Juicy Bison Burger Recipe: A Lean and Flavorful Twist

Before diving into the Bison Burger Recipe, let us talk about what makes bison such a great option:

1. Leaner than beef: Bison contains less fat and fewer calories, making it ideal for those watching their intake without sacrificing taste.
2. High in protein: A 4-ounce serving of bison provides over 20 grams of protein.
3. Rich in nutrients: Bison is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 source.
4. Sustainable: Bison are raised on grass and roam freely, making their meat more environmentally friendly than some commercially produced meats.

The key to a great bison burger is managing its lower fat content. Because it is leaner, it cooks faster and can dry out if you are not careful. However, with the right approach, you will end up with a burger that's just as juicy and satisfying as any classic beef patty.

Ingredients for Bison Burgers (Serves 4)

For Patty:

• 1½ lbs ground bison (preferably 85% lean, 15% fat)

1. 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for added moisture)
2. 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
5. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
6. ½ teaspoon onion powder

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Juiciness:

• 1 egg (helps bind and retain moisture)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion or shallot
• 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

For the Burger:

• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices of let's cheese (cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, or Swiss)
• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Pickles
• Ketchup, mustard, or your favorite burger sauce.

Equipment Needed:

• Grill or cast-iron skillet
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl

1. Prepare the Bison Patty Mixture

• Start by gently mixing the ground bison in a bowl with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the patties tough.
• If you are concerned about moisture, mix in the optional egg, finely chopped onion, or even a bit of Greek yogurt. These ingredients help the lean meat retain its juiciness.
• Pro Tip: If your ground bison is especially lean (90% or higher), you can drizzle a bit of olive oil into the mixture.

2. Form the Patties

• Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. With your thumb, make a small indent in the center of each patty—this helps prevent the burger from puffing up while cooking.
• Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape during cooking.

3. Preheat the Grill or Skillet

• If you are using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat and oil the grates.For a skillet, preferably cast iron, place it over medium-high heat and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

4. Cook the Bison Burgers

• Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium, depending on thickness.
• Bison cooks faster than beef due to its lower fat content. Overcooking can quickly lead to a dry burger, so watch them closely.

Internal Temperature Guide:

• Medium-rare: 130–135°F
• Medium: 140–145°F (recommended)
• Well-done: 160°F (not recommended for bison)
• Add cheese at the last minute of cooking and cover it with a lid to melt.

5. Toast the Buns

• While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a separate pan. This adds flavor and prevents sogginess once the condiments are added.

6. Assemble Your Bison Burgers

• Now comes the fun part! Start with the bottom bun, add lettuce, the patty with melted cheese, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite sauces. Finish with the top bun and serve hot.

While you can never go wrong with lettuce, tomato, and ketchup, here are some other topping combos that pair beautifully with bison:

• Southwest Style
• Pepper Jack cheese
• Guacamole or smashed avocado
• Pickled jalapeños
• Chipotle mayo Gourmet Mushroom Melt
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Caramelized onions
• Swiss cheese
• Dijon mustard Blue Cheese & Beef Bacon
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Crispy beef bacon
• Arugula
• Garlic aioli

Tips for Success

• Do not press the patties while cooking: This squeezes out juices and leads to dryness.
• Avoid over-mixing the meat: Combine until the ingredients come together.
• Rest the burgers: Let the patties rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute.
• Use a meat thermometer: Precise temperature control is crucial with lean meats like bison.

Healthy Side Ideas

Since bison burgers are a healthier alternative, you should also keep your sides on the lighter side. Here are some ideas:

1. Sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried for a nutritious crunch.
2. Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are great on the grill.
3. Cabbage slaw: A crunchy, tangy contrast to the decadent burger.
4. Mixed greens salad: Light and fresh, with olive oil and lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I substitute bison in any burger recipe?

  Yes! Bison can replace beef in almost any burger recipe, but because it is leaner, it is best to add some moisture or adjust cooking times accordingly.

• Where can I buy ground bison?

  Most health food stores, specialty meat shops, and well-stocked grocery chains carry ground bison. You can also order it online from reputable meat purveyors.

• Is bison gamey?

  Not really. Bison has a richer, slightly sweeter flavor than beef, but it is not overly gamey or wild-tasting.

• Can I freeze bison burgers?

  Absolutely. Form the patties, place parchment paper between each one, and freeze in an airtight container or bag. Cook from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

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