Ordering Catering

McDonald's Catering - Convenient Solution for Corporate Lunches and Events

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Written by CaterCow Staff • March 17, 2025

The History of McDonald's and Catering

McDonald's, one of the most recognizable fast-food brands in the world, has long been associated with quick service and convenience. While the chain is primarily known for its burgers, fries, and breakfast menu, it has also ventured into catering services over the years.

McDonald’s catering options have evolved based on regional demand and franchisee initiatives. Unlike traditional catering businesses, McDonald's does not have a centralized catering division but allows individual franchises to offer catering services based on their capabilities. Many McDonald’s locations, particularly in high-demand areas, have introduced breakfast catering, bulk orders, and packaged meal solutions for large groups and corporate clients.

McDonald's Relationship with Franchisees in Catering

Because McDonald's operates on a franchise model, catering availability depends largely on the specific franchisee and their ability to fulfill large orders. Some franchisees actively market catering as part of their business strategy, while others focus solely on in-store and drive-thru sales.

Franchise owners who choose to offer catering typically do so through partnerships with third-party delivery services like UberEats and DoorDash or by handling direct bulk orders. McDonald's corporate headquarters provides guidance but does not mandate catering across all locations, meaning service levels and menu options vary.

Some franchisees have even customized their catering menu to include bundle deals, beverage services, and packaging designed for office meetings, conferences, and events. Breakfast catering has been a particularly popular offering, with items like Egg McMuffins, hash browns, and McCafé coffee bundles available for bulk purchase.

When McDonald's is a Good Option for Corporate Lunch Catering

While McDonald's might not be the first brand that comes to mind for formal catering, it can be an excellent option in several scenarios:

  1. Affordable and Efficient: McDonald's catering provides a cost-effective way to serve a large group without sacrificing speed. Businesses looking to feed employees or clients on a budget will find McDonald's to be a convenient choice.
  2. Breakfast and Morning Meetings: Many corporate events take place early in the day, and McDonald's breakfast catering—offering Egg McMuffins, McGriddles, coffee totes, and hash browns—has been a strong fit for morning meetings and employee appreciation events.
  3. Casual Team Lunches: If your company is looking for a quick, easy lunch solution, McDonald's offers a variety of sandwiches, nuggets, and fries in bulk quantities that are familiar and widely enjoyed.
  4. Large-Scale Events: For organizations hosting training sessions, company retreats, or casual networking events, McDonald's can provide bulk meals that require minimal setup and cleanup.
  5. Limited Catering Alternatives: In areas where traditional catering options are either too expensive or unavailable, McDonald's provides a fast, reliable alternative with well-known menu items.

How to Order McDonald's Catering

McDonald's catering orders can typically be placed through the following methods:

  • McDelivery via UberEats or DoorDash: Some McDonald's locations partner with delivery services to provide scheduled catering options. Prices may vary based on delivery fees and location.
  • Direct Franchise Orders: Some participating locations allow direct orders for large catering requests. Calling ahead is recommended to confirm menu availability and pickup times.
  • In-Restaurant Pickup: Orders can be placed in advance for pickup at a specific time, ensuring that food is fresh and ready when needed.

McDonald's Catering Menu Highlights

Based on available catering offerings, common menu items include:

  • Breakfast Bundles: Egg McMuffins, Sausage Biscuits, McGriddles, Hash Browns, Coffee Totes, and Orange Juice.
  • Lunch Options: Cheeseburgers, Chicken McNuggets, Filet-O-Fish, and French Fries in bulk packaging.
  • Snack and Side Items: Apple slices, yogurt parfaits, baked apple pies, and cookies.

Does CaterCow offer McDonald's Catering?

Presently, CaterCow does not offer McDonald's catering instead it partners with other awesome burger choices. While McDonald's may not replace traditional catering companies for upscale events, it serves as a practical, efficient solution for corporate meetings, training sessions, and casual office lunches. With its well-known menu, affordable pricing, and quick turnaround time, McDonald's catering remains a reliable choice for businesses looking for a no-fuss, fast food catering option. As the franchise model allows for flexibility, businesses should check with their local McDonald's to see what catering services are available in their area.