If you’ve never had a Wisconsin Butter Burger, you’re in for a treat. This juicy, flavorful burger is a Midwest classic, and it’s known for its rich buttery goodness. The butter burger originated in Wisconsin, and it’s exactly what it sounds like—a delicious beef patty topped with butter, giving it an irresistible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The butter soaks into the bun, adding an extra layer of indulgence to each bite. Whether you’re grilling these outside or making them on the stovetop, these butter burgers are bound to become a favorite in your home.
Wisconsin Butter Burger
When I first tried a butter burger in Wisconsin, I was hooked. The buttery richness combined with a perfectly seared beef patty is unforgettable. What makes this burger so special is that the butter is not just an afterthought—it’s an integral part of the experience. You can top your burger with classic cheese and onions, but the butter is the real star here. It melts into the meat and the bun, creating a burger that’s both savory and luxurious.
This recipe is my go-to when I want to make something truly indulgent but still easy. You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients—just high-quality beef, butter, and simple seasonings. The key is using cold butter, which melts slowly and seeps into the bun and patty as you bite into it.
Why You’ll Love This Wisconsin Butter Burger Recipe
- Rich and Juicy: The butter adds incredible moisture and richness to the burger, making it juicy and full of flavor.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need much—just good quality ground beef, butter, and your favorite toppings.
- A Midwest Classic: This is the burger Wisconsin is famous for, and after one bite, you’ll understand why.
- Perfect for Grilling or Stovetop: You can make this burger outdoors on the grill or right in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients for Wisconsin Butter Burger
- Ground Beef – I like to use ground beef with at least 80% lean meat for this recipe. The fat content helps keep the burger juicy and flavorful.
- Butter – Cold butter is essential for this recipe. It melts slowly on top of the burger, soaking into the bun and adding a rich, buttery flavor.
- Buns – Soft hamburger buns work best because they soak up the butter without becoming too soggy.
- Cheese – While optional, Wisconsin cheddar is a classic choice to pair with this butter burger. Its sharp flavor complements the richness of the butter.
- Onions – Some like to add grilled or raw onions for extra flavor and texture, though this is optional.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Wisconsin Butter Burger
Here’s how to make this iconic burger at home:
- Prepare the Patties: Start by dividing your ground beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the meat as this can make the burger tough.
- Tip: Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps the burger cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up in the middle.
- Season the Patties: Season each patty generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder if you like extra flavor.
- Heat the Skillet or Grill: If you’re cooking on the stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small pat of butter to the skillet and let it melt. If you’re grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook the Patties: Place the patties in the hot skillet or on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them. This helps create a nice crust.
- Flip and Add Cheese (Optional): Flip the patties and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on top of each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan or grill to melt the cheese.
- Prepare the Butter: While the burgers are cooking, slice cold butter into ¼-inch thick pats. You’ll need one pat of butter for each burger. Keep them cold until you’re ready to serve so they don’t melt too early.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the inside of the hamburger buns and toast them in the skillet or on the grill until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on a toasted bun and immediately top it with a slice of cold butter. The heat from the burger will slowly melt the butter, allowing it to soak into the meat and bun.
- Add Toppings: If desired, top your butter burger with grilled onions, lettuce, or pickles. Personally, I love adding caramelized onions for a sweet contrast to the savory butter.
- Serve: Serve the burgers with your favorite sides, such as French fries or a simple salad. Be sure to serve them hot so the butter is still melting into the bun.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Variation: For a different twist, you can make a “stuffed” butter burger by placing a pat of butter inside the patty before cooking. The butter will melt inside the burger as it cooks, making the inside extra juicy.
- How to Store: Butter burgers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store cooked patties in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter.
- How to Serve: Butter burgers are traditionally served with a cold beer or soda, and a side of fries or coleslaw. You can also add a side of pickles for extra crunch.
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