Homestyle Whataburger Jr. Copycat
Inspired by the beloved Texas-based institution, the Whataburger Jr. is a deliciously satisfying burger that proves great flavor comes in a modest size. This copycat recipe brings the iconic Whataburger experience to your home kitchen, focusing on juicy beef, a toasted bun, and classic toppings that deliver both nostalgia and mouthwatering satisfaction. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with all-American flair.
Ingredients
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef look for freshly ground, not frozen, for best texture
- 4 pieces potato hamburger buns soft, golden buns preferred; toasted before serving
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 8 slices dill pickle chips classic style, not bread-and-butter
- 4 slices tomato fresh, ripe tomatoes, about 1/4” thick each
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce crisp and freshly shredded for texture
- ½ small yellow onion thinly sliced into rings
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (4 oz each), gently form into patties about 4 inches wide to match the bun size. Do not overwork the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Toast the buns, cut side down, for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Set aside.
- Place the patties on the hot skillet. Smash slightly with a spatula for even contact. Cook for 2.5–3 minutes per side or until a dark golden crust forms and they are cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C).
- While the patties finish, spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise and 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- To each bun, add 2 pickle slices, tomato slice, shredded lettuce, and a few raw onion rings. Place the hot beef patty on top, then close with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, melt a slice of American cheese on each patty during the final 30 seconds of cooking.
- Make it Spicy: Add a few pickled jalapeño slices beneath the patty.
- Brioche buns make a luxe alternative if potato buns aren’t available.
Nutrition
Calories: 406kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 21gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 86mgSodium: 828mgPotassium: 482mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 540IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 3mg
Did you give this recipe a whirl?We're all ears to hear about your results!