After testing it in over 1,000 select U.S. locations years ago, McDonald’s is finally selling a new line of bigger $4 Angus burgers in all of its U.S. locations.

Amid the recession, the world’s most popular fast food chain considers it the right time to launch the “bigger, premium” Angus burgers to the national market. There had been some concern on the launch date of the new burgers. In October 2008, McDonald’s top management announced it would defer the national launch of the new product based on report recommendations by a stock analyst at Stifel Nicolaus, and due to the weak economy.

Although the economy has not visibly improved since then, McDonald’s officially declared the launch. According to company spokeswoman Dana Proud, the new Angus burger offering will be the best alternative for great tasting burgers at an affordable price.

The new line of burgers adds to the fast food’s permanent core menu, which includes all-time favorites the Big Mac and Quarter Pounder with Cheese.

Angus burgers, priced at $4 each, are McDonald’s most expensive sandwich but are relatively cheap when compared to fast-casual and sit-down competitors like Chili’s Grill and Bar and Five Guys, which cost at least $8.

A Chicago Tribune food review stated the new features in Angus burgers: crinkle-cut pickles, red onion rings, a thicker slice of tomato and mushrooms that make it tastier than the popular Big Mac; plus new sesame seed rolls that offer sturdy support.

Nutritional information on the three versions of Angus burgers state: Angus Deluxe – 750 cal, 39 g fat, 1,700 mg sodium; Mushroom & Swiss – 770 cal, 40 g fat, 1,170 mg sodium; Bacon & Cheese – 790 cal, 39 g fat, 2,070 mg sodium

On Wednesday’s trading, McDonald’s shares rose 73 cents to $58.22.