National Cheeseburger Day 2024: Best Deals, Recipes, and Celebration Ideas

National Cheeseburger Day is an unofficial food holiday in the United States, typically celebrated on September 18th each year.

This day celebrates one of America’s most iconic foods – the cheeseburger. Many restaurants and fast food chains often offer special deals or promotions on this day, such as

Wendy’s canada Cheeseburger day offer

Wendy’s is offering a promotion from September 18 to 25, where customers can buy a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for $1 by purchasing any other menu item. This deal is available exclusively through the Wendy’s app and uses fresh, never frozen, 100% Canadian beef. The offer is valid for a limited time and must be redeemed via the app.

BurgerFi National Cheese Burger Day offer

On September 18, for National Cheeseburger Day, BurgerFi is offering its premium cheeseburger for only $4 with the purchase of a Coca-Cola Freestyle Beverage. This special promotion is part of the celebration by BurgerFi, owned by BurgerFi International, Inc.

History of the Cheeseburger:

Cultural icon: By the 1960s and 1970s, the cheeseburger had become a staple of American cuisine and a symbol of American food culture.

Early origins: While the hamburger dates back to the late 19th century, the cheeseburger is a recent invention.

Contested invention: several places claim to have invented the cheeseburger:

Lionel Sternberger in Pasadena, California (1926)

Charles Kaelin’s Kaelin’s restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky (1934)

Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In in Denver, Colorado (1935)

Trademark: Interestingly, Louis Ballast trademarked the name “cheeseburger” in 1935.

Rise in popularity: Cheeseburgers became increasingly popular in the 1940s and 1950s, coinciding with the growth of fast-food chains.

On National Cheeseburger Day, people often enjoy eating cheeseburgers, sharing photos of their meals on social media, or trying out new cheeseburger recipes at home.

Classic All-American Cheeseburger Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) 80/20 ground beef
• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 hamburger buns (preferably sesame seed)
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 8 dill pickle slices
• Ketchup and yellow mustard, to taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than your bun. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to create a small dimple. This prevents the burger from puffing up during cooking.
2. Season both sides of each patty generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
4. Once the pan is hot, add the patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side for medium doneness.
5. Flip the burgers and immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked to your desired doneness.
6. While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns.
7. To assemble, spread ketchup and mustard on the bottom bun. Add a lettuce leaf, followed by the cheeseburger patty.
8. Top the patty with a slice of tomato, red onion rings, and two pickle slices.
9. Add any additional condiments to the top bun, then place it on the burger.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy your classic All-American cheeseburger!

Tips:

• For juicier burgers, avoid overworking the meat when shaping the patties.
• Let the burgers rest for a minute after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
• You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar, Swiss, or any other melting cheese of your choice.
• Feel free to adjust the toppings and condiments to your personal preference.

DIY Cheeseburger Bar Guide

Proteins:

• Beef patties (80/20 mix for best flavor)
• Turkey patties
• Veggie patties (store-bought or homemade black bean burgers)
• Grilled chicken breasts
• Portobello mushroom caps (for vegetarian option)

Cheeses:

• Cheddar (mild and sharp)
• American
• Swiss
• Blue cheese
• Goat cheese
• Pepper jack
• Smoked gouda
• Brie

Buns:

• Classic sesame seed
• Brioche
• Pretzel buns
• Whole wheat
• Gluten-free options
• Lettuce wraps (for low-carb option)

Toppings:

• Lettuce (iceberg and arugula)
• Sliced tomatoes
• Red onion rings
• Pickles (dill and sweet)
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Caramelized onions
• Jalapeños (fresh and pickled)
• Crispy bacon strips
• Fried eggs

Sauces and Condiments:

• Ketchup
• Yellow mustard
• Dijon mustard
• Mayonnaise
• BBQ sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Chipotle mayo
• Ranch dressing
• Hot sauce
• Sriracha

Setting Up:

1. Arrange items in logical order: buns, proteins, cheeses, toppings, and sauces.
2. Use chafing dishes to keep meats warm.
3. Provide tongs, spoons, and other appropriate serving utensils.
4. Label each item, especially for guests with dietary restrictions.
5. Include a “Build Your Burger” instruction card with suggested combinations.

Tips:

• Offer a variety of flavors and textures for a more interesting experience.
• Include options for different dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
• Provide small plates for guests to collect toppings before assembling their burger.
• Consider having a toaster nearby for guests who prefer toasted buns.

Tips for hosting a cheeseburger-themed event for adults on National Cheeseburger Day

Theme and Invitations:

• Create burger-shaped invitations or use digital invites with burger graphics
• Ask guests to RSVP with their favorite burger topping for a personalized touch

Decor:

• Use red, yellow, and brown as your primary colors to mimic ketchup, mustard, and burgers
• Hang burger-themed posters or vintage diner signs
• Use checkered tablecloths for a classic diner feel
• Create a photo booth area with burger-themed props (oversized foam burgers, condiment bottles, chef hats)

Menu Planning:

• Offer a variety of burger options, including beef, chicken, fish, and vegetarian
• Include gourmet toppings like truffle aioli, caramelized onions, or artisanal cheeses
• Provide lighter options like slider-sized burgers or lettuce wraps
• Don’t forget sides: gourmet fries, onion rings, and creative salads

Beverage Pairings:

• Offer a selection of craft beers that pair well with burgers
• Create a signature burger-themed cocktail (e.g., “The Big Cheese” or “Patty Melt Martini”)
• Include milkshakes (both regular and boozy versions) for a classic diner touch

Interactive Elements:

• Set up a DIY burger bar (refer to the earlier artifact for details)
• Host a burger-building competition with prizes for the most creative or best-tasting burger
• Organize a blind taste test of different cheeses or condiments

Entertainment:

• Create a playlist with food-themed songs or classic diner tunes
• Set up lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga with burger-themed designs
• Screen a burger-related movie or TV show clips (e.g., “Bob’s Burgers” or “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle”)

Learning Opportunities:

• Invite a local chef to demonstrate gourmet burger-making techniques
• Offer a beer or wine pairing tutorial specifically for burgers
• Share fun burger facts or history throughout the event

Party Favors:

• Give out mini grilling kits or gourmet burger seasoning blends
• Provide recipe cards for unique burger creations from the event
• Offer branded bottle openers or coasters as mementos

Responsible Hosting:

• Ensure there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options
• Have a plan for guests who may need a ride home
• Provide take-home containers for leftovers to reduce waste

Post-Event Engagement:

• Create a hashtag for the event and encourage guests to share photos
• Follow up with guests by sharing photos and asking for their favourite moments
• Consider making it an annual event, perhaps coinciding with National Cheeseburger Day

Fun Facts About Cheeseburgers

• Cheeseburger in Paradise: Jimmy Buffett’s popular song, “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” was inspired by his longing for a cheeseburger while sailing in the Caribbean.
• Most Expensive Cheeseburger: The most expensive cheeseburger in the world, named “The Golden Boy,” was sold in the Netherlands for about $6,000, featuring ingredients like gold leaf, truffle, and wagyu beef.
• Burger Statistics: Americans consume nearly 50 billion burgers annually, and the cheeseburger remains one of the top choices, accounting for about 71% of all burgers ordered in the United States.
• Cheese Varieties: While American cheese is the classic choice, cheeseburgers today are often topped with cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, blue cheese, and many other varieties.

Regional cheeseburgers in the USA reflect the diverse culinary landscape of the country. Each region has its own take on this classic dish, often incorporating local ingredients, flavors, and traditions. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic regional cheeseburgers across the United States:

Regional Cheeseburger Specialities

1. California-Style Cheeseburger

• Features: The California-style cheeseburger is known for its fresh ingredients and often includes avocado or guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and sometimes sprouts.
• Famous Example: The In-N-Out Burger, particularly their “Double-Double” and “Animal Style” burgers, which include two patties, two slices of cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and a tangy sauce.
• Signature Ingredients: Fresh produce like lettuce, tomato, and avocado; American or cheddar cheese; special house sauce (often a variation of Thousand Island dressing).

2. Juicy Lucy (Minnesota)

• Features: The Juicy Lucy, or Jucy Lucy, originated in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is characterized by cheese stuffed inside the beef patty rather than on top.
• Famous Example: Two bars, Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, both claim to have invented the Juicy Lucy. Each offers a slightly different version with molten cheese oozing from the middle of the patty.
• Signature Ingredients: Ground beef patty stuffed with American cheese (or sometimes cheddar or pepper jack), pickles, and onions.

3. Oklahoma Onion Burger

• Features: A Depression-era invention, the Oklahoma Onion Burger is famous for its thinly sliced onions that are smashed into the patty as it cooks, creating a caramelized onion crust.
• Famous Example: Sid’s Diner in El Reno, Oklahoma, is well-known for this style, serving burgers with grilled onions, pickles, and mustard.
• Signature Ingredients: Thinly sliced onions pressed into a beef patty, American cheese, pickles, mustard, and a soft bun.

4. Green Chile Cheeseburger (New Mexico)

• Features: This burger is popular in New Mexico and features roasted green chile peppers, which provide a smoky, mildly spicy kick.
• Famous Example: Blake’s Lotaburger is a well-known chain in New Mexico, famous for its green chile cheeseburgers.
• Signature Ingredients: Roasted Hatch green chiles, beef patty, cheddar or pepper jack cheese, and sometimes lettuce and tomato.

5. Pimento Cheeseburger (South Carolina and the South)

• Features: The Southern-style cheeseburger is often topped with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread, a beloved Southern staple.
• Famous Example: Poe’s Tavern in Charleston, South Carolina, offers a popular pimento cheeseburger.
• Signature Ingredients: Pimento cheese (a blend of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos), beef patty, and toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles.

6. The Butter Burger (Wisconsin)

• Features: Originating from America’s Dairyland, the butter burger is topped with a generous pat of butter, which melts over the hot beef patty, adding richness and flavor.
• Famous Example: Culver’s, a Wisconsin-based chain, has made the butter burger famous with its simple yet decadent style.
• Signature Ingredients: Beef patty, American cheese, and a thick pat of Wisconsin butter, served on a toasted bun.

7. Texas BBQ Burger

• Features: In Texas, the BBQ Burger takes center stage, combining the best of both worlds—barbecue and burgers. It often includes barbecue sauce, crispy onion rings, bacon, and sometimes smoked brisket or pulled pork.
• Famous Example: Twisted Root Burger Co. and Hopdoddy Burger Bar in Texas offer variations of the BBQ burger.
• Signature Ingredients: Beef patty, cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, bacon, onion rings, pickles, and sometimes smoked meat toppings.

8. Louisiana Cajun Burger

• Features: This burger reflects the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine, often featuring a blackened beef patty seasoned with Cajun spices, and sometimes topped with andouille sausage or pepper jack cheese.
• Famous Example: The Company Burger in New Orleans is known for its delicious Cajun-inspired burgers.
• Signature Ingredients: Blackened beef patty, Cajun spices, pepper jack cheese, and spicy remoulade or aioli.

9. North Carolina Slaw Burger

• Features: A classic in North Carolina, the slaw burger features a beef patty topped with a generous helping of creamy coleslaw. It provides a cool, crunchy contrast to the hot, juicy burger.
• Famous Example: Brooks’ Sandwich House in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a popular spot for a classic slaw burger.
• Signature Ingredients: Beef patty, American cheese, and creamy coleslaw, often accompanied by chili or mustard.

10. New York Deli Burger

• Features: The New York Deli Burger often combines elements of a traditional burger with deli favorites, like pastrami, Swiss cheese, and mustard, creating a fusion of flavors.
• Famous Example: Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien in New York City offers unique variations inspired by classic deli flavors.
• Signature Ingredients: Beef patty, pastrami or corned beef, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on a soft bun.

National Cheeseburger Day is a fun and tasty way to celebrate one of America’s favorite foods. Whether you choose to enjoy a classic cheeseburger, create a gourmet version, or try something entirely new, September 18th offers a delicious reason to indulge. So, grab a cheeseburger, share it with friends, and savor the day dedicated to this iconic dish!