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Bison Burger

Juicy 5-Ingredient Bison Burger Recipe (Grilled or Stovetop)

This juicy bison burger recipe comes together with just 5 simple ingredients and is packed with bold, savory flavor. I’ll walk you through how to season and cook bison burgers to the perfect temperature so they stay tender and never dry out. Whether you're grilling for a summer cookout or making a quick weeknight dinner, these lean burgers are a must-try!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Okie Rub
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with avocado oil.
  2. Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix together until well combined. Form into 4 even patties. Make a thumbprint in the center of each patty.
  3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side (depending on the thickness of the burgers) or until desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to help determine when they are done (135°F–140°F for medium-rare to medium. Bison is lean and dries out quickly past 160°F). Do not press down on the burgers as they cook to keep those juices locked in.
  4. Allow your cooked burgers to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This gives the juices time to redistribute throughout the patty, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
  5. Serve with soft, lightly toasted buns and moisture-boosting toppings like tomatoes, sautéed onions, mushrooms, or a creamy burger sauce.

Notes

Tips for the Best Bison Burgers:

  • Cook Temperature: For juicy burgers, cook to 135°F–140°F for medium-rare to medium. Bison is lean and dries out quickly past 160°F.
  • Best Seasoning: I use my Okie Rub and Tri-Salt Blend from The Spice Girl Kitchen. Or use a simple blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add Moisture: Optional—but helpful! Mix in a tablespoon of olive oil, grated onion, Dijon mustard, or mayo to keep patties moist.
  • No Grill? No Problem: Cook your bison burgers in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, about 4–5 minutes per side.
  • Serving Ideas: Pair with sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a fresh summer salad.
  • Storage: Store cooked patties in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying out.