The Best 5 Ingredient Bison Burger Recipe

I LOVE a good bison burger recipe. Grilling season is upon us, so I can’t wait to share one of my favorite summer grill-out recipes!  This recipe requires minimal ingredients but still packs a flavor punch. It is perfect for when you are hosting a crowd or just a having casual family night in!
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Ahhh… summer! It’s the perfect time to fire up your grill that has been dormant all winter long. I love enjoying food based on the season. In the winter, you’ll catch me cooking all the chili and soup that I possibly can. The moment the weather allows, you’ll catch me enjoying the flavors of summer. Once that sun comes out, I fire up that grill, eat a lot more fresh smoothie bowls, and enjoy a cool refreshing salad.

The classic burger doesn’t need much of an introduction. I mean, who doesn’t love a good burger? Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just looking for a weeknight family dinner option, this recipe is the perfect way to savor the flavors of the season.

In this post, you will learn how to make the best bison burger with minimal ingredients. You will learn the differences between bison and beef, some history of the classic American burger, what to serve with them, and storage and reheating information.

In this recipe, I use my salt-free Okie Rub spice blend from my spice company – The Spice Girl Kitchen. I’m completely biased because it is, after all, my spice recipe and the best salt-free Okie Rub seasoning on the market. But feel free to use whatever rub you have on hand!

This post is all about The Best 5 Ingredient Bison Burger Recipe.

Brief Burger History

The world’s first burger can be traced all the way back to the late 1800s – can you believe that?! There are 2 people who claim to be the inventor of the classic American staple: Louis Lassen and Fletcher Davis. Lassen owned a food cart in Connecticut where one day in the late 1800s he ran out of his regular lunch dish and started serving grilled patties on bread to get by that day. In Texas around the 1880s, Davis served his hamburger with onions and mustard.

Even though the exact inventor is unknown, one thing is for sure – the burger quickly became an American staple. It made its debut in fast-food establishments such as White Castle in the 1920s and McDonald’s by the 1940s. Today, there are countless ways to build a burger and countless restaurants that carry them.

Bison vs Beef

I love using Bison as often as possible. I’m lucky because local bison is easily accessible to me in Oklahoma! I love using bison because it has the same great flavor as beef, but usually has more nutritional value.

First of all, bison is naturally leaner than beef. Bison meat contains just 2.4 grams of fat per 100 grams compared to 18.5 grams of fat per 100 grams. Bison is also rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. It also has a higher omega-3 content and lower saturated fat and cholesterol content.

When possible, I opt for bison for its extra nutritional punch BUT use these tips below to prevent it from drying out.

Keep It Juicy

Let’s be real. We want a juicy burger. Since bison is leaner than beef, it can dry out quicker and be easily overcooked. Using a meat thermometer to carefully monitor the temperature ensures that you keep the burger juicy and flavorful.

The addition of the egg and breadcrumbs in the recipe below acts as binders for the burgers so they don’t fall apart. The egg locks in moisture, ensuring the burgers don’t dry out. The breadcrumbs prevent the burger from becoming too dense and aid in the overall texture.

What To Serve With Your Bison Burgers

I think the real question is, what can you NOT serve with them?! If you are hosting a crowd, I am a big fan of a “burger bar” where guests can build their creations. Any good burger bar should have buns and burgers (duh!) as well as an array of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, pickles, condiments, bacon, and more!

As far as sides go, I like to throw veggie kebabs or corn on the cob next to the burgers on the grill. You could also serve assorted summer fruit, a crisp summer salad, a cheese tray, cornbread, or baked beans! Don’t forget the dips like salsa, hummus, or spinach & onion dip! Any and all of these options (plus more that I’m SURE I’m forgetting) would pair well with your bison burgers – just mix it up and have fun with it!

Store & Reheat

Store

Fridge: Transfer the burgers to a large glass storage container with an airtight lid. Allow it to cool to room temperature before securing the lid (about 30-45 minutes; the exact time depends on the amount of meat). Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: You can also freeze the burgers for up to 3 months. Place the burgers in the fridge to thaw overnight for best results. Make sure the container is airtight!

Reheat

Microwave: Place burgers in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds at a time until heated through. This prevents overcooking and keeps the burger from drying out*

Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place burgers in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and cook for 10-15 minutes. You can also add a splash of water or beef broth to the dish to prevent the burgers from drying out*

Stovetop: Place the burgers on a pan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to the pan to prevent the burgers from drying out. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Repeat until heated through.*

* Total time depends on the amount you are reheating and the thickness of the burgers.

This post was all about The Best 5 Ingredient Bison Burger Recipe!

Did you make this recipe? Make sure to tag me @thespicegirlkitchen_ on Instagram or @thespicegirlkitchen on TikTok! I love seeing your recreations! I will be your ultimate hype woman!

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