Cheeseburgers have been a beloved American dish for nearly a century, and they even get their own special day. September 18th is National Cheeseburger Day in the U.S. The exact origins of this favorite food are somewhat unclear, but many think cheeseburgers emerged in the 1920s and became a staple in American cuisine by the 1940s.
There’s something timeless about the mix of grilled beef, soft bread, creamy American cheese, and tangy pickles. It’s a classic that can be found everywhere from backyard barbecues to fast food joints.
In a recent nostalgia-fueled discussion among millennials, there was a debate triggered by McDonald’s prices from 1991: “Has the taste improved?”
To celebrate the day, Chohound has put together a list of the top five fast food cheeseburgers across the country. Here’s what made the cut:
1. Culver Butter Burger
Culver’s butter burgers have built quite a reputation—especially in the Midwest. The chain proudly refers to them as “a little extra family specialization.” Each butter burger features fresh, unfrozen beef that’s grilled to order and topped with Wisconsin-made American cheese, all served on lightly buttered toasted bread. While prices may vary by location, they generally hover around $5.50, making them a great option for burger lovers.
2. Shack Burger from Shake Shack
The Shack Burger is a signature item from Shake Shack, which started in New York and has since expanded to 30 states. Each burger features a quarter-pound patty of 100% Angus beef. You can expect the usual fixings—American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and the special shack sauce. Depending on where you are, the price can range from $8 to $11.
3. Five Guys Cheeseburger
Five Guys is a go-to for many Americans in search of a hearty burger and fries. With around 2,000 locations worldwide, their cheeseburgers are particularly popular. Made with American cheese that melts over fresh patties and set in soft, toasted sesame bread, a cheeseburger here will cost you over $11, which, while a bit pricey, keeps it as a favorite among fans.
4. Wahlburgers
Wahlburgers, owned by actor Mark Wahlberg and his brothers, features certified Angus beef patties along with American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. They add their own Wahlsau, a ketchup-based sauce, which gives the burger a unique flavor. Prices range from $9 to $11, depending on the location.
5. McDonald’s Quarter Pounder and Cheese
The Quarter Pounder with Cheese made its debut in 1973 and has since become a go-to option for McDonald’s enthusiasts. It features a ¼ lb of 100% fresh beef, which is cooked to perfection, and is topped with American cheese, slivered onions, tangy pickles, all served on a sesame seed bun. Depending on the location, the price is generally between $5 and $7.
Insights from Experts
A restaurateur from Georgia mentioned that while the Quarter Pounder was ranked fifth, it remains a staple in discussions about fast food. Donnie Gale, food director at Big Table Restaurant, noted that these burgers have stood the test of time on an international scale. He shared a personal memory of enjoying a Quarter Pounder while convincing his mom that he was too old for a Happy Meal, marking a fond moment that still resonates with him today.
