A juicy burger patty topped with melted cheese is a match made in heaven. National Cheeseburger Day, on September 18, celebrates the cheeseburger, one of America's most iconic foods. From classic American cheese on a soft bun to gourmet versions with blue cheese, pepper jack or Swiss, there's a cheeseburger for every taste. It's a perfect day to fire up the grill one more time before fall.
History of National Cheeseburger Day
The hamburger became popular in the United States in the early 1900s, but who first added cheese is debated. One popular story credits Lionel Sternberger, a teenager working at his father's sandwich shop, The Rite Spot, in Pasadena, California, in the mid-1920s. He reportedly dropped a slice of American cheese on a burger.
Other claims include Kaelin's Restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky, which says it served a cheeseburger in 1934. In 1935, Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In in Denver applied for a trademark on the name 'cheeseburger'.
After World War II, cheeseburgers became a fast-food staple. Regional variations include Minneapolis' 'Juicy Lucy', with cheese stuffed inside the patty, and New Mexico's green chile cheeseburger. Who created National Cheeseburger Day is not documented.
Why National Cheeseburger Day Matters
The cheeseburger is a symbol of American food culture and backyard cookouts.
Its competing origin stories show how food history is often shaped by local pride and legend.
Cheeseburgers are also endlessly customizable, letting cooks experiment with cheeses, toppings and buns. Regional variations are a fun way to explore American food traditions.
The cheeseburger is also a great example of how a small change can create a classic. Adding a single slice of cheese transformed the hamburger into one of the most-ordered foods in America. Today, cooks continue to experiment with cheeses, sauces and buns, keeping this simple idea fresh.
How to Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day
- Grill cheeseburgers: add cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Try a Juicy Lucy: stuff cheese inside the patty.
- Experiment with cheese: use pepper jack, blue cheese or Swiss.
- Try a regional style: make a green chile cheeseburger.
- Visit a local burger joint: support a small business.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a cheeseburger cookout is a classic team event; include vegetarian options. In classrooms, students can research and debate the cheeseburger's origin, or map regional burger styles. At home, families can host a burger night with different cheeses and toppings, letting everyone build their own. Cook ground beef to 160°F, and let children help with toppings and assembly.
Fun Facts About National Cheeseburger Day
- Lionel Sternberger is often credited with the cheeseburger in the 1920s.
- Louis Ballast sought a trademark on 'cheeseburger' in 1935.
- The Juicy Lucy has cheese stuffed inside the patty.
National Cheeseburger Day FAQs
When is National Cheeseburger Day?
National Cheeseburger Day is September 18.
Who invented the cheeseburger?
Lionel Sternberger is often credited, but other claims exist.
What is a Juicy Lucy?
A burger with cheese stuffed inside the patty.
What cheese melts best on burgers?
American, cheddar and Swiss melt well.