There’s something special about gathering around the table with friends and family to enjoy a meal that’s simple yet satisfying. That’s why I’m excited to share a recipe that brings everyone together in the most delicious way: Juicy Bison Burgers. These aren’t your typical beef burgers, and that’s exactly what makes them so exciting. Bison meat is leaner and has a slightly sweeter, richer flavor compared to beef, making it a fantastic option for a burger that’s both flavorful and healthy. Plus, they come together quickly—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.
I first discovered bison burgers on a road trip through the Midwest, where bison meat is a regional specialty. I was hesitant at first, not sure if I’d like the flavor, but one bite and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve made these burgers countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there. What I love most about these burgers is how easily they adapt to different tastes. Sometimes, I’ll add a bit of garlic powder or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. On other occasions, I’ve mixed in a bit of crumbled blue cheese directly into the patties for a creamy surprise in every bite.
One tip to keep these burgers as juicy as possible is to handle the meat gently when forming the patties. Overworking the meat can make the burgers dense and dry, which is the last thing you want. Another trick is to cook them in a cast iron skillet, which helps develop that beautiful, rich brown crust that locks in all the juices. Whether you’re serving these on a classic sesa
How to Prepare Juicy Bison Burgers
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Ingredients
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 21 ounces ground bison
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground bison, minced shallot, olive oil, and all the seasonings.
- Gently mix the ingredients by hand until just combined, then form the mixture into 4 evenly-sized burger patties, taking care not to overwork the meat.
- In a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Cook the patties until they develop a deep brown crust on each side, approximately 8-9 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 130-135°F.
- Serve these juicy bison burgers on buns of your choice, topped with your favorite condiments.
Storing Suggestions:
Store leftover bison burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain their juiciness.
FAQs:
Can I grill these bison burgers instead of cooking them in a skillet?
Yes, you can definitely grill these bison burgers. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor to the burgers.
What are some good toppings for bison burgers?
Bison burgers pair well with a variety of toppings. Consider adding caramelized onions, blue cheese, avocado, arugula, or a spicy aioli. The rich flavor of bison can stand up to bold toppings, so feel free to get creative.
How can I prevent my bison burgers from drying out?
Bison is leaner than beef, so it can dry out if overcooked. To keep the burgers juicy, cook them to no more than medium (130-135°F) and avoid pressing down on them while cooking. Adding a bit of fat, like butter or olive oil, to the mixture also helps retain moisture.
Can I freeze the uncooked bison patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked bison patties. Shape them into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
What should I serve with bison burgers?
Bison burgers go well with a variety of sides, such as sweet potato fries, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. A light and fresh side complements the rich flavor of the bison.
Can I substitute ground beef for the bison in this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground beef instead of bison. Keep in mind that ground beef has a higher fat content, so the cooking time may vary slightly. The flavors will be slightly different, but it will still be a delicious burger.
Juicy Bison Burgers
Ingredients
- 21 ounces of bison ground
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 small shallot finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the ground bison with the chopped shallot, olive oil, and all the seasonings.
- Mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined, then shape the mixture into 4 equally-sized burger patties, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Melt the butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat, and cook the patties until they develop a rich brown crust on each side, about 8-9 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads between 130-135°F.
- Serve your juicy bison burgers on your choice of buns with your preferred toppings.
