Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a delightful treat that showcases the best of Midwestern comfort food. These juicy burgers, topped with melted cheese and served on a butter-toasted bun, are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. The unique smash-cooking technique gives these burgers their signature crispy edges and rich flavor, making them a must-try recipe for burger lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Wisconsin Butter Burgers have several standout qualities that make them special.
- Unmatched Flavor: The combination of fresh beef and butter creates a rich taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these burgers are perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your burger with a variety of toppings to suit your taste—add anything from lettuce to pickles!
- Crispy Texture: The smash-cooking method ensures perfectly seared patties with deliciously crispy edges.
- Midwest Comfort Food: Experience the charm of Wisconsin cuisine right in your kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl (optional)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron griddle: Provides excellent heat retention and helps achieve that perfect sear on the burgers.
- Spatula: Essential for smashing the patties down evenly 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 skillet over medium-high heat.
- After about 2 minutes of preheating, brush the cooking surface lightly with oil.
- Meanwhile, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. There’s no need to form them into patties; just keep them as loose portions.
- Season each portion liberally with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 2: Smash the Patties
Working in batches if necessary, place the portioned ground beef onto the hot skillet.
- Position the flat surface of a spatula over each portion of beef.
- Firmly press down to smash the beef into patties that are about 5 inches in diameter (slightly larger than your buns).
- Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until you see a dark brown crust form.
- Carefully flip each burger to reveal that beautifully cooked side. Top with a slice of cheese and continue cooking for an additional 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
While the burgers finish cooking, it’s time to toast your buns.
- If needed, heat another skillet over medium-high heat.
- Spread softened butter over both cut sides of each bun—about one scant teaspoon per side.
- Place the buns butter-side down on the preheated skillet. Lower the heat to medium and toast until golden brown. Remove from skillet once done.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
Place cheese-covered burger patties on toasted bun bottoms.
- Top with your favorite fixings like shredded lettuce, sliced onions & pickles.
- For extra flavor, add ketchup and mustard as desired. Enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Butter Burgers!
How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Serving Wisconsin Butter Burgers is all about enhancing their rich flavors with your favorite toppings and sides. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your burger experience.
Classic Toppings
- Lettuce: Fresh shredded iceberg lettuce adds a nice crunch.
- Tomato: Juicy slices of tomato bring acidity and freshness.
- Onion: Sliced onions, whether raw or grilled, add a savory bite.
- Pickles: Dill pickles offer a tangy contrast to the buttery burger.
Sauces
- Ketchup: A classic choice that complements the beef’s richness.
- Mustard: Adds a zesty kick that balances the burger’s flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy and smooth, mayonnaise enhances the overall texture.
Cheese Options
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that classic cheese pull.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a deeper flavor profile.
- Swiss Cheese: Mild and nutty, Swiss cheese melts nicely for added creaminess.
How to Perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers
To create the ultimate Wisconsin Butter Burgers, focus on technique and quality ingredients. Here are some essential tips to ensure your burgers turn out perfectly every time.
- Use fresh beef: Start with high-quality, fresh ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Smash them right: Press down firmly on the patties for crispy edges and maximum surface area for searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; this prevents steaming and helps achieve that perfect crust.
- Butter the buns generously: A good amount of butter on your buns ensures they toast up golden brown and delicious.
- Let them rest briefly: After cooking, allow your burgers to rest for a minute or two before serving. This keeps them juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Pairing side dishes with your Wisconsin Butter Burgers can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy golden fries are a classic side that perfectly complements any burger.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor contrast to the rich butter burger.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the burger.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and freshness to your meal.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a flavorful complement to your butter burger experience.
- Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings add an extra layer of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Wisconsin Butter Burgers, it’s easy to overlook a few key aspects that can make or break the dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using Frozen Beef: Fresh beef is essential for achieving that juicy flavor. Always opt for fresh, never frozen, ground beef for the best results.
- Not Preheating the Skillet: A hot skillet is crucial for searing. Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated adequately before adding the beef to get that perfect crust.
- Overcooking the Burgers: Cooking too long can dry out your burgers. Stick to the recommended cook times for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your beef! A generous sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper enhances flavor significantly.
- Neglecting the Buns: Toasted buns add texture and richness. Always butter and toast your buns for that authentic Wisconsin butter burger experience.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Wisconsin Butter Burgers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat burgers on a baking sheet until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wisconsin Butter Burgers unique?
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are known for their use of fresh beef and toasted buttered buns, creating a deliciously rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
Can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
Absolutely! You can add any toppings you love such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, or even different cheeses.
How do I achieve a perfect sear on my burgers?
To get that ideal sear, ensure your skillet is very hot before placing the beef. Press down firmly when smashing for maximum contact with the pan.
Are Wisconsin Butter Burgers suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare patties in advance and freeze them. Just follow proper freezing instructions and thaw before cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Wisconsin Butter Burgers?
Classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or potato salad complement these burgers perfectly. Feel free to get creative!
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with flavor and nostalgia. This recipe offers versatility as you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings. Try making these butter burgers at home today—you’ll love how simple yet delicious they are!
Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Wisconsin Butter Burgers, a delightful homage to Midwestern comfort food. These juicy burgers are crafted using a unique smash-cooking technique that creates irresistibly crispy edges, topped with melted cheese and served on buttery toasted buns. Perfect for any occasion—be it a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner—this recipe is sure to become a favorite among burger lovers. With just 20 minutes needed for preparation, you can easily whip up these gourmet burgers at home and customize them with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable meal experience.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- Neutral vegetable oil
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese or cheese of choice
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper
- Assorted toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, onion, pickles, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat; brush lightly with oil.
- Divide ground beef into four loose portions; season with salt and pepper.
- Place beef in the skillet and smash each portion down to form patties. Cook for about 2 minutes until browned.
- Flip the patties, add cheese on top, and cook for another 1.5–2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, toast buns in another skillet with butter spread on the cut sides until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers by placing patties on buns and topping with desired fixings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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