Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a deliciously rich twist on the classic burger, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these burgers deliver incredible flavor and satisfaction. The combination of fresh beef and butter-toasted buns makes each bite unforgettable. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, so you can whip them up in just 20 minutes!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Step 1: Preheat Your Skillet
- Step 2: Smash the Patties
- Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Step 4: Assemble Your Butter Burgers
- How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Classic Toppings
- Sauces and Condiments
- Cheese Options
- Creative Additions
- 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 unique?
- Can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
- What is the best way to serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers?
- How do I know when my burgers are done?
- How can I ensure my burgers don’t fall apart?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The butter-toasted buns combined with juicy beef create an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these Wisconsin Butter Burgers on the table in no time.
- Customizable Toppings: Choose your favorite toppings to make each burger unique and tailored to your family’s tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, these burgers fit right in.
- Easy Cooking Method: The smash-burger technique used here ensures perfectly crispy edges and a delightful crust.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help you achieve that delicious sear and buttery finish!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Large spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet: Provides even heat distribution for that perfect sear on your burger patties.
- Large spatula: Essential for smashing the beef into patties and flipping them without breaking apart.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 4 brioche buns or hamburger buns of choice
- 4 slices American cheese or cheese of choice
- For serving, as desired: shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced tomato, sliced onion, sliced dill pickles, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, etc.
How to Make Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Step 1: Preheat Your Skillet
Preheat a cast iron griddle or large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. After about 2 minutes of preheating:
* Brush the cooking surface lightly with oil.
* Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
Step 2: Smash the Patties
Once the skillet is hot:
1. Season each portion liberally with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
2. Place the portioned ground beef on the skillet.
3. Using a large spatula, firmly press down to smash the beef into patties about 5 inches in diameter.
4. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until browned.
5. Carefully flip each patty to reveal a dark brown crust. Top with a slice of cheese and continue cooking for another 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
While the burgers are cooking:
1. If needed, heat another skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Spread softened butter over both cut sides of the brioche buns (about 1 scant teaspoon per side).
3. Place buns butter-side down on the preheated skillet.
4. Lower heat to medium and toast until golden brown.
Step 4: Assemble Your Butter Burgers
Once cooked:
1. Place cheese-topped burger patties on toasted brioche bun bottoms.
2. Add your favorite toppings!
* For the works, layer sliced onions & pickles with ketchup & mustard.
* For a deluxe version, add shredded lettuce along with tomatoes & pickles topped with ketchup & mustard.
Enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Butter Burgers!
How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Serving Wisconsin Butter Burgers is all about enhancing their deliciousness with the right toppings and sides. These burgers are versatile and can be customized to suit any palate, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Classic Toppings
- Lettuce – Shredded iceberg lettuce adds a refreshing crunch.
- Tomato – Sliced tomatoes provide juiciness and a pop of color.
- Onion – Raw or grilled onions add a savory flavor that complements the burger.
- Pickles – Dill pickles add tanginess that balances the richness of the butter burger.
Sauces and Condiments
- Ketchup – A classic choice that adds sweetness to each bite.
- Mustard – Adds a zesty kick that enhances the flavors of the beef.
- Mayonnaise – Creamy mayo can help balance out the richness of the buttery bun.
Cheese Options
- American Cheese – Melts beautifully and offers a creamy texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Adds a sharp flavor that pairs well with beef.
Creative Additions
- Avocado – Sliced avocado provides creaminess and healthy fats.
- Fried Egg – A fried egg on top can turn your burger into a breakfast delight.
How to Perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers
To achieve the ultimate Wisconsin Butter Burger experience, follow these tips for perfecting your cooking technique and presentation.
- Choose Quality Beef – Use fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Preheat Your Skillet – Ensure your skillet is hot before cooking to achieve that crispy crust.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat – Simply portion the beef without forming patties; this helps maintain tenderness.
- Smash Efficiently – Use a spatula to press down firmly but quickly for even cooking.
- Toast Buns Properly – Make sure both sides of your buns are evenly toasted with butter for added richness.
- Layer Flavors Thoughtfully – Stack toppings in a way that balances flavors without overpowering the burger itself.
Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Pairing sides with your Wisconsin Butter Burgers can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement these flavorful burgers perfectly.
- French Fries – Crispy fries are always a classic side; consider seasoning them with garlic or herbs.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance out the rich flavors of the burger.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with barbecue-style meals.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet, smoky corn is an excellent summer side dish that’s easy to prep on the grill.
- Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans offer a hearty side that complements any barbecue setting.
- Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings add an extra layer of crunch and flavor alongside your burger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Wisconsin Butter Burgers, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your beef properly can lead to bland burgers. Always use kosher salt and ground black pepper generously.
- Not using high-quality beef: Low-quality ground beef will not give you that rich flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality beef, preferably 85% lean.
- Overcooking the burgers: Cooking the burgers too long can make them dry. Aim for a sear on each side while keeping them juicy in the middle.
- Ignoring the bun quality: Use fresh and soft brioche or hamburger buns. A stale or low-quality bun can ruin your butter burger experience.
- Forgetting the butter toast: Neglecting to butter-toast your buns will miss out on that signature flavor. Always toast with a good amount of softened butter for a crispy finish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Wisconsin Butter Burgers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the burgers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30 seconds – 1 minute, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each burger for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wisconsin Butter Burgers unique?
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are unique because they feature a buttery toasted bun that enhances their flavor and texture, along with fresh ground beef cooked to perfection.
Can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
Absolutely! You can add any toppings you like, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, or even different types of cheese to suit your taste.
What is the best way to serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers?
Serve them immediately after cooking on warm toasted buns with your favorite toppings like mustard and ketchup for classic flavors.
How do I know when my burgers are done?
The burgers should have a nice dark brown crust on one side after searing and should be slightly firm but still juicy when flipped.
How can I ensure my burgers don’t fall apart?
Handle the meat gently and avoid overworking it when forming patties. Keeping them cold before cooking also helps maintain their structure.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are not just delicious; they’re also customizable to fit any preferences. Whether you prefer classic toppings or something more adventurous, this recipe allows you to create a mouthwatering meal in no time. Give it a try and enjoy these tasty burgers at home!
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Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a mouthwatering twist on the classic burger, featuring juicy beef patties and butter-toasted brioche buns that create an explosion of flavor in every bite. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, these burgers can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy families. With customizable toppings and a simple cooking method, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy a classic cheeseburger or want to get creative with additional toppings, Wisconsin Butter Burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper
- Slices of American cheese (or cheese of choice)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and season with salt and pepper.
- Smash each portion into patties using a spatula; cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until browned.
- Flip patties, add cheese on top, and cook for another 90 seconds.
- While burgers cook, butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them in another skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers by placing patties on toasted buns and adding desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 770mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
