Wisconsin has long been known for its love of dairy, especially butter, and that tradition spills over into its burger culture. The Wisconsin butter burger is a regional classic, rich, juicy, and unapologetically indulgent. Unlike typical burgers that rely on toppings or sauces, the magic of this recipe lies in the butter itself, which is used not only for basting but also for finishing. The result is a burger that’s dripping with flavor, incredibly juicy, and full of Midwest charm.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for buns)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft bakery-style)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Slices of Wisconsin cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions:
- Prepare the onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onions and cook slowly until golden and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside. These sweet onions are a classic topping for butter burgers. - Form the patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently shape them into patties. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up while cooking. Season generously with salt and black pepper. - Cook and baste with butter:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt until foamy. Place the patties in the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on the first side. Flip the burgers and immediately place a small pat of butter on top of each patty. As the patties cook, the butter melts over the meat, basting it in rich flavor. If using cheese, add a slice during the last minute of cooking and cover briefly to melt. - Toast the buns:
Split the buns and butter the cut sides generously. Toast them on the skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp. - Assemble the burgers:
Place the burger patties on the bottom buns, top with caramelized onions, and cover with the top bun. For an extra Wisconsin touch, some people add another swipe of butter on the inside of the top bun before serving.
Serving:
Serve these butter-basted burgers hot, with a side of crispy fries or a dill pickle. The combination of juicy beef, rich butter, and soft buns makes every bite decadent.