Bison Burger Recipe
Make Bison Burger Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Bison Patties
Toppings & Build
Method
Bison Patties
- 1
Prepare meat
Place 1 lb ground bison in a large bowl. Add 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Gently combine with your hands or a spatula until just mixed — avoid overworking to keep patties tender.
- 2
Portion and shape
Divide the seasoned meat into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Shape each portion into a patty roughly 3/4 inch thick, pressing a shallow 1/2-inch dimple in the center of each patty to reduce domeing while cooking.
- 3
- 4
Cook patties
Place patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook 2-4 minutes on the second side for medium-rare to medium (bison is lean; avoid overcooking). Total cook time will be about 5–8 minutes depending on thickness and heat. If adding cheese, place a slice of cheddar on each patty in the last 1 minute and cover briefly to melt.
- 5
Check doneness and rest
Use an instant-read thermometer: target 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium. Remove patties and let rest on a plate for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
Toppings & Build
- 6
Prepare buns and vegetables
While patties rest, halve the 4 burger buns and lightly toast them cut-side down on the grill or in a skillet until golden, about 1-2 minutes. Slice the tomato into 4 even slices. Thinly slice the half red onion into rings. Rinse and pat dry 4 lettuce leaves.
- 7
Make sauce
In a small bowl combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon ketchup. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce if desired.
- 8
Assemble burgers
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce on each bun bottom. Place a lettuce leaf on each, then a slice of tomato and 2-3 onion rings. Set a rested bison patty (with melted cheese if used) on top. Add 2 pickle slices and top with the bun crown spread lightly with remaining sauce if desired.
- 9
Serve
Serve the bison burgers immediately with your choice of sides (fries, salad, or roasted vegetables).