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.