When it comes to satisfying a major appetite, fast-food fans know exactly where to turn: triple burgers. These towering creations, piled high with three juicy patties and all the fixings, have become cult favorites at several major chains. According to a January 1, 2026 report by Eat This Not That, five fast-food giants in the United States are leading the charge with triple-patty burgers that have won over hungry customers across the nation.
But the world of fast food isn’t just about burgers. Breakfast, another cornerstone of the American fast-food experience, can be a hit-or-miss affair depending on where—and what—you order. In a recent review published the same day by Tasting Table, Burger King’s Bacon Egg and Cheese Biscuit was ranked as the worst breakfast item on the chain’s menu, sparking lively debate among fans and critics alike.
Let’s dig into the details of these towering burgers and controversial breakfasts, exploring what makes some fast-food items soar—and others sink.
Whataburger: Texas-Sized Triple Meat
For those who crave a burger that’s as big as the Lone Star State, Whataburger’s Triple Meat is a go-to choice. Priced at $8.29, this burger is more than just a meal—it’s a commitment to freshness. The company proudly declares, “We don’t just tell our customers it’s fresh, we prove it every day, 24/7. Your Whataburger doesn’t hit the grill until you order it.” According to Eat This Not That, the chain uses only “100% fresh, never-frozen American beef” and vegetables “chopped in-house daily.” The result? A burger that’s as fresh as it is filling, making it a fan favorite for those who want a hearty, made-to-order meal.
Carl’s Jr.: The Triple Western Bacon Cheeseburger
If you’re in the mood for something smoky, cheesy, and unapologetically indulgent, Carl’s Jr. has your number. The Triple Western Bacon Cheeseburger takes excess to new heights with three charbroiled all-beef patties, two strips of bacon, melted American cheese, crispy onion rings, and tangy BBQ sauce—all served on a seeded bun. With a whopping 1,380 calories, this burger isn’t for the faint of heart. But for many fans, that’s exactly the point. Eat This Not That notes that this burger packs more calories than some people aim to eat in a whole day, but its bold flavors and serious size keep customers coming back for more.
In-N-Out: The Legendary 3x3
In-N-Out has built its reputation on simplicity, quality, and freshness. The chain’s biggest burger, the 3x3, starts at $8.50 and features three beef patties and three slices of cheese. The company’s commitment to quality is clear: “only fresh – never frozen – high quality” beef, specifically “front-quarter beef chucks – no additives, fillers, or preservatives.” Each patty is “cooked fresh to order,” and fans insist you can taste the difference. “Easily best value,” one Redditor enthused, according to Eat This Not That. For those who want a burger that’s both affordable and packed with flavor, the 3x3 is a must-try.
Burger King: The Triple Whopper—A Love-Hate Relationship
Burger King’s Triple Whopper with Bacon and Cheese is a legend in its own right. Flame-grilled and stacked high, it features three beef patties, bacon, and cheese, clocking in at 1,350 calories and 270.1 mg of cholesterol. As Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, told Eat This Not That, “Cholesterol is ONLY in animal-based foods.” With its trio of beef patties, plus bacon and cheese, it’s no surprise this burger is loaded up with calories and cholesterol. But fans love it for its bold, meaty flavor and its over-the-top presentation.
However, not everything on Burger King’s menu is a hit. While the Triple Whopper has its loyalists, the Bacon Egg and Cheese Biscuit has been widely panned. In a scathing review by Tasting Table, the biscuit was described as “dry, heavy, and hard instead of light and fluffy.” The bacon was “sparse, lacked meaty flavor, and was unevenly cooked, with some parts floppy and gelatinous and others crunchy.” Even the egg and cheese couldn’t save the sandwich, with the cheese dominating the flavor profile due to lackluster supporting ingredients. The verdict? “No matter how good it sounds, skip this salt bomb that gives the King a bad name.”
Other reviewers and customers echoed these criticisms, calling the biscuit “flat and chewy rather than fluffy, not to mention too salty.” Many agreed there was “too much biscuit and not enough filling,” and the bacon was often “overly chewy, fatty, and salty.” If you’re craving a breakfast sandwich at Burger King, critics recommend skipping the biscuit and opting for the Croissan’wiches instead, which generally receive much better ratings. The Bacon Sausage Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich and the Ham, Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich are both cited as fan favorites, with the latter described as “meaty, filling, and feels just a little fancy.” For those with a sweet tooth, Burger King’s French Toast Sticks are another beloved option, perfect for dipping in syrup alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Steak ‘n Shake: The Affordable Triple Steakburger
Not to be left out, Steak ‘n Shake offers the Triple Steakburger, a budget-friendly option at just $8. This burger features three of the chain’s signature patties and is a favorite among those looking for a good deal. One Redditor gushed, “Steak N’ Shake Garlic Butter Burger is by far the best,” while another added, “Ooo with extra of the garlic sauce…so good!” According to Eat This Not That, Steak ‘n Shake stands out for offering some of the most affordable burgers in the fast-food world, making it a popular choice for those who want a tasty, filling meal without breaking the bank.
Triple Burgers: A Symbol of Fast-Food Indulgence
What is it about triple burgers that has captured the hearts—and stomachs—of so many Americans? Perhaps it’s the sense of abundance, the promise of a meal that won’t leave you hungry, or simply the thrill of tackling a burger that’s bigger than your appetite. Whatever the reason, these five chains have tapped into a craving that shows no signs of slowing down.
Of course, not every fast-food creation is a winner. As Burger King’s much-maligned Bacon Egg and Cheese Biscuit demonstrates, even giants of the industry can stumble. But for every misstep, there’s a triple burger waiting to restore your faith in fast food. Whether you’re in it for the flavor, the value, or the sheer spectacle, there’s a triple burger—and maybe a better breakfast—out there for everyone.
In the ever-evolving landscape of American fast food, one thing remains certain: the quest for the perfect bite continues, one stacked sandwich at a time.
