Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day with the 10 Best Cheeses for Your Ultimate Burger!

National Cheeseburger Day is upon us, and it’s time to pay homage to the ultimate comfort food: the cheeseburger. But here’s the thing—while the burger patty gets a lot of attention, the cheese is the real star that can make or break your burger experience. So why stick to the same old slice of cheddar when there’s a whole world of cheesy possibilities out there? Whether you're grilling at home or ordering out, this is the perfect day to take your cheeseburger game up a notch with some unexpected, mouthwatering cheese options. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the 10 best cheeses that will turn your burger into something legendary.

1. Gruyère – The Classy Contender

If your cheeseburger had a tuxedo, it would wear Gruyère. This Swiss cheese brings a rich, nutty flavor to the burger, offering a hint of sophistication. Pair it with caramelized onions, a juicy beef patty, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a cheeseburger that’s as classy as it is delicious.

Flavor combo to try: Gruyère + caramelized onions + sautéed mushrooms

Cheese brands to try: Emmi or Le Gruyère, Alpenhaus, Finlandia

2. Pepper Jack – For a Spicy Kick

Want a cheeseburger with a little attitude? Pepper Jack is your go-to. This Monterey Jack variant is studded with spicy peppers, adding a zesty kick to each bite. If you like your cheeseburger with a bit of heat, Pepper Jack pairs perfectly with jalapeños and a smoky chipotle mayo.

Flavor combo to try: Pepper Jack + jalapeños + bacon + avocado

Cheese brands to try: Sargento, Cabot, Tillamook

3. Blue Cheese – The Bold Choice

Blue cheese is like that wildcard friend who always brings the unexpected. Its sharp, tangy flavor works incredibly well with beef, especially when balanced with sweet or savory toppings. Crumble it onto your burger with some crisp lettuce and a drizzle of honey for a mouthwatering combination of salty and sweet.

Flavor combo to try: Blue cheese + arugula + fig jam + crispy onions

Cheese brands to try: Roquefort or Maytag Blue

4. Brie – Creamy and Dreamy

Think brie is just for fancy cheese plates? Think again! Brie on a cheeseburger is a creamy, indulgent delight. Its buttery softness oozes into the patty, creating a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth experience. Try it with some crisp apple slices or cranberry sauce for a burger with serious autumn vibes.

Flavor combo to try: Brie + green apple slices + arugula + balsamic glaze

Cheese brands to try: President, Double Cream Brie

5. Smoked Gouda – A Smoky Sensation

If you’re all about that rich, smoky flavor, smoked gouda is a game-changer. This cheese brings a hint of BBQ flair to your burger, making it ideal for backyard cookouts. Stack it high with barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and pickles for a burger that screams “smoky perfection.”

Flavor combo to try: Smoked gouda + BBQ sauce + pickles + crispy bacon

Cheese brands to try: Beemster, Carr Valley

6. Havarti – The Underrated Gem

Havarti is that underdog cheese that surprises you with its buttery, creamy texture and mild flavor. It melts beautifully over a burger and is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re adding sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even a fried egg, Havarti complements just about anything.

Flavor combo to try: Havarti + fried egg + arugula + sriracha aioli

Cheese brands to try: Castello or Arla

7. American Cheese – The Nostalgic Classic

Let’s be real: American cheese on a cheeseburger is iconic. That gooey, melty goodness is a childhood favorite for a reason. Its mild flavor lets the beef take center stage while adding that essential cheeseburger texture. It's the perfect cheese for when you want to keep it simple but crave that classic diner experience.

Flavor combo to try: American cheese + ketchup + lettuce + tomato + pickles

Cheese brands to try: Cowgirl Creamery American Cheese, Murray’s Cheese American Cheese

8. Sharp Cheddar – The Flavor Powerhouse

Cheddar is a cheeseburger staple, but opting for a sharp version adds extra oomph. Its intense flavor pairs well with bold toppings like crispy bacon and tangy pickles. Try using Tillamook Sharp Cheddar for a burger experience that’s robust and memorable.

Flavor combo to try: Sharp cheddar + bacon + pickles + garlic aioli

Cheese brands to try: Belgioioso Aged Sharp Cheddar, Tillamook

9. Provolone – Subtle and Smooth

Provolone may be subtle, but it’s a smooth operator. Its mild and creamy texture makes it an excellent pairing for rich or spicy toppings. Provolone is particularly good with roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms, offering a delicate contrast that lets the flavors of the burger shine.

Flavor combo to try: Provolone + roasted red peppers + grilled onions + basil mayo

Cheese Brands to Try: Auricchio Provolone, Murray’s Cheese Provolone

10. Feta – The Mediterranean Twist

Feta might not be your first thought for a cheeseburger, but its salty, tangy kick is a delightful surprise. Crumble it onto a lamb or beef patty with some cucumber slices and tzatziki sauce for a cheeseburger that transports you straight to a Greek island.

Flavor combo to try: Feta + cucumber + tzatziki + red onion

Cheese brands to try: Dodoni Feta, Athenos Feta 

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So, whether you're a classic cheeseburger enthusiast or a flavor adventurer, National Cheeseburger Day is your chance to elevate your burger experience with some extraordinary cheeses. Don’t settle for ordinary when you can experiment with rich, creamy, and downright exciting cheese options that transform every bite into a taste sensation. From the sophisticated notes of Gruyère to the bold kick of Pepper Jack, these 10 standout cheeses will help you craft a cheeseburger that's not just a meal, but a culinary celebration.

Go ahead, experiment with these flavors, and make every bite something worth celebrating.