National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day

Celebrated on 04/12/2026

Quick Fact

National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day is celebrated annually on April 12. The grilled cheese sandwich became popular in the United States during the Great Depression as an affordable and filling meal.

Origins and Establishment of National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day

The exact origins of National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day are unclear, but it is believed to have been created by the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board in the 1990s to promote cheese consumption. The day was chosen to coincide with April 12, possibly due to its proximity to National Grilled Cheese Month (April).

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, the grilled cheese sandwich has evolved from a simple combination of bread and cheese to gourmet variations with artisanal cheeses, additional ingredients like bacon or tomatoes, and fancy breads. Today, the day is celebrated by restaurants offering special deals, home cooks experimenting with recipes, and social media posts using #NationalGrilledCheeseSandwichDay.

Facts & General Observations

• The average American consumes about 30 pounds of cheese per year, much of it in grilled cheese sandwiches.
• The first recorded recipe for a grilled cheese sandwich appeared in 1902 in Sarah Tyson Rorer's cookbook "Mrs. Rorer's New Cook Book."
• A 2019 survey found that cheddar is the most popular cheese for grilled cheese sandwiches, followed by American and Swiss.

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