Fast-food chains are kicking off the year with a wave of new flavors and the limited-time return of familiar favorites. This week’s snack and menu roundup highlights sweet-heat flavors and comfort-driven offerings as chains refresh their menus to draw customers back in.
New and Returning Fast Food Releases of This Week
Fast-food menus are getting a refresh with new items alongside returning fan favorites. With some of the items already available to people, others are slated to be introduced soon, as reported by Snackolator.
McDonald’s Hot Honey Menu
McDonald’s is leaning into the growing popularity of sweet-and-spicy flavors with the launch of new hot honey menu items. The additions build on familiar menu staples, finished with a drizzle of heat-forward honey that adds contrast without overpowering the flavors.
Hot Honey sauce and Hot Honey McCrispy will be launched nationwide on January 27, 2026. Additional menu expansion plans from McDonald’s can be found here.
KFC Nachos
KFC is promoting its nachos, which are actually crispy potato wedges served with a dip. The item reflects the brand’s push into more shareable, snackable offerings. It remains unclear whether the item is a limited-time offering or a permanent addition.
Asiago Bagel Stacks are Back at Panera Bread
Panera Bread has also revived its Asiago Bagel Stacks, which are sandwiches for breakfast and lunch built on sliced Asiago bagels. The limited-time return underscores Panera’s focus on bakery-forward sandwiches with bold, cheese-forward flavors.
Panera is currently offering five Bagel Stack options, available since January 13, 2026. The Chicken Roma and Spicy Steak Asiago Bagel Stack, among the 5 variants, have returned permanently, offered for $7.99.
Steak Stroganoff by Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company has reintroduced its fan-favorite Steak Stroganoff, featuring steak, mushrooms, and pasta in a creamy sauce. The comfort dish joins the brand’s rotating seasonal menu lineup.
“The return of Steak Stroganoff is just the beginning of a big year for Noodles,” said Drew Madsen, CEO of Noodles & Company, in the announcement release.
New Cravioli at White Castle
White Castle has also announced a new menu item, Cravioli, which will be released in April 2026. The pasta-inspired snack expands the menu beyond White Castle’s signature sliders. This time, the brand gave its fans a chance to name the new item.
Created in the form of a bite-sized item, the launch reflects White Castle’s continued experimentation with unconventional, snackable menu items.
Giant Quesadilla and Jumbo Shrimp at Zaxbys
Zaxbys is beginning the year with the comeback of its Giant Quesadilla as well as Jumbo Shrimp. The limited-time offerings feature larger portions and bring seafood into the brand’s traditionally chicken-focused menu.
The nostalgic favorites are being served at participating locations since January 19, 2026. Customers can choose from multiple quesadilla and shrimp options.
Jersey Mike’s Has Brought Hot Italian Sub
Jersey Mike’s has brought back its Hot Italian Sub, featuring a warm blend of meats, cheeses, and toppings. The limited-time sandwich targets customers expecting hearty and hot subs in the extended hot menu line.
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The snack releases of this week in the fast-food industry continue to emphasize that larger chains are updating their menus to keep customers engaged at the beginning of the year. The lineup is expected to drive increased foot traffic as customers return to sample familiar favorites and try new flavors.
