Wisconsin Butter Burger Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
• 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Seasoning for the meat)
• 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Cumin
• 0.25 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Steak Seasoning (Sprinkled on top of patties while cooking)
• 11 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Divided: 2 tbsp for onions, 8‑10 tbsp for buns, 1 tbsp for pan)
• 1 teaspoon Vegetable Oil (For searing the patties)
• 1 Medium Onion (Finely chopped for sautéed onions)
• 8 Cheese Slices (Thinly sliced; use 2 per burger (American or cheddar))
• 4 Burger Buns (Soft sandwich buns, split)

Instructions

1. Season the Ground Beef

   In a mixing bowl combine the ground beef with kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and half a teaspoon of steak seasoning. Mix gently until evenly distributed.

   Time: PT5M

2. Form and Chill Patties

   Divide the seasoned meat into four equal portions. Press each portion into a flat patty using a hamburger press (or your hands). Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold shape.

   Time: PT20M

3. Sauté the Onions

   Melt 2 Tbsp butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, 2 Tbsp water, and a pinch (¼ tsp) of salt. Cover and steam for 5 minutes, then uncover and cook 1‑2 minutes until just beginning to brown.

   Time: PT7M

   Temperature: Medium

4. Butter the Buns

   Spread 2 Tbsp softened butter on the cut side of each bun (total 8‑10 Tbsp for all buns). Set aside.

   Time: PT2M

5. Cook the Patties

   Add 1 tsp vegetable oil and 1 Tbsp butter to the skillet; heat until shimmering. Add the chilled patties. Cook 2‑3 minutes without moving, then flip. Sprinkle a little extra steak seasoning on the top side, then cook another 2‑3 minutes for medium‑well (adjust time for desired doneness).

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: Medium‑High

6. Melt the Cheese

   Place two slices of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking. Reduce heat or turn off the burner and let the cheese melt fully.

   Time: PT1M

7. Assemble the Burgers

   Place each cooked patty on the bottom half of a buttered bun. Top with the softened onions, then cover with the top bun. The heat from the patty will melt the butter on the bun.

   Time: PT2M

8. Quality Control & Serve

   Give each burger a quick press to ensure the bun stays together, then plate and enjoy.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

840

Protein

28g

Carbohydrates

11g

Fat

38g

Fiber

1g