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National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day celebrates one of America’s most beloved comfort foods – a simple yet delicious combination of melted cheese between slices of crispy, buttery bread.

Quick Facts

When is it: April 12th annually
Tagged as: Food & Beverage Holiday
What’s the hashtag: #GrilledCheeseSandwichDay
When was it founded: Early 1960s
Who founded it: Origins unclear, but popularized by the American dairy industry

History

The modern grilled cheese sandwich emerged in the 1920s when sliced bread and processed cheese became widely available. During the Great Depression, it was known as “cheese dreams” and became popular as an affordable meal. The U.S. Navy helped popularize it during World War II by serving “American cheese filling sandwiches” to troops.

Timeline

  • 1920s: First modern grilled cheese appears as open-faced sandwiches
  • 1914: Kraft begins mass-producing processed cheese
  • 1960s: Term “grilled cheese” is coined
  • Present: Evolved into countless gourmet variations

Upcoming Dates

YearDateDay
2025April 12Saturday
2026April 12Sunday
2027April 12Monday

Observed

The day is celebrated by making and enjoying grilled cheese sandwiches, hosting grilled cheese parties, and sharing recipes on social media.

Fun Facts About Grilled Cheese

  • The most expensive grilled cheese costs $214 at Serendipity 3 in NYC
  • Baltimore, San Diego, and Cincinnati are America’s top grilled cheese-loving cities
  • Americans consume approximately 2.2 billion grilled cheese sandwiches annually

Quiz

  1. When was the term “grilled cheese” first used?
  2. What was the original name for grilled cheese sandwiches?
    (Answers: 1960s, “cheese dreams”)

FAQs

Q: What’s the secret to perfect grilled cheese?
A: Using mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside creates a crispier golden crust

Importance of Grilled Cheese Day

This celebration highlights culinary innovation, comfort food culture, and the evolution of American cuisine while bringing people together through shared food experiences.

  • National Cheese Lovers Day
  • National Sandwich Day
  • National Cheese Toast Day
  • National Dairy Month