What’s the Real Difference Between McDonald’s Double Cheeseburger and McDouble?

McDonald's Double Cheeseburger and McDouble may seem similar, but the key difference lies in the extra slice of cheese. The Double Cheeseburger features two slices of American cheese, while the McDouble includes just one, offering distinct taste experiences for cheese lovers and purists alike.

McDonald’s McDouble vs. Double Cheeseburger: One Slice of Cheese Makes All the Difference

If you're not a regular at McDonald's or stick with a familiar order like the Big Mac, you might find yourself lost among the similarly named burgers on the menu. For example, the chicken burger lineup alone includes the McCrispy, Deluxe McCrispy, Spicy McCrispy, and McChicken — all with subtle variations. To make things more interesting, limited-time offerings like the Chicken Big Mac pop up seasonally. But if you're looking for a beef burger and wondering about the difference between a McDonald's Double Cheeseburger and a McDouble, the answer is simple: one slice of extra cheese.

According to Tasting Table, the McDouble comes with one slice of cheese layered between two 100% beef patties, accompanied by chopped onions, pickles, ketchup, and mustard on a plain bun. On the other hand, the Double Cheeseburger includes all the same ingredients but adds an extra slice of American cheese over the top patty before the pickles and sauces are added. The heat from the beef melts the cheese, creating a gooey texture that enhances the overall flavor, while the patties, lightly seasoned and cooked on a flat-top grill, offer a simple yet satisfying taste.

Calorically, there’s little difference between the two — just 16 calories — so if you enjoy a cheesier burger, the Double Cheeseburger is a great choice. However, if you prefer the straightforward meatiness of the patties, the McDouble might be your best bet.

Double Cheeseburger vs. McDouble: Price, Protein, and Hacks for Budget-Savvy McDonald's Diners

Opting for a Double Cheeseburger, typically priced around $4.19, is an easy way to increase the protein content of your meal without adding too many carbs from an extra bun. You get two patties and a slice of cheese, both high-protein ingredients known for boosting satiety. However, it's important to note that the Double Cheeseburger is unavailable as part of a meal deal. In contrast, the McDouble, priced around $3.65 depending on location, can be ordered a la carte or as part of a $5 meal deal that includes small fries, a drink, and 4 Chicken McNuggets.

For budget-conscious diners, McDonald's offers plenty of money-saving hacks. From ordering Chicken McNuggets in bulk to asking for extra free toppings like pickles and onions, there are various ways to stretch your dollar. One popular hack is ordering a McDouble "dressed like a Mac," often called a "Poor Man's Big Mac." This trick gets you a cheaper burger with two patties, one slice of cheese, and the same sauce and shredded lettuce as a Big Mac, but without the extra middle bun. With the money you save, you can invest in a silicone reusable burger holder to keep in the car for convenient drive-thru trips with the kids.