fiber while keeping calories in check.
How to Customize McDonald’s Meals for Fewer Calories
Want to make your McDonald’s meal even lighter? Try these swaps:
✅ Skip the cheese (saves ~50 calories)
✅ Remove mayo/sauces (saves ~100 calories)
✅ Choose grilled over crispy chicken (saves ~100 calories)
✅ Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or diet drinks (saves 150+ calories)
✅ Add a side salad instead of fries (saves ~200 calories)
People Also Ask: McDonald’s Low-Calorie Meals
1. What meals have 500 calories at McDonald’s?
Several McDonald’s meals stay under 500 calories, including:
- Hamburger + Side Salad (~400 calories)
- 6-Piece McNuggets + Apple Slices (~410 calories)
- Egg McMuffin + Black Coffee (~300 calories)
2. What is the healthiest McDonald’s meal?
The healthiest McDonald’s meal is the Grilled Chicken Sandwich (without mayo) or Egg White Delight McMuffin, offering high protein and lower fat.
3. What is the 500-calorie fast?
The 500-calorie fast (or 5:2 diet) involves eating only 500 calories for two days a week while eating normally the other five days. Choosing McDonald’s fast food meals under 500 calories can help stick to this plan.
Final Thoughts
Eating at McDonald’s doesn’t have to mean consuming excessive calories. With smart choices like Egg McMuffins, grilled chicken sandwiches, and salads, you can enjoy fast food meals under 500 calories without derailing your diet.
Next time you’re at McDonald’s, opt for these lighter meals and customize them to save even more calories. Happy (and healthy) eating!