Carl’s Jr. is serving up its new Cali XL burger, packed with extra meat and bold flavor, for just $5.99. The special offer is available from November 12 to 21, 2025, at participating Carl’s Jr. restaurants and requires proof of a McDonald’s burger purchase to qualify.
Carl’s Jr. Launches Bold Flavors With More Meaty Burgers
Founded in 1941, Carl’s Jr. has been a beloved American burger chain for more than 80 years. Known for its iconic charbroiled burgers, the brand is spread across 1000 locations across the nation.
Carl’s Jr. is launched its new Cali XL Burger alongside the playful ‘Sad Mac Buy Back’ promotion, a move aimed at offering more value to customers amid rising food costs, according to PRNewswire. The offer is only available from November 12 through November 21.
“People want a burger that’s actually worth it. Our new Cali XL has more meat, more flavor, and more value,” said Paz Romero, vice president of brand at Carl’s Jr.
New Offerings: “Sad Mac Buy Back” and Cali XL
Customers can redeem a free Cali XL burger by submitting a McDonald’s burger receipt. Customers just need to upload a photo of a McDonald’s burger receipt dated between January 1 and November 11, 2025, to the website. Eligible customers will receive the free burger in their My Rewards account starting November 22.
With the “Sad Mac Buy Back,” Carl’s Jr. is challenging McDonald’s and creating a big statement: “More meat. More flavor. More value.”
Romero also added, “The ‘Sad Mac Buy Back’ is our way of letting guests try it for themselves by swapping disappointment for something better—no questions asked.”
The Cali XL burger features two 3.5-ounce charbroiled beef patties, which is 7 ounces total before cooking, double American cheese, grilled onions, classic sauce, lettuce, and tomato on a seeded bun. The burger is priced at $5.99.
The Cali XL combo, which adds natural-cut fries and a Coca-Cola® for just $2 more, is also available.
View this post on Instagram
The offer is valid from November 12–21, 2025, at participating Carl’s Jr. restaurants.
- Requires proof of McDonald’s burger purchase (dated Jan 1–Nov 11, 2025).
- Offer available to My Rewards members only.
- One redemption per registered user; 599 free burgers available.
- Not valid with other offers or third-party delivery apps.
The deal underscores Carl’s Jr.’s commitment to bigger portions at a great value, appealing to today’s price-conscious customers.

