Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar using an electric mixer at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.

Add the large room temperature egg and pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix for about 1 minute or until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until there are no visible streaks of flour.

Using a spatula, gently fold in the patriotic M&M's, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Using a medium cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.

Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.