Name: Bison Burgers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground bison or beef; 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup avocado oil mayo; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 2 teaspoons dijon mustard; 1/8 teaspoon sea salt; 8-10 slices cooked bacon; 1 large yellow onion; 8 ounces brie cheese; 6 buns

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Bison burgers have a unique, rich flavor that truly sets them apart from traditional beef options. The first time I had a bison burger was at a quaint little diner tucked away in the mountains. I remember savoring each bite, enjoying the subtle sweetness and tenderness that made my taste buds dance with joy. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that fantastic experience at home, and I’m excited to share the best bison burger recipe with you. Perfect for grilling season or any casual get-together, these burgers are sure to become a crowd-favorite.

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What makes this bison burger recipe so amazing? Not only is it easy to throw together, but it also boasts an irresistible combination of flavors, from the smoky richness of bacon to the creamy melt of brie cheese. Each bite captures a gourmet feel, making it an impressive option for BBQs or cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a leaner protein without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to enjoy a burger that will spoil your taste buds and spark joy in your kitchen!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Bison Burgers
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Bison Burgers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep, these burgers come together quickly for a hassle-free meal.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bison meat, smoky bacon, and creamy brie creates a taste extravaganza.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Topped with grilled onions and served with a delightful aioli, these burgers look as fantastic as they taste.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a summer BBQ, a Sunday family dinner, or even a weeknight treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Bison is a lean meat, making it a healthier alternative to beef while still packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 pounds ground bison or beef: For the best results, use high-quality ground bison. If unavailable, lean ground beef can be a good substitute.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a savory depth and enhances the umami flavor of the meat.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a subtle kick; freshly ground pepper is best for maximum flavor.
1 cup avocado oil mayo: This makes for a creamy, rich aioli that balances the burger’s richness.
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Adds a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Provides a nice tang and brings all the flavors together.
1/8 teaspoon sea salt: For the aioli; this will amplify the taste of its ingredients.
8-10 slices cooked bacon: Adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor, elevating the whole burger experience.
1 large yellow onion: Sweet and flavor-packed; grilled to perfection, it becomes a delightful topping.
8 ounces brie cheese: This provides a creamy, luxurious topping that melts beautifully over the bison patties.
6 buns: Use your favorite burger buns, whether classic or whole grain, to swipe up all the flavors.

How to Make Bison Burgers

Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your BBQ grill to high heat. If using a smoker, get it set up and ready. (See notes below for pellet grill/smoker instructions.)
Prepare the Meat: In a medium bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground bison with 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Divide the meat into six equal patties, weighing about 5.5 ounces each. Set them aside.
Make the Aioli: In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil mayo, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon sea salt. Stir well to combine, then cover and refrigerate the aioli until you’re ready to assemble the burgers.
Cook the Bacon: If your bacon isn’t already cooked, go ahead and do that now. The crispy bacon will be a fantastic addition to your burgers.
Prepare the Onion: Peel and slice the yellow onion into 1/4-inch rings. If you like, cook the onions in the bacon drippings for added flavor, or use oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté until both sides are nicely browned and tender, around 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium to prevent them from burning.
Slice the Brie: While the onions are cooking, slice the brie cheese into 1/2-inch planks. This will help it melt evenly.
Grill the Burgers: Place the burger patties on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 7-8 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 150-160°F.
Melt the Cheese: Once the burgers are nearly done, lay a couple of slices of brie cheese on each patty. Move the burgers to an indirect heat source to let the cheese melt, being careful not to let it sit too long, or you’ll lose most of it to the grill.
Assemble the Burgers: Take your buns and smear a generous amount of aioli on both sides (toasted buns are a fantastic choice!). Place the burger patty on the bottom bun, add some sautéed onions, and stack on a slice or two of crispy bacon. Top with the other half of the bun, and you’re ready to bite into something extraordinary.

Storing & Reheating

After enjoying your delicious bison burgers, leftover patties can be stored at room temperature for around two hours. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. If you wish to freeze the patties, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you reheat, pop them back on the grill or skillet until heated through, roughly 5-7 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but a quick toast of the buns will help refresh that grilled goodness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To ensure juicy burgers, avoid over-mixing the meat when forming patties. Handle them as little as possible.
If you can, let the patties sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly.
Always make a small indentation in the center of each patty; it helps keep the burgers from puffing up while cooking.
If you want to spice things up, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the ground meat.
Make extra aioli for dipping some fresh veggies or fries; it’s also great on sandwiches!

Bison burgers offer a fantastic alternative for those looking for something beyond the regular beef patty. Their unique flavor will impress your friends and family, and trust me, they’ll be begging for more! Experiment with different toppings, too—avocado slices, fresh herbs, or a sunny-side-up egg would all make a delicious addition.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese on my bison burgers?

Absolutely! While brie brings a luxurious creaminess, you can switch it up with cheddar, blue cheese, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Choose based on your personal preference!

How do I know when my bison burgers are done?

The best way to ensure your burgers are cooked perfectly is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 150-160°F. The patties should have a firm texture without being dry.

Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the burger patties a day in advance and store them in the fridge. This not only saves you time on grilling day but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Are bison burgers healthier than beef burgers?

Yes, bison is typically leaner than beef, making it a healthier option with fewer calories and less fat while still being rich in protein. It’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful burger with less guilt.

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