This copycat Culver’s ButterBurger recipe brings the classic Midwestern favorite to your own kitchen. Known for its rich, juicy flavor and signature buttered bun, this burger starts with a simple ground beef patty seasoned and cooked on a skillet, then finished with melted cheddar cheese and crisp dill pickles. The key to its signature taste is the generous spread of salted butter on the toasted bun, which adds a rich, toasty flavor to every bite. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for recreating your favorite drive-thru experience at home.
Why this recipe works
- Buttered buns for flavor: Spreading butter directly on the bun before toasting gives the burger its signature rich taste.
- Simple seasoning: Salt and pepper allow the quality of the beef to shine through without overwhelming it.
- Melted cheddar finish: A slice of cheddar cheese brings creamy sharpness that pairs well with the savory patty.
- Fast and easy to make: With minimal ingredients and no special tools needed, this recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.


Serving suggestions
- Pair with crispy fries: Serve alongside crinkle-cut fries or onion rings for a classic burger meal.
- Add your favorite toppings: Lettuce, tomato, ketchup, or grilled onions can easily be added to customize each burger.
- Serve with cold drinks: A glass of root beer, iced tea, or a malt-style milkshake complements the savory burger flavors.
- Make it a meal: Round out your plate with coleslaw or a pickle spear for a simple diner-style combo.
Culver’s butterburger recipe
This copycat Culver’s ButterBurger brings the classic Midwestern favorite to your own kitchen.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 tablespoons salted butter
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1lb ground beef
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- dill pickle slices
Instructions
- Form the ground beef into 4 patties. Season on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Spread 2 tablespoons of butter onto each bun top.
- Heat a large skillet to medium-high heat. Add the beef patties and cook for about 3 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Top each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the burgers the fully cooked (the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F).
- Transfer the patties to the bun bottoms. Top with pickles and the buttered bun tops.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 602
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1245.1 mg
- Fat: 37.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 27.4 g
- Protein: 31.5 g
- Cholesterol: 157.1 mg
