America’s Love Affair with the Cheeseburger: A Celebration of National Cheeseburger Day

The cheeseburger, an iconic American culinary creation, has maintained its beloved status for nearly a century. Every year on September 18th, Americans across the country celebrate National Cheeseburger Day, honoring this delicious staple of American cuisine. Though the exact origins of the cheeseburger remain somewhat unclear, many food historians believe it emerged in the 1920s before cementing its place in American food culture by the 1940s. The magic of a cheeseburger lies in its perfect combination of simple ingredients: grilled beef, melted American cheese, and tangy pickles, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun. This winning formula has made cheeseburgers ubiquitous at everything from family barbecues to fast-food drive-thrus across the nation. For those looking to celebrate this national food holiday, several fast-food chains offer distinctive takes on this classic, each with its own loyal following and unique approach to burger craftsmanship.

Among the most celebrated fast-food cheeseburgers in America is Culver’s ButterBurger, a point of Midwestern pride. Originating in Wisconsin, Culver’s describes their signature burger as “a family specialty with a little extra.” What sets the ButterBurger apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The chain uses only fresh, never frozen beef that’s seared on a grill after you place your order. Each burger is topped with genuine Wisconsin-made American cheese and served on a lightly buttered, toasted bun – hence the name “ButterBurger.” This attention to detail creates a distinctively rich and satisfying flavor profile that has earned Culver’s a devoted following, particularly throughout the Midwest. With a price point of around $5.50, the ButterBurger offers excellent value for a quality fast-food burger experience, making it accessible to burger enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Another standout in the fast-food cheeseburger landscape is Shake Shack’s ShackBurger, which has risen from humble beginnings in New York to become a national sensation now available in 30 states. The ShackBurger exemplifies Shake Shack’s commitment to premium ingredients and careful preparation. Each burger features a quarter-pound patty made from 100% Angus beef, topped with American cheese, fresh tomato, crisp lettuce, and their proprietary ShackSauce, all served on a toasted potato bun. The ShackSauce, with its tangy and slightly spicy profile, has become a signature element that distinguishes the ShackBurger from its competitors. Though priced between $8 and $11 depending on location and whether you choose a single or double patty, the ShackBurger represents the slightly more upscale end of fast-food burgers, appealing to those willing to pay a premium for higher quality ingredients and distinctive flavor combinations that elevate the classic cheeseburger concept.

Five Guys has built its reputation on a straightforward yet expertly executed approach to the classic cheeseburger. With over 2,000 locations worldwide, the Virginia-based chain has transformed from a regional favorite to a global phenomenon. What makes a Five Guys cheeseburger special is its dedication to simplicity and abundance. Their standard cheeseburger features two fresh beef patties with American-style cheese melted between them, all placed on a soft, toasted sesame seed bun. Five Guys is also known for its extensive list of free toppings, allowing customers to customize their burgers to their exact preferences. The chain’s distinctive red and white checkered décor and complimentary barrels of peanuts create a casual, nostalgic atmosphere that enhances the burger-eating experience. Though on the pricier side at around $11, a Five Guys cheeseburger delivers on portion size and quality, making it a worthwhile splurge for serious burger aficionados who appreciate customization and generous portions.

For those looking for celebrity-endorsed burger options, Wahlburgers offers the “Our Burger,” created by the Wahlberg brothers – actor Mark and his brothers Paul and Donnie. This signature burger features a certified Angus Beef patty topped with American cheese, the standard array of fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles), and their distinctive Wahl Sauce, a ketchup-based condiment that adds a unique tang to the burger experience. Priced between $9 and $11 depending on location, the Our Burger represents the growing trend of celebrity-backed restaurant chains that aim to deliver a premium fast-casual dining experience. While not as widely available as some other chains on this list, Wahlburgers has cultivated a following among those who appreciate the combination of Hollywood star power and quality burger craftsmanship, creating a dining experience that feels more personal and curated than typical fast-food offerings.

No discussion of American cheeseburgers would be complete without acknowledging the influence of McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese, which has been a menu staple since its national debut in 1973. Despite being ranked fifth on Chowhound’s list, this iconic burger holds a special place in American food culture, as noted by culinary expert Donnie Gale, director of culinary at Big Table Restaurants. Gale eloquently captured the Quarter Pounder’s cultural significance, saying it “has stood the test of time and done so on a global stage.” The burger features a quarter-pound of 100% fresh beef that’s seasoned with salt and pepper, cooked to order on a flat iron grill, and topped with slivered onions, pickles, and two slices of American cheese on a sesame seed bun. What makes the Quarter Pounder remarkable is not just its taste but its consistency and accessibility across the globe, providing a familiar comfort food experience for Americans traveling abroad. Priced between $5 and $7, it remains one of the most budget-friendly quality cheeseburger options available nationwide. As Gale nostalgically shared, “The first bite of a Quarter Pounder instantly brings me back to the day I convinced my mother I was too old for Happy Meals and wanted a Quarter Pounder. She said yes, and the rest is history.” This sentiment perfectly captures how cheeseburgers have become more than just food—they’re vehicles for memory, comfort, and American identity that continue to bring joy to millions of people every day.