How American Cheese Makes The Perfect Burger Companion

Burgers are more than just a meal. They are the pinnacle of comfort food no matter where you are. Whether in the backyard with a barbecue, a quick drive-through at your favorite fast food joint, or a gourmet BurgerFi twist on the classic cheeseburger, burgers truly rule the fast food realm. So what else makes a great burger memorable? Well, it’s in the name! 

American cheese reigns as the quintessential burger topping amidst all varieties of cheese. Perfectly creamy texture, ideal salty-rich flavor balance, and magical melting properties seal the burger into an absolute juicy explosion. This blog will explore the tantalizing marriage of burgers and American cheese. Starting with some history, we’ll delve into American cheese’s intricate aspects and why it is so iconic. 

The History of American Cheese and Burgers

The history of American cheese began in the early 20th century when food processing was revolutionized. The urge to create a cheese that would last longer and melt better triggered its discovery. So by blending cheddar, milk, and emulsifying salts, a star was born. 

As the mid-20th century approached, the fast-food boom created a greater demand for a cheese that could ooze and melt satisfyingly, and American cheese came to the rescue. Cheese that melted evenly atop a burger patty became a natural personality for diners, fast-food restaurants, and home cooks alike. 

The cheeseburger that we all know and hold a soft spot for was born from this harmonious pairing. From roadside diners to gourmet burger restaurants, American cheese became a cornerstone in American cuisine, denoting comfort, simplicity, and pure blissful indulgence.

Why American Cheese is Perfect for Burgers?

Burgers are supposed to be ooey-gooey delicious and melting and dripping all across your hands — that’s the noteworthy sign that a burger is good! Burgers are held together by the buns, carried by the patty, and balanced by the cheese. So why exactly is American Cheese the best option for a cheeseburger? Let’s find out.  

Melting Capability

One of the prominent characteristics that make American cheese a standout is its natural melting capability. American cheese melts uniformly like a gooey, appetizing blanket over the hunky beef patty. The meltiness causes the cheese to evenly spread out and offers cheesy goodness in each bite.

Flavor

American cheese is a mildly thick cheese that enhances the savoriness of a burger. It is subtly salty with a smooth, creamy texture that teams well with the moist, rich flavor of the beef. American cheese is truly what gives the salty flavor that one expects in a burger. 

Versatility

Whether you’re a purist at heart who enjoys your cheeseburger as it is or one who likes to craft a cheeseburger with various add-ons, American cheese fits the role seamlessly. Pickles, onions, fried eggs, and jalapeños all complement American cheese well, making it the player of the day in cheeseburger construction.

Types of American Cheese

Like with every other type of cheese, there have been alternates and various types of American cheese. Let’s break it down for you.

Processed vs. Real American Cheese

Processed American cheese, i.e., the kind that is sold as slices. It is loved for its uniformity and exceptional melting ability. Kraft singles, as we know have been a classic and are used very commonly to prepare cheeseburgers at home.

Real American cheese, on the other hand, usually uses fewer additives and has a stronger flavor while being just as creamy. The stronger taste is often paired well with dishes like quesadillas, meatloaf, and much more!

Flavor Varieties

Flavored varieties of American cheese have seen a surge in popularity over the recent years. Adds an element of excitement for the enthusiasts! Think about jalapeño slices for added spice, smoked American cheese for added depth, or combinations including cheddar for a sharper flavor. These variations expand the realm of creating different kinds of cheeseburgers.

How to Use American Cheese on Your Burger

You may not believe it, but there’s real craft in using American cheese in a burger. To achieve the perfect flavor without overcooking and maintain that gooey texture, here’s how to use American cheese to its maximum potential.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to getting a great melty cheese, timing is key. Throw your slice of American cheese on top of your burger during the last minute of cooking. Use a lid or dome to help the cheese melt evenly.

Layering Order

Layering the ingredients is key. Place the cheese directly on the patty so that it melts nicely with the heat of the meat. Tradition asserts that other toppings should be arranged carefully on top of the cheese to develop a balance of flavors and prevent any ingredient from overwhelming the cheese.

Complementing with Toppings

American cheese is at its best when paired with complementary toppings. Briney, salty pickles, sweet caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and tangy sauces like barbecue or mustard are known to complement its rich yet mild flavor.

The Science Behind the Perfect Melt

The secret to why American cheese melts better than its counterparts is in its emulsifiers. This helps fix the proteins and fats in such a way that American cheese melts into a gooey blob with no oil separating. This is why American cheese gives that creamy, gooey feeling quite suitable for cheeseburgers. 

In comparison, cheeses like cheddar or Swiss are not made with these emulsifiers and, thus, will not melt smoothly consistently. They can’t possibly give the same cheeseburger experience as American cheese, although they have powerful flavors that can elevate your burger.

Why American Cheese is Here to Stay

American cheese has survived multiple food trends and never tarnishes. This cheese is undoubtedly the best kept in diners, fast-food restaurants, and gourmet burger joints. It is a simple, trusted, and an all-time favorite. And this one has a charm that can win countless more hearts and taste buds worldwide.

American cheese has remained constant throughout the years — evidence that some classics are here to stay, regardless of whatever trendy toppings are going on in the burger arena. As the saying goes: “One can never beat the OG in the game.”

The Role of American Cheese in BurgerFi’s Signature Burgers

American cheese is not just a topping for a burger; it is the essence of the cheeseburger experience. Creamy, mild-mannered, and the finest melting cheese with a perfect beefy patty. It truly conducts the definition of a cheeseburger with the best of qualities. Creamy, gooey, and flavorful— are the three words that can be used to mark the legacy of American cheese.

American cheese dons the leading role in our most-wanted menu items: the BurgerFi Cheeseburger and the Double Cheeseburger. Our chefs ensure that every slice is perfectly melted, thereby elevating the taste of our all-natural beef patties and fresh toppings. The result? A burger that is both indulgently satisfying and makes you want to eat more. 

Are you ready to enjoy amazing, gooey, cheesy cheeseburgers at BurgerFi? Order a take-out now!