Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 32 oz softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups sugar and 1 tsp vanilla, mixing until well combined. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Fold in 1 cup sour cream gently.
Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Create the Strawberry Swirl: In a small bowl, blend 1 cup diced fresh strawberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice until the strawberries are well-mashed. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture onto the top of the cheesecake filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake filling to create a marbled effect.
Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
Cool and Refrigerate: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to fully set.