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National Cheeseburger Day

Food · September 18

A food day for the cheeseburger: a grilled beef patty with melted cheese on a bun, and all the small choices that make one your own.

National Cheeseburger Day falls on Saturday, September 18, 2027. That is 326 days away.

A cheeseburger starts simple. A ground beef patty goes on a hot grill or griddle, a slice of cheese goes on top near the end, and the whole thing lands on a soft bun. That is the frame. Everything after it is opinion.

American cheese is the classic pick because it melts smoothly and evenly, draping over the edges instead of sliding off. Cheddar brings more sharpness, Swiss adds a mild nutty note, and pepper jack adds heat. Then come the toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise. Some people want a tall stack. Others want a thin, crisp patty and nothing but cheese and onions.

People mark the day the obvious way, by eating one. That might mean a favorite diner, a backyard grill, or a cast iron pan on the stove. Smash burgers, where a ball of beef is pressed flat on a very hot surface, have a loyal following for their browned, lacy edges. Thicker patties stay juicier in the middle and reward a little patience.

One tip from home cooks: add the cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan briefly. The trapped steam melts the slice fast, so the patty does not overcook while you wait. A lightly toasted bun also holds up better against the juices, which is good news for anyone who likes extra pickles.

Ways to celebrate

• Try a cheese you have never put on a burger before.
• Make smash burgers at home in a hot cast iron pan.
• Visit a local diner and order their house cheeseburger.
• Toast your buns lightly before assembling.
• Share your ideal topping lineup with friends and compare.

Dates

All national days on September 18

Also on September 18

• U.S. Air Force Birthday
• National Dance Day
• First Love Day
• Locate an Old Friend Day

Categories: Food days