National Grilled Cheese Day (April 12)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

Imagine biting into a warm, crispy sandwich with golden-brown bread and gooey, melted cheese oozing from the center.

This simple yet irresistible creation is celebrated every year on April 12th as National Grilled Cheese Day.

Whether you prefer the classic version or enjoy experimenting with gourmet twists, this day is all about indulging in one of the most beloved comfort foods.

From its rich history to creative recipes, let’s dive into everything you need to know about the day, one of the many unusual holidays in April.

When is the Holiday?

National Grilled Cheese Day is celebrated annually on April 12th. It’s a dedicated day to appreciate the timeless sandwich that has been a staple in American kitchens for generations.

Who Invented the Holiday?

The origins of the cheesy day are unclear, as no specific individual or organization has officially claimed credit for establishing it.

However, its popularity likely grew from the love people have for this simple, satisfying sandwich, bolstered by social media and food enthusiasts eager to celebrate delicious traditions.

The History of Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese sandwiches have been enjoyed in various forms for centuries.

Early versions date back to ancient civilizations where people combined bread with melted cheese. However, the modern grilled cheese as we know it became popular in the United States in the 1920s when inexpensive sliced bread and processed cheese became widely available.

During the Great Depression, grilled cheese sandwiches provided an affordable and filling meal.

By the 1940s, the dish was commonly served to U.S. Navy sailors, further cementing its place in American cuisine.

Today, grilled cheese remains a beloved comfort food, with countless variations enjoyed worldwide.

Top 5 Fascinating Facts About Grilled Cheese

  1. The largest grilled cheese sandwich ever made weighed over 3,000 pounds and was created in 2000 in Minnesota. It required over 300 pounds of butter and 600 pounds of cheese.
  2. The classic pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup became popular during the Great Depression when the U.S. government provided school lunches that included inexpensive cheese sandwiches and tomato soup to meet nutritional guidelines.
  3. A grilled cheese sandwich once sold for $28,000 on eBay because it appeared to have the image of the Virgin Mary toasted into the bread.
  4. There’s a grilled cheese competition called the Grilled Cheese Invitational, where chefs and home cooks compete to create the best version of the beloved sandwich.
  5. April is National Grilled Cheese Month, meaning the celebration doesn’t have to stop on April 12th. Many restaurants and food enthusiasts honor grilled cheese all month long.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Host a grilled cheese tasting party where guests bring their own unique grilled cheese variations to share. Have a panel of taste-testers vote for the best creation!
  • Try a new twist on the classic sandwich by experimenting with different types of bread, cheese, and toppings such as caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even fruit preserves.
  • Pair your grilled cheese with a gourmet soup like homemade tomato bisque, French onion soup, or butternut squash soup to enhance the experience.
  • Take a grilled cheese cooking class either online or at a local culinary school to perfect your sandwich-making skills.
  • Create a social media challenge by posting your grilled cheese masterpiece using #NationalGrilledCheeseDay and challenging friends to make their own unique versions.
  • Surprise someone with a grilled cheese delivery. Prepare and drop off a homemade sandwich for a friend, family member, or neighbor who could use a little comfort food.
  • Visit a famous grilled cheese restaurant and sample their specialty sandwiches to see how professionals take it to the next level.
  • Make a dessert grilled cheese with ingredients like mascarpone, dark chocolate, and fresh strawberries for a sweet take on the classic.
  • Teach kids how to make grilled cheese. A fun and simple cooking activity that introduces children to basic kitchen skills.
  • Donate food supplies like bread and cheese to a local shelter to help those in need enjoy a warm meal.

10 Must-Try Grilled Cheese Recipes

  1. Caprese Grilled Cheese. Layers of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato with a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a fresh, Italian-inspired twist.
  2. Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese. Shredded buffalo chicken mixed with blue cheese dressing and melted cheddar gives this sandwich a spicy, tangy kick.
  3. Pesto Grilled Cheese. A sophisticated blend of Gouda, Parmesan, pesto, and tomatoes, making it a flavorful and elegant sandwich.
  4. Egg-in-a-Hole Grilled Cheese. A fun and interactive twist where an egg is cooked in the center of the sandwich, creating a rich, creamy filling.
  5. Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese. A sweet-savory masterpiece featuring melted brie, crisp apple slices, and cinnamon-sugar-coated bread.
  6. Raspberry Brie Grilled Cheese. A delightful combination of brie cheese and raspberries, offering a balance of tartness and creamy richness.
  7. Brisket Grilled Cheese. A hearty and indulgent option, using leftover brisket paired with melted cheese for an ultra-savory experience.
  8. Air Fryer Turkey Bacon Grilled Cheese. A quick and easy option with crispy turkey bacon and smoked gouda, prepared to perfection in an air fryer.
  9. Bacon Pimento Grilled Cheese. A Southern classic made with homemade pimento cheese and crispy bacon.
  10. Grilled Cheese with Figs and Hot Honey. A gourmet blend of sharp cheddar, sweet figs, and a drizzle of spicy hot honey for a unique flavor combination.

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Links to Resources

Related Holidays

Grilled cheese lovers don’t have to stop celebrating after April 12th.

National Cheese Lovers Day on January 20th honors all things cheese, making it a great time to explore different types of grilled cheese sandwiches.

National Ice Cream Sandwich Day on August 2nd is a fun way to continue celebrating sandwiches—just in a sweeter form!

National Cheese Day on June 4th highlights the love of cheese in all its varieties, while National Cheesesteak Day on March 24th gives another reason to indulge in a cheesy sandwich.

Finally, National Cheese Pizza Day on September 5th is a perfect excuse to enjoy another cheese-filled favorite.

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