A grilled bison burger is a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Bison meat is leaner, packed with protein, and has a slightly sweet, rich taste. These juicy burgers are easy to make, perfect for grilling season, and can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier than beef – Bison is leaner, lower in fat, and higher in protein.
Juicy and flavorful – Despite being lean, bison burgers are tender and full of taste.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick cooking time.
Great for grilling – Perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Customizable toppings – Dress it up with your favorite sauces, cheeses, and veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground bison
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Worcestershire sauce
Olive oil
Burger buns
Toppings (cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, burger sauce, etc.)

Directions

Preheat the grill – Set your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
Prepare the patties – In a bowl, mix ground bison with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Form into patties about ¾-inch thick.
Brush with oil – Lightly brush each patty with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the burgers – Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium or 160°F for well done.
Add cheese (optional) – Place cheese slices on the burgers in the last minute of cooking.
Toast the buns – Lightly grill the buns for extra flavor.
Assemble and serve – Place the patties on buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 burgers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy bison burger: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the meat.
BBQ-style: Brush with barbecue sauce and top with crispy onions.
Mushroom and Swiss: Sauté mushrooms and melt Swiss cheese on top.
Low-carb: Skip the bun and serve on lettuce wraps.
Bacon bison burger: Add crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze raw or cooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent dryness.

FAQs

What does bison taste like?

Bison has a slightly sweet, rich, and beef-like flavor with a leaner texture.

Is bison healthier than beef?

Yes, bison is lower in fat and calories while being high in protein and nutrients.

How do I keep bison burgers from drying out?

Don’t overcook them, and add a little olive oil or Worcestershire sauce for moisture.

Can I cook bison burgers on a stovetop?

Yes! Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

What’s the best internal temperature for bison burgers?

For medium, aim for 140°F; for well-done, go up to 160°F.

Should I add an egg or breadcrumbs to the meat?

Bison holds together well without fillers, but you can add them for texture if desired.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! Form the patties ahead and refrigerate until ready to grill.

What’s the best cheese for bison burgers?

Cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese all pair well with bison.

What toppings go well with bison burgers?

Lettuce, tomato, pickles, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or avocado are great choices.

Can I mix bison with beef?

Yes! Mixing bison with beef adds more fat and juiciness to the burgers.

Conclusion

Grilled bison burgers are a delicious, healthy, and easy alternative to traditional beef burgers. With a rich flavor and lean texture, they’re perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight meals. Try them today and enjoy a flavorful twist on classic burgers!