Wisconsin Badger Burger
Sink your teeth into the bold, cheesy indulgence of the Wisconsin Badger Burger—a mouthwatering tribute to the flavors of America’s Dairyland. This gourmet burger starts with juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties, seared to perfection and crowned with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy, savory bacon. A rich, homemade beer cheese sauce featuring Wisconsin lager and creamy cheddar takes this burger to the next level, complemented by sweet caramelized onions, peppery arugula, and tangy pickles. All of this decadence is nestled in a buttery toasted brioche bun, creating the ultimate combination of savory, tangy, and creamy in every bite. Perfect for game day or a burger night upgrade, this recipe will delight cheese lovers, burger enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a truly unforgettable meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (slices)
- 4 slices bacon (cooked until crispy)
- 4 units brioche burger buns
- 2 tbsp butter (softened)
- 0.25 cup beer (preferably Wisconsin lager)
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup arugula
- 8 slices pickle slices
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—do not overmix.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking. Set aside.
Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and the thinly sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and cook the burger patties in the same skillet (or on a preheated grill) for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or longer as desired. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt. Remove patties and set aside to rest.
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the beer, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside. This is your beer cheese sauce.
Butter the inside of each brioche bun and toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Assemble the burgers: Place the bottom half of a toasted brioche bun on a plate. Add a handful of arugula, followed by a burger patty with melted cheddar cheese.
Top the patty with 1 slice of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, 2 pickle slices, and a generous drizzle of the beer cheese sauce.
Finish with the top half of the brioche bun. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to assemble the other burgers.
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, like sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3510 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 249.1 g | 319% | |
| Saturated Fat | 121.4 g | 607% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 774 mg | 258% | |
| Sodium | 6909 mg | 300% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 150.0 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.6 g | ||
| Protein | 161.3 g | 323% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.8 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 1618 mg | 124% | |
| Iron | 20.3 mg | 113% | |
| Potassium | 2192 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
