Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger, perfect for any occasion. These juicy, buttery treats bring together fresh beef and toasted, buttered buns to create a flavor experience that rivals any fast-casual restaurant. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious meal that captures the essence of Wisconsin!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Burger Patties
- For the Buns
- For Topping (as desired)
- How to Make Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
- Step 2: Smash the Burger Patties
- Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Step 4: Assemble Your Butter Burgers
- How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Classic Toppings
- Cheese Options
- Condiments
- Garnishes
- How to Perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Reheating Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Wisconsin Butter Burgers special?
- Can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
- How do I achieve crispy edges on my burgers?
- Are Wisconsin Butter Burgers suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, these burgers are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and high-quality beef creates an irresistible taste.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings to make each burger unique.
- Easy Cooking Method: Smash-cooking ensures crispy edges and maximum flavor without complicated techniques.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for casual dinners, BBQs, or game day gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into your Wisconsin Butter Burgers recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment can make cooking faster and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Large spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet: Provides even heat for perfect searing of the burgers.
- Large spatula: Essential for smashing the burgers and flipping them without breaking apart.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for prepping your toppings quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- neutral, high smoke point vegetable oil of choice
- 1 ¼ pounds 85% lean ground beef, divided into 4 equal portions (approx. 5 ounces each)
- kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season
For the Buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 4 brioche buns or hamburger buns of choice
For Topping (as desired)
- 4 slices American cheese or cheese of choice
- shredded iceberg lettuce
- sliced tomato
- sliced onion
- sliced dill pickles
- mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, etc.
How to Make Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Preheat a cast iron griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. After about 2 minutes of preheating, brush the cooking surface lightly with oil. Meanwhile, divide your ground beef into four equal portions without rolling them into balls. Season each portion generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 2: Smash the Burger Patties
Working in batches if necessary, place one portion of ground beef onto the hot skillet. Use the flat surface of a large spatula to press down firmly on each portion until they form patties about 5 inches in diameter. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes before carefully flipping them over to reveal a dark brown crust. Top each patty with a slice of cheese and continue cooking for another 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
While the burgers cook, toast your buns. If needed, heat another skillet over medium-high heat. Spread softened butter over both cut sides of your brioche buns—about one scant teaspoon per side. Place the buns butter-side down on the preheated skillet and lower the heat to medium. Toast until golden brown before removing from heat.
Step 4: Assemble Your Butter Burgers
Place the cheesy burger patties on top of the toasted bun bottoms. Add your favorite toppings—sliced onions and pickles are great choices! For an upgraded version, layer shredded lettuce along with sliced tomatoes and pickles before finishing off with ketchup and mustard. Enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Butter Burgers!
How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Serving Wisconsin Butter Burgers is all about enhancing their rich flavors and textures. These burgers are delicious on their own, but adding the right toppings and sides can elevate your meal to new heights.
Classic Toppings
- Sliced Onion: Adds crunch and a sharp flavor that complements the buttery taste.
- Dill Pickles: A tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the burger.
- Tomato Slices: Fresh tomatoes bring juiciness and a hint of sweetness.
Cheese Options
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic burger experience.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp flavor that pairs well with the butter.
- Swiss Cheese: Offers a nutty taste that enhances the overall profile.
Condiments
- Ketchup: A classic choice that adds sweetness.
- Mustard: Provides a tangy kick to balance the richness.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy texture that complements all ingredients.
Garnishes
- Shredded Lettuce: Adds freshness and crunch to each bite.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy addition that enriches the burger even more.
How to Perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Perfecting Wisconsin Butter Burgers is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for an unbeatable burger experience.
- Choose Quality Beef: Use freshly ground beef with at least 85% lean for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before cooking to achieve a nice sear on the patties.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently form your beef into portions without compacting it too much for better tenderness.
- Smash with Care: Use a spatula to smash down the patties firmly but gently, ensuring they don’t fall apart.
- Butter Those Buns Generously: Toasting buns with plenty of butter creates a crispy texture and adds rich flavor.
- Layer Strategically: Build your burger thoughtfully, starting with the patty, then cheese, followed by toppings for balanced bites.
Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Pairing side dishes with your Wisconsin Butter Burgers can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice, perfect for dipping in ketchup.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the burger.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the flavors while adding heartiness to your meal.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a summery touch, especially when brushed with butter.
- Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings provide an extra layer of flavor and texture alongside your burger.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side dish that’s sweet and savory, making it an excellent companion to burgers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Wisconsin Butter Burgers at home can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your burger.
- Using low-quality beef: Always opt for high-quality, fresh ground beef. This ensures a juicy and flavorful burger, just like the ones from Culver’s.
- Not smashing the patties enough: To achieve that crispy edge, press down on the beef firmly and evenly. A proper smash is key to getting the desired texture.
- Overcooking the burgers: Keep an eye on cooking times. Undercook slightly to keep them juicy, as they will continue to cook after removing from heat.
- Skipping the butter on buns: Buttering and toasting your buns adds essential flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for an authentic taste.
- Choosing the wrong toppings: Stick to classic toppings that complement the butter burger. Don’t overwhelm it with too many ingredients that mask its rich flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Wisconsin Butter Burgers in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen burgers are best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and reheat in intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wisconsin Butter Burgers special?
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are known for their juicy beef patties cooked with a unique smash technique and served on butter-toasted buns, creating a rich flavor profile.
Can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite toppings such as different cheeses, veggies, or sauces to make it your own.
How do I achieve crispy edges on my burgers?
Press down firmly while cooking to create a crust. The high heat helps develop those delicious crispy edges that mimic restaurant-style burgers.
Are Wisconsin Butter Burgers suitable for meal prep?
Yes! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for meal prep. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fresh ingredients and customizable toppings makes them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy crafting your ideal butter burger masterpiece!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a mouthwatering take on the classic burger, delivering an indulgent flavor experience perfect for any occasion. Made with juicy beef patties that are smashed to perfection and served on butter-toasted buns, these burgers embody the spirit of Wisconsin comfort food. In just 20 minutes, you can create a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with your favorite toppings and sides. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a cozy weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to impress family and friends alike. Get ready to savor every bite of this deliciously buttery masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the buns)
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: cheese slices, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, condiments
Instructions
- Preheat a cast iron griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Season with salt and pepper.
- Smash each portion onto the skillet to form patties about 5 inches in diameter; cook for 2 minutes before flipping.
- Add cheese on top and cook for an additional 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them on another skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble by placing patties on the bottom buns and adding your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
