Patrick Oconnell
Is today National Grilled Cheese Day? Yes, it is! 12 April is the day to celebrate the ultimate comfort food – the grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you like yours with American cheese, cheddar, gouda, or Munster, on white, wheat, or gluten-free bread, there's no denying that grilled cheese is a delicious and inexpensive treat. It's no wonder that Americans consume them by the billions! So, how will you be marking the occasion? Will you be making your own or taking advantage of restaurant specials? Perhaps you'll be donating bread and cheese to a food bank to help those facing food insecurity. However you choose to celebrate, happy National Grilled Cheese Day!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date | April 12 |
| Occurrence | Annual |
| Purpose | Celebrate the simplicity and comfort of grilled cheese sandwiches |
| History | Ancient Romans combined bread and cheese, creating a similar dish to grilled cheese |
| Consumption Statistics | 2.4 billion grilled cheese sandwiches were eaten at home in the 12 months ending in February 2025 |
| Consumption Statistics | 171 million grilled cheese sandwiches were ordered at restaurants and retail food service outlets |
| Consumption Statistics | 47% of grilled cheese lovers keep it simple with just melted cheese between toasted bread |
| Consumption Statistics | American and Cheddar cheese are the most popular, chosen by 49% and 46% of people respectively |
| Consumption Statistics | Competitive eater Joey Chestnut holds the record for eating 47 grilled cheese sandwiches in 10 minutes |
| Social Media Trends | #GrilledCheeseDay |
| Food Bank Initiatives | Donate bread and cheese to local food banks to help families facing food insecurity |
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What You'll Learn
History of the grilled cheese sandwich
The grilled cheese sandwich has become a staple in the diets of many and is beloved by people of all ages. Although the exact origin of the grilled cheese sandwich remains a mystery, the influence it has had on food culture is undeniable.
Food historians have noted that humans have been pairing bread with cheese for centuries. Even ancient Roman cookbooks advised combining the two at mealtimes. However, cooking bread and cheese together is a more recent phenomenon. The first dependable reference to a grilled cheese sandwich in print is from 1926, although similar recipes for "melted cheese" and "toasted cheese" sandwiches can be found in cookbooks as early as 1902. The term "grilled cheese" itself did not appear in print until the 1960s.
The grilled cheese sandwich became very popular in the 1920s and 1930s, with the huge increase in restaurant dining and the introduction of sliced bread and processed cheese. During the Great Depression, grilled cheese sandwiches, also known as "cheese dreams", became a staple in American households as they were inexpensive, nutritious, and filling. The sandwiches were also popular in diners and lunch counters, often paired with tomato soup.
During World War II, grilled cheese sandwiches were served to troops overseas and became a favorite of the Allied Armed Forces. After the war, grilled cheese sandwiches became a regular part of school lunches and meal planning for housewives. The sandwiches have since become a comfort food for both adults and children, found on the menus of both delis and upscale restaurants, as well as food trucks and gourmet grilled cheese establishments.
Over the years, there have been numerous innovations and experiments with grilled cheese sandwiches, including various types of bread and cheese, and the addition of meat and other ingredients. The grilled cheese sandwich has truly stood the test of time and continues to capture the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide.
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How to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich
National Grilled Cheese Day is celebrated on April 12. It is a day to celebrate the power of comfort food in bringing joy and nourishment to those in need. A simple grilled cheese sandwich is a staple in many households as it is simple, inexpensive, and can be nutritious when paired with the right ingredients.
Now, here is how to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich:
The perfect grilled cheese sandwich has a crispy, salty, buttery exterior and a gooey, molten cheese center. The key to achieving this is to use a combination of butter and mayonnaise on the bread. The butter adds flavor, while the mayo ensures even browning and a crispy exterior. You can also add thin slices of onion or jalapeño on top of the cheese for a spicy kick.
For the bread, it is important to choose a type that is not too thick (which may prevent the cheese from melting), too thin or soft (which may cause it to get squished by the cheese), or too holey (which may cause cheese to escape). A thick-sliced bread like Texas Toast is a good option, or you could go for a rosemary chiabata bread.
As for the cheese, a combination of two types of cheese works well. Popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, havarti, gruyere, and American cheese.
To make the sandwich, spread 1/2 tablespoon of butter on one side of each slice of bread. You can also add a thin layer of mayonnaise to the butter for extra crispness. Place a cast-iron skillet or heavy non-stick pan over medium/low heat. If using a griddle, set it to 275˚F. Place the slices of bread in the skillet with the buttered side down. Stack the cheeses on one piece of toast and add any additional toppings. Once the bread is golden brown, close the sandwich with the crisp sides on the outside. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until the bread is a rich golden brown and the cheese has melted. Cut the sandwich in half diagonally and serve.
Enjoy your perfect grilled cheese sandwich!
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Restaurants offering deals for National Grilled Cheese Day
National Grilled Cheese Day is celebrated on April 12. This day is dedicated to one of America's most beloved comfort foods. Many restaurants offer special menus or discounts to mark the occasion. Here are some of the deals offered by restaurants for National Grilled Cheese Day:
Omaha Steaks
Omaha Steaks is an online shop that offered a 50% discount on its Mini Lobster Grilled Cheese, which is made with Maine lobster, four cheeses, and a French baguette. The discount is valid when you purchase any other item on the site.
Orrman’s Cheese Shop
TODAY.com readers can save $20 on Orrman’s Cheese Shop‘s grilled cheese kit between April 12 and 14 using the code CHEESEPLEASE. The kit includes half-pound pieces of French Raclette and Prairie Breeze cheddar, along with two condiments: Quince & Apple’s fig and black tea preserves, and Eat This Yum! bacon marmalade. It is shipped in an insulated tote.
Pita Pit
On National Grilled Cheese Day, Pita Pit customers can get a free Greek grilled cheese with any purchase made through the restaurant’s app using the code GGCFree24.
Sonic
Sonic, a restaurant chain, offers various deals, discounts, and freebies on National Grilled Cheese Day.
Dorothy Lane Market
TODAY.com readers can enjoy a 20% discount on all grilled cheese kits at Dorothy Lane Market until April 16 by using the code TODAY20. They offer a variety of kits, such as apple and cheddar grilled cheese, truffle grilled cheese, Irish grilled cheese, and bacon and smoked gouda grilled cheese.
Formaggio Kitchen
Formaggio Kitchen offered a 15% discount on New School Premium American Cheese online between April 12 and 14 to celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day.
Hero Bread
Hero Bread offered a 10% discount on sliced breads through April 14 using the code CHEESE10. The offer excluded subscription purchases.
La Madeleine
La Madeleine introduced a Duet Magnifique deal, which included a four-cheese grilled cheese and a cup of tomato basil soup, for $9.99.
McAlister’s Deli
McAlister’s Deli rewards members could get a free Kids Toastie (plus taxes and fees) when they purchased an adult entrée on National Grilled Cheese Day at participating locations.
Grandmas Chicken Soup
Grandmas Chicken Soup created a custom discount code for TODAY.com readers for National Grilled Cheese Day. Using the code TODAY, customers could save $10 on the company’s soup and grilled cheese sandwich kit between April 12 and 13. The kit included a half-gallon container (four to six servings) of soup, one loaf of Pepperidge Farm Sandwich Bread, one pound of pre-sliced Cabot American cheese, and a package of sandwich toaster bags.
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How to celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day
National Grilled Cheese Day is celebrated on April 12. It's a day to honour one of America's most beloved comfort foods, bringing warmth and joy to families. Here are some fun and delicious ways to celebrate this cheesy occasion:
Host a Grilled Cheese Party
Get your friends and family together and show off your grilled cheese creations! Prepare a variety of breads, cheeses, and toppings, and let your guests build their own custom sandwiches. You can even ask everyone to bring their favourite fillings and cheeses to add to the fun. Small sandwiches are ideal for sampling multiple combinations. Don't forget to include some classic grilled cheese sandwiches for those who prefer them plain.
Get Creative with Ingredients
Take your grilled cheese to the next level by experimenting with different ingredients. Try using whole grain bread instead of plain white bread. For the cheese, you can go beyond the basics and use cheddar, gouda, or Munster. Add some vegetables like tomatoes, spinach, or even kimchi for a unique twist. If you're feeling extra adventurous, create a stuffed grilled cheese with fillings like broccoli, carrots, tomato, and pesto sauce.
Pair with Soup
Complete your grilled cheese experience by pairing it with a warm and comforting soup. Tomato soup is the classic partner, but feel free to experiment with other options. You can even dunk your sandwich in the soup for the ultimate comfort food combo!
Support Food Insecurity Initiatives
National Grilled Cheese Day is also about helping those facing food insecurity. Consider donating bread, cheese, and other sandwich-making ingredients to local food banks or organisations like the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank. You can also host a grilled cheese drive to collect ingredients and encourage others to contribute. Volunteering your time or spreading awareness about food insecurity can also make a significant impact.
Explore Restaurants' Special Menus
Many restaurants offer special grilled cheese menus or discounts on National Grilled Cheese Day. Check out places like The Grilled Cheeserie in Nashville, Tennessee, or Cheesie's Pub and Grub in Chicago, Illinois, for some delicious grilled cheese options.
So, get your cheese slices ready and celebrate the simplicity and deliciousness of grilled cheese sandwiches on this special day!
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Grilled cheese as a comfort food for those in need
Grilled cheese is a comfort food that is beloved by many. It is a simple yet delicious combination of bread and cheese, with the option of adding other ingredients to elevate the dish. This sandwich is a quick, satisfying, and inexpensive meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The origins of the grilled cheese sandwich can be traced back to ancient Rome, where a similar dish was created by combining bread and cheese. However, the term "grilled cheese" emerged in the 1960s when an additional slice of bread was placed on top, making it a sandwich. During the Great Depression, the combination of pre-sliced bread and processed cheese grew in popularity, making the grilled cheese an affordable and filling meal.
The grilled cheese sandwich holds a special place in the hearts of many, evoking childhood memories and providing a sense of warmth and joy. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, a quick lunch, or a comforting dinner. The simplicity of the grilled cheese lies in its accessibility and ease of preparation, requiring only a few basic ingredients that are typically found in most households.
On National Grilled Cheese Day, celebrated annually on April 12th, the focus is not only on the delicious sandwich but also on its potential to provide comfort and nourishment to those facing food insecurity. Food banks, such as the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, recognize the importance of collecting and distributing donations of bread, cheese, and other pantry staples to families in need. These ingredients allow families to create simple yet comforting meals, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry.
Grilled cheese sandwiches are more than just a tasty treat; they have the power to bring people together and provide comfort during challenging times. Whether it's a classic combination of bread and cheese or a creative variation, the grilled cheese is a true comfort food that can make a lasting impact on those in need.
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Frequently asked questions
National Grilled Cheese Day is celebrated on April 12.
You can celebrate by making your own grilled cheese sandwich or going out to a restaurant that serves them. You could also donate bread and cheese to a food bank to help those facing food insecurity.
A grilled cheese sandwich is made with bread, butter, and cheese. The ancient Romans were the first civilization to bake bread and combine it with cheese.
A basic grilled cheese sandwich is made with two slices of plain white bread and slices of processed or American cheese. You can experiment with different types of bread and cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or muenster.
Tomato soup is a classic side dish to serve with grilled cheese sandwiches. This pairing became popular during the Great Depression as an inexpensive and filling meal.
