There’s always a quiet excitement when McDonald’s UK launches a limited-edition item, and in 2025, that thrill belongs to the Philly Cheese Stack. As someone who regularly explores seasonal fast food launches, I couldn’t resist giving this double beef, double cheese creation a try.
Walking into McDonald’s, the sight of the new Philly Cheese Stack on the menu board immediately caught my eye.
A double-patty burger with grilled onions, crispy onions, cheese sauce, cheddar slices and pickles, it promised a fusion of textures and flavours inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak. But does it really deliver?
Let’s break it down.
What Exactly Is the Philly Cheese Stack?
The Philly Cheese Stack isn’t your average McDonald’s burger. Designed to mimic the indulgence of a Philly cheesesteak, it comes loaded with:
- Two beef patties, 100% pure beef, seasoned with salt and pepper after cooking
- Cheddar cheese slice, processed but rich in flavour
- Cheddar cheese sauce, creamy and tangy, adding that melty feel
- Grilled onions, soft, smoky and slightly sweet
- Crispy onions, for crunch and contrast
- Pickle slices, adding a zesty sharpness
- Glazed sesame watersplit bun, soft, slightly sweet, with that signature sesame crunch
At 635 kcal per burger, it’s definitely on the heavier side, but that’s often expected with a double-stacked special like this.
Availability – Can You Get It Everywhere in the UK?
Unfortunately, not quite. The Philly Cheese Stack is part of McDonald’s limited-time and select-location menus in the UK. While it’s featured prominently in urban locations and high-traffic areas, not every McDonald’s restaurant is carrying it.
Here’s how to check:
- Use the McDonald’s UK app to search for local availability
- Check if it’s available through McDelivery®, which may include offers and Rewards Points
- Ask in-store staff directly
Due to regional testing or stock limitations, some rural locations may not stock it.
Taste Test – Does It Live Up to the Hype?
On the first bite, it’s clear that McDonald’s wasn’t playing it safe with this one. The cheese sauce is velvety and delivers a satisfying richness.
Combined with the cheddar slice, it creates that gooey cheesesteak essence. The grilled onions bring a mild smokiness, while the crispy onions add a delightful crunch.
The two beef patties are juicy, and the pickles cut through the heaviness with their sharp tang. Altogether, it’s a flavour bomb that certainly stands out among the usual McDonald’s offerings.
Is it an exact replica of an authentic Philly cheesesteak? Not quite. But for a fast food version, especially within a UK context, it does a surprisingly good job of honouring the original’s boldness.
How It Compares to Other McDonald’s Burgers in 2025?
Here’s how the Philly Cheese Stack stacks up against other popular burgers:
| Feature | Philly Cheese Stack | Big Mac | Double Quarter Pounder |
| Beef Patties | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Cheese Components | Slice + Sauce | 1 Slice | 2 Slices |
| Onion Types | Grilled + Crispy | Raw | Raw |
| Calorie Count | 635 kcal | 508 kcal | 739 kcal |
| Limited Edition | Yes | No | No |
| Overall Flavour Profile | Rich, cheesy, smoky | Classic, tangy | Meaty, bold |
Is It Suitable for Your Diet? A Look at Allergens & Ingredients
McDonald’s is transparent with its allergen advice, and it’s worth noting that this burger contains:
- Milk (cheddar cheese slices and sauce)
- Wheat (bun, crispy onions)
- Sesame seeds
- May contain barley and rye
- Cooked in kitchens that handle nuts, peanuts, and other allergens
This means that if you have any serious allergies, it’s wise to double-check before ordering or consult staff.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Portion)
- Energy: 2645kJ / 635kcal
- Fat: 37g (Saturated: 18g)
- Protein: 39g
- Carbs: 36g (Sugars: 6.5g)
- Fibre: 2.1g
- Salt: 2.9g
It’s indulgent and not exactly lean, but again, that’s the appeal.
Conclusion
If you enjoy cheesy, rich, layered burgers with a balance of textures and an American-inspired flavour, the Philly Cheese Stack is absolutely worth a try, while it lasts.
It’s not for everyone: calorie-conscious eaters or those with dietary restrictions may find it too indulgent. But for the occasional treat, especially for those curious about new McDonald’s menu items, it’s a strong contender for one of their best seasonal releases in recent years.
FAQs
Does the Philly Cheese Stack taste like an authentic Philly cheesesteak?
It draws inspiration from the classic Philly cheesesteak, especially with its cheese sauce and onions, but it’s still a McDonald’s twist, not an exact replica.
How can I order the Philly Cheese Stack through McDelivery?
Use the McDonald’s UK app or website to check if it’s available in your area. If it is, you can earn Reward Points on your order.
What allergens are in the Philly Cheese Stack?
It contains milk, wheat, sesame and may contain traces of barley and rye. It’s prepared in kitchens where allergens are handled.
Is this burger suitable for vegetarians?
No, it contains two beef patties and is not suitable for vegetarians.
How many calories are in McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack?
It contains 635 kcal per burger, which is 32% of the daily recommended intake for an average adult.
Will the Philly Cheese Stack become a permanent menu item?
As of now, it’s a limited-time item. There’s no announcement about it becoming a regular menu fixture.
Is the Philly Cheese Stack available across all McDonald’s in the UK?
Not all locations stock it. It’s a limited-edition item and availability varies by region.
