Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are a delicious tribute to the heart of American comfort food. This recipe captures the essence of a classic burger, featuring high-quality beef and butter-toasted buns that elevate it to new heights. Perfect for summer BBQs or a cozy family dinner, these burgers offer rich flavors and crispy edges that everyone will love. You’ll enjoy making these savory delights at home in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Dinner is ready in 20 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and quality beef creates an indulgent taste that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make each burger unique to your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or game day gatherings.
- Fun to Make: The smash-burger technique adds a fun element to the cooking process.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools help ensure your burgers come out delicious every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet
- large spatula
- small bowl for seasoning
- butter knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet: Provides even heat distribution, essential for achieving that perfect sear on the burgers.
- Large spatula: Crucial for smashing the burger patties down evenly, ensuring crispy edges and rich flavor.
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 the 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 with a light coating of oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
Meanwhile, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions—there’s no need to roll them into balls. Season each portion liberally with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 3: Smash and Cook the Patties
Working in batches if necessary:
* Place each portion on the hot griddle/skillet.
* Use a large spatula to firmly press down on each portion until they form patties about 5 inches in diameter.
* Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes before flipping them over. The cooked side should have a beautiful dark brown crust.
* Top each patty with a slice of cheese and cook for another 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the burgers cook:
* If needed, heat another skillet over medium-high heat.
* Spread softened butter on both cut sides of the brioche buns—about 1 scant teaspoon per side.
* Place buns butter-side down in the preheated skillet and lower heat to medium until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble Your Butter Burgers
Place the cheesy burger patties on the bottom halves of toasted brioche buns.
* Top with your favorite fixings like shredded lettuce, sliced onions, tomatoes, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.
Enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Butter Burgers!
How to Serve Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Serving Wisconsin Butter Burgers is all about enhancing the rich, buttery flavors while adding your favorite toppings. Here are some delightful ways to serve these scrumptious burgers that will impress your family and friends.
Classic Toppings
- Lettuce: Shredded iceberg lettuce adds a crisp texture that complements the juicy burger.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, sliced tomatoes provide a juicy burst of flavor in each bite.
- Onions: Sliced red or white onions add a sharpness that balances the richness of the butter burger.
- Pickles: Dill pickles give a tangy crunch that enhances the overall taste.
Sauces and Condiments
- Ketchup: A classic choice that adds sweetness and moisture.
- Mustard: Adds a zesty kick to your burger.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, it enhances the burger’s flavor without overpowering it.
Cheese Options
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creaminess for that classic taste.
- Cheddar Cheese: A sharper option that brings more depth to the butter burger’s flavor.
Additional Flavor Boosters
- Bacon: Crispy bacon strips can elevate your butter burger with added smokiness.
- Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado gives creaminess and a fresh touch.
How to Perfect Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Perfecting Wisconsin Butter Burgers at home is easier than you think. Follow these tips for an unforgettable experience.
- Choose Quality Beef: Start with fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Smash Properly: Use a spatula to firmly smash the patties; this creates crispy edges and enhances flavor through caramelization.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook just until medium-rare to maintain juiciness; use an instant-read thermometer if needed.
- Toast Buns Well: A well-buttered, toasted bun adds richness and holds up better against juicy toppings.
Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Butter Burgers
Pairing your Wisconsin Butter Burgers with delicious sides can make for a complete meal. Here are some great side dishes to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic pairing; try seasoning them with garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the burger perfectly.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and complements grilled meats well.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn gives a sweet, smoky addition that’s perfect for summer barbecues.
- Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings provide a fun, crunchy contrast to the soft butter burger.
- Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add heartiness and pair wonderfully with burgers at cookouts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go awry if you make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for when making Wisconsin Butter Burgers.
- Using low-quality beef: Always opt for fresh, high-quality beef for the juiciest burgers. Avoid pre-packaged ground beef that may be lower in quality.
- Not smashing enough: Failing to smash the patty adequately can lead to uneven cooking. Use a heavy spatula to press down firmly for that perfect sear.
- Overcooking the burgers: Keep an eye on your cooking time. Overcooked burgers will lose their juiciness and flavor, so aim for a medium doneness.
- Skipping the butter on buns: To achieve that signature Wisconsin Butter Burger taste, don’t skip buttering your buns before toasting. It adds essential flavor and texture.
- Neglecting toppings: While the burger itself is crucial, toppings make it special. Experiment with different combinations to elevate your butter burger experience.
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 aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap burgers in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the burgers for 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wisconsin Butter Burgers unique?
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are known for their rich flavor from freshly cooked beef and buttery toasted buns, creating a delightful contrast.
Can I use different types of cheese on my butter burger?
Absolutely! While American cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese for added flavor.
How can I customize my Wisconsin Butter Burger?
You can add various toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or different sauces. Make it your own!
Are Wisconsin Butter Burgers healthy?
While delicious, they are indulgent. Moderation is key, but using leaner beef and fresh toppings can make them healthier options.
Can I grill these burgers instead of using a skillet?
Yes! Grilling gives them a smoky flavor. Just ensure your grill is hot before adding the patties.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin Butter Burgers bring comfort food right to your kitchen with their rich flavors and crispy texture. This recipe offers room for customization with various toppings and cheeses. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a casual dinner at home, these burgers are sure to please everyone at your table!
Wisconsin Butter Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Wisconsin Butter Burgers are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy beef patties with buttery toasted buns for an unforgettable meal. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to whip up these mouthwatering burgers in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for summer BBQs or cozy family dinners. The secret lies in the smash-burger technique, which creates crispy edges and rich flavors that everyone will love. Customize your burger with a variety of toppings and enjoy the delightful experience of making these savory delights at home.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of choice)
- Neutral oil (for cooking)
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat a cast iron griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
- Divide ground beef into four portions, season with salt and pepper.
- Place portions on the hot griddle and smash down to form patties. Cook for 2 minutes until browned, flip, add cheese, and cook for another 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Toast buttered buns on another skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers with patties on the bottom bun and add favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 491
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 91mg
