Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger features a juicy, butter-toasted beef patty layered with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crispy pickles, and melted American cheese, all nestled in a soft, buttery bun for a flavorful and satisfying classic burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top griddle
- Spatula
- Butter spreader or brush
- Toaster or bun toaster
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Tongs
- Food-safe gloves
- Assembly tray
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 pickle slices
- 4 leaves green leaf lettuce
- 8 slices ripe tomato
Use an 80/20 blend of ground beef to ensure your patty remains juicy and flavorful after cooking. Softened unsalted butter is key for toasting the buns evenly without overpowering the burger's natural flavors. Fresh, crisp green leaf lettuce and ripe tomato slices add essential texture and brightness to balance the rich meat and melted American cheese. Season your patties simply with salt and black pepper to enhance the beef's natural taste without masking it. Your homemade Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger from the copycat menu will deliver the same classic, satisfying flavor as the original.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or flat-top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
- Season patties with salt and black pepper.
- Butter the cut sides of each hamburger bun using the butter spreader or brush.
- Toast the buttered buns on the toaster or griddle until golden and set aside.
- Place beef patties on the hot grill or griddle.
- Sear patties for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping with the spatula.
- Add 1 slice of American cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking; let melt.
- Prepare assembly tray with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickle slices.
- Place the bottom bun on the tray, add lettuce leaf, then 2 slices of tomato, then cheese-topped patty.
- Add 2 pickle slices per burger on top of the patty.
- Cover with the butter-toasted top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger from Culver's copycat menu showcases a juicy beef patty with melted American cheese and fresh toppings on a butter-toasted bun. If you can't find American cheese, mild cheddar or Colby-Jack make excellent substitutes that melt similarly. When fresh lettuce or tomatoes are unavailable, crisp iceberg or Roma tomatoes can be used without compromising flavor. You can substitute a grill with a flat-top griddle and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure a perfect sear. Butter-toasting the buns on a skillet or toaster oven provides flexibility and enhances the overall texture and taste.
Tips
Grilling the beef patties on a properly preheated grill or griddle ensures a juicy interior and a flavorful sear. Buttering the buns before toasting helps create a golden, crispy texture that complements the softness of the burger. Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef provides the perfect fat content for moisture and taste. Make sure to layer your burger ingredients in the recommended order to maintain structural integrity and enhance every bite of your Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger.
Nutritions
Your Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger offers a balanced combination of macronutrients with approximately 25 grams of protein from the 80/20 ground beef patty, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The butter-toasted bun and melted American cheese contribute fats, including saturated fats, which provide flavor and energy but should be consumed in moderation. Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles add minimal calories while supplying fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support immune health. This classic burger packs around 500-600 calories per serving, making it a flavorful yet substantial meal option.
Storage
Store your Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger components separately for best results. Keep the cooked beef patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and store fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles in separate containers to maintain crispness. Buns should be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and kept at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 2 days to preserve freshness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can switch ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner burger option that still offers rich flavor when cooked properly. Use Swiss or cheddar cheese instead of American cheese to add a sharper or creamier taste profile. Instead of buttering the buns, try toasting them with garlic oil for an aromatic twist. Grilling the veggies lightly before assembling adds a smoky depth that complements the juicy patty.
Allergies
Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and unsalted butter used for toasting the bun. The hamburger buns likely contain gluten, which can be problematic if you have a wheat allergy or celiac disease. Individuals with allergies to dairy or gluten should take caution when enjoying this classic burger.
Why this recipe?
The Culver's Deluxe ButterBurger menu is loved for its juicy, fresh beef patty, toasted buttered bun, and signature toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles that create a flavorful balance. Fans appreciate the consistent quality and mouthwatering taste that differentiates it from typical fast-food burgers. Your copycat recipe can capture this unique combination, offering a delicious and satisfying homemade alternative. Trying the Deluxe ButterBurger at home allows you to enjoy Culver's iconic flavors with personalized touches and fresh ingredients.