When thinking of American food, cheeseburgers naturally come to mind. But are they truly a product of the United States?
Since today (Friday, September 18, 2026) is National Cheeseburger Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to investigate. Let’s work up an appetite by mulling this over before getting into all the best freebies and deals to celebrate.
Who invented the burger?
Like many culinary delights, the burger wasn’t so much invented but evolved in the great melting pot of the United States.
One of its inspirations can be traced back to German immigrants of the late 1840s who brought over Frikadellen, a dish of cooked chopped beef. Some believe the popularity of hot dogs helped introduce the bun to the party at the end of the 1800s.
Burgers were served at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, further cementing their American legacy.
Soon, meat grinders were common household items, and fast food chains began taking advantage of the new industrial versions.
When did cheese come into the picture?
We do know, however, who is credited with first throwing a piece of cheese on a burger.