Steak ‘n Shake, the iconic American chain known for its delicious steakburgers and hand-dipped milkshakes, has been satisfying cravings for generations. But for those with a truly colossal appetite, the question arises: what’s the biggest burger they offer? The answer, while seemingly straightforward, involves understanding the nuances of their menu and customization options. Let’s dive into the world of Steak ‘n Shake burgers and discover the behemoth that awaits.
The Crown Jewel: The 7×7 Steakburger
The undisputed champion of Steak ‘n Shake’s burger lineup is the legendary 7×7 Steakburger. This burger is a towering stack of seven steakburger patties, each layered with melted American cheese. It’s a true test of one’s burger-eating prowess, a monument to carnivorous indulgence.
What Makes the 7×7 So Massive?
The sheer number of patties is the most obvious factor. Each steakburger patty, while not overly thick, contributes significantly to the overall height and weight of the burger. Seven patties stacked high create a substantial challenge. Adding to the heft is the seven slices of American cheese, melting together to form a gooey, cheesy bond between the patties.
Ordering the 7×7: A Rite of Passage
Ordering the 7×7 isn’t as simple as just asking for it. It’s an off-menu item, a secret known only to seasoned Steak ‘n Shake veterans and those who have done their research. You need to specifically request a burger with seven patties and seven slices of cheese. Be prepared for the cashier’s initial surprise and perhaps a knowing smile.
Understanding the Steak ‘n Shake Burger Basics
Before we delve deeper, it’s important to understand the core components of a Steak ‘n Shake burger. Knowing the building blocks helps appreciate the magnitude of the 7×7.
The Steakburger Patty: A Classic Recipe
The foundation of every Steak ‘n Shake burger is, of course, the steakburger patty. Made from a blend of quality beef, these patties are known for their thinness and crispy edges, achieved through a unique cooking process on a flattop grill. The patties aren’t heavily seasoned, allowing the natural beef flavor to shine through.
The Standard Toppings: Simplicity at its Finest
Steak ‘n Shake keeps its standard burger toppings relatively simple. Typically, you’ll find options like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and a variety of condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. These classic additions complement the savory beef and add a refreshing crunch.
The Buns: A Soft Embrace
The buns used at Steak ‘n Shake are soft and slightly sweet, providing a pleasant contrast to the savory patties and toppings. They’re sturdy enough to hold the burger together but not so dense that they detract from the overall experience.
Beyond the 7×7: Exploring Other Large Burger Options
While the 7×7 reigns supreme, it’s not the only substantial burger option at Steak ‘n Shake. There are other ways to customize your burger to create a larger, more satisfying meal.
The Quad Steakburger: A Manageable Challenge
For those who find the 7×7 a bit too daunting, the Quad Steakburger offers a more manageable, yet still impressive, alternative. This burger features four steakburger patties and four slices of cheese, providing a hearty and flavorful experience. It’s a good stepping stone for those aspiring to conquer the 7×7 someday.
Customization is Key: Building Your Own Behemoth
The beauty of Steak ‘n Shake lies in its customization options. You can technically order a burger with any number of patties, as long as you’re willing to pay the extra charge for each additional patty and slice of cheese. This allows you to create your own unique burger creation, tailored to your specific appetite and preferences.
The Economics of Excess: Cost Considerations
Ordering a massive burger like the 7×7 or a custom creation with numerous patties comes with a financial consideration. Each additional patty and slice of cheese adds to the overall cost of the burger.
Calculating the Price of Your Patty Stack
The price of a 7×7 or custom-built burger will vary depending on location and any promotional offers that may be available. However, you can generally estimate the cost by starting with the price of a standard double or triple steakburger and then adding the individual cost of each additional patty and slice of cheese.
Is it Worth the Price? The Value Proposition
Whether the cost of a massive burger is “worth it” is a subjective question. For some, it’s a novelty experience, a challenge to conquer, or a way to celebrate a special occasion. For others, it might be a more economical option to order a smaller burger and add a side or dessert. Ultimately, the value proposition depends on your individual priorities and budget.
The Health Factor: Navigating the Nutritional Landscape
It’s important to acknowledge the nutritional implications of consuming a large burger like the 7×7. With multiple patties and slices of cheese, it’s undoubtedly a calorie-dense and high-fat meal.
Understanding the Calorie Count
The exact calorie count of a 7×7 will vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used. However, it’s safe to assume that it contains a significant number of calories, likely well over 1500. This is a substantial portion of the recommended daily calorie intake for most adults.
Fat and Sodium Content: A Word of Caution
In addition to calories, the 7×7 also contains a high amount of fat, particularly saturated fat, and sodium. These are nutrients that should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Regular consumption of high-fat and high-sodium foods can contribute to various health problems.
Making Informed Choices: Moderation is Key
While indulging in a massive burger occasionally might be acceptable for some, it’s important to make informed choices about your diet and prioritize moderation. Consider sharing the burger with a friend, opting for a smaller size, or balancing your meal with healthier side options like a salad or fruit.
The Experience: More Than Just a Meal
Eating a massive burger like the 7×7 is more than just consuming food; it’s an experience. It’s a challenge, a spectacle, and a potential conversation starter.
The “Wow” Factor: Turning Heads and Dropping Jaws
Ordering a 7×7 is guaranteed to turn heads. The sheer size of the burger is impressive, and it’s likely to elicit reactions of surprise, amusement, and perhaps even envy from fellow diners. It’s a visual statement that says, “I’m here to conquer this burger!”
The Challenge Accepted: A Test of Appetite and Skill
Eating a 7×7 is a genuine challenge. It requires a strategy, a strong grip, and a considerable appetite. It’s not a burger you can casually munch on; it demands your full attention and commitment. Successfully finishing a 7×7 is a badge of honor, a testament to your burger-eating prowess.
The Shared Experience: Creating Memories with Friends
Sharing a massive burger like the 7×7 with friends can be a fun and memorable experience. It’s a way to bond over a shared challenge and create a lasting memory. Plus, it’s a practical way to enjoy the burger without consuming an excessive amount of food yourself.
Final Thoughts: The 7×7 – A Steak ‘n Shake Legend
The 7×7 Steakburger is undoubtedly the biggest burger offering at Steak ‘n Shake, a testament to the chain’s willingness to cater to even the most audacious appetites. While it may not be on the official menu, its legendary status is well-deserved. Whether you’re a seasoned burger enthusiast seeking a challenge or simply curious about the extremes of the Steak ‘n Shake experience, the 7×7 is a burger that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Just remember to approach it with a healthy dose of respect, a hearty appetite, and perhaps a few friends to share the experience.
What burger at Steak ‘n Shake is considered their largest?
Steak ‘n Shake’s largest burger is generally considered to be the “7×7 Steakburger”. This behemoth features seven steakburger patties stacked high, each topped with melted American cheese. It’s a significant departure from their more standard offerings, designed for those with a serious appetite and a desire for a truly indulgent burger experience.
While Steak ‘n Shake might introduce limited-time offers with larger promotional burgers, the 7×7 Steakburger has maintained its status as the consistent king of size on their standard menu. Its sheer volume of beef and cheese makes it a memorable and challenging meal for even the most seasoned burger enthusiast.
Is the 7×7 Steakburger always available at Steak ‘n Shake locations?
The availability of the 7×7 Steakburger can sometimes vary depending on the specific Steak ‘n Shake location. While it’s a relatively well-known item, some restaurants may choose not to actively promote it or may require a special request to prepare it. It’s always best to check with your local Steak ‘n Shake ahead of time to confirm its availability.
Given that it involves assembling seven patties, some locations might require a slightly longer preparation time compared to their standard burgers. Calling ahead can ensure that the kitchen is prepared for your order and minimize any potential waiting time when you arrive.
How much does the 7×7 Steakburger typically cost?
The price of the 7×7 Steakburger can vary slightly depending on the location and any regional price differences. However, you can generally expect it to be significantly more expensive than their single or double steakburgers due to the sheer quantity of beef and cheese involved. It’s advisable to check the local menu for the most accurate pricing.
Keep in mind that the quoted price is usually just for the burger itself. Adding sides like fries and a milkshake, which are popular accompaniments at Steak ‘n Shake, will further increase the overall cost of the meal. Consider any available combos that might offer a better value for your complete meal.
What are the nutritional facts for the 7×7 Steakburger?
Unfortunately, Steak ‘n Shake doesn’t always provide readily available nutritional information specifically for the 7×7 Steakburger. Given its size and ingredients, it’s safe to assume that it is extremely high in calories, fat, and sodium. The best approach is to calculate an approximation based on the nutritional information available for a single steakburger patty with cheese, multiplied by seven.
For those concerned about specific nutritional values, it is crucial to be aware that the 7×7 Steakburger is likely a considerable deviation from a balanced diet. Due to the high calorie and fat content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation or as a treat, rather than a regular meal.
Can I customize the 7×7 Steakburger with different toppings?
While customization options may vary by location, most Steak ‘n Shake restaurants are typically accommodating to requests for customizing their burgers. You should be able to add toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, or different sauces to your 7×7 Steakburger.
Keep in mind that adding extra toppings may increase the overall cost and might also affect the stability of the towering burger. Consider asking for extra napkins, as navigating such a loaded burger can be a messy but enjoyable experience.
Is the 7×7 Steakburger meant to be eaten alone?
The 7×7 Steakburger is undoubtedly a substantial meal designed for individuals with a large appetite or for sharing among several people. Its sheer size makes it a challenge for one person to consume in a single sitting, unless they are particularly hungry or looking for a food challenge.
Many people opt to share the 7×7 Steakburger with a friend or family member, especially when ordering sides and milkshakes. This allows everyone to enjoy a taste of the colossal burger without necessarily committing to eating the entire thing on their own.
Does Steak ‘n Shake offer any challenges or rewards for eating the 7×7 Steakburger?
Steak ‘n Shake does not officially promote a formal food challenge or reward program specifically for eating the 7×7 Steakburger. While some individuals have created their own unofficial challenges, the restaurant itself doesn’t typically offer any prizes or recognition for completing the burger solo.
It’s worth checking with your local Steak ‘n Shake to see if they have any informal challenges or promotions running, but generally, conquering the 7×7 Steakburger is its own reward—a testament to one’s burger-eating prowess. The focus is more on the enjoyment of the burger rather than structured competition.