Wisconsin Butter Basted Burgers: A Juicy, Flavor-Packed Classic

Name: Wisconsin Butter Basted Burgers: A Juicy, Flavor-Packed Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 hamburger buns; Classic coleslaw; Grilled corn on the cob; Potato salad; A cold beer or lemonade

April 23, 2025

Recipes

Growing up in Wisconsin, summer meant one thing: backyard barbecues filled with laughter, family, and the irresistible aroma of burgers sizzling on the grill. My fondest memories are of my dad, apron-clad, flipping burgers while my siblings and I played tag in the yard. The secret to his mouthwatering burgers? A generous baste of butter that made each bite a juicy explosion of flavor. Today, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe for Wisconsin Butter Basted Burgers, a dish that brings me back to those sun-soaked afternoons.

What Makes It Special

Wisconsin Butter Basted Burgers are not just any burgers; they are a celebration of flavor and tradition. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Juiciness: The butter baste locks in moisture, ensuring each burger is succulent and tender.
Flavor Explosion: The rich, creamy taste of butter enhances the beef, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a gourmet burger at home.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and sides to make it your own!

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
4 burger buns
Your choice of toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.)

Let’s Get Cooking

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
While the grill heats up, form the ground beef into four equal patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and pepper.
Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
Flip the burgers and immediately add a tablespoon of butter on top of each patty. Baste the burgers with the melted butter using a spoon.
Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached.
Remove the burgers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

My Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding minced garlic or herbs to the butter before basting.
Experiment with different cheeses; a slice of sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese can elevate your burger.

What to Serve With It

Classic coleslaw
Grilled corn on the cob
Potato salad
A cold beer or lemonade

FAQs

Q: Can I use leaner ground beef?

A: While you can use leaner beef, it may result in a drier burger. The 80/20 blend is recommended for optimal juiciness.

The Heart of the Dish

Every time I make these Wisconsin Butter Basted Burgers, I’m reminded of those carefree summer days spent with family. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a connection to my roots and a way to create new memories with loved ones. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients, add your favorite toppings, and share your experiences. Let’s keep the tradition alive, one delicious burger at a time!