- August 1, 2025
- Main Dishes
Bison Burgers Recipe
Juicy, flavorful, and lean, this bison burger recipe is the perfect grilled alternative to beef. Learn how to make bison burgers with butter, French onion seasoning, and simple tips for juicy results every time.
Looking to level up your burger game? This juicy bison burger recipe is a flavorful, healthier alternative to the traditional beef burger and has quickly become one of my favorite burger recipes to throw on the grill.
Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these western bison burgers are a great choice with bold flavor, fewer calories, and that satisfying juicy burger bite everyone loves.
What Is a Bison Burger?
A bison burger is made using lean ground bison meat, which comes from American bison (also called American buffalo). It’s a healthier alternative to ground beef because it contains less fat and cholesterol, but still packs plenty of flavor. Bison has a slightly sweet flavor, a high protein content, and is becoming more common in local grocery stores and on restaurant menus. Compared to a regular burger, a bison patty has fewer calories and a leaner profile while still giving you that rich, beefy taste.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make flavorful bison burgers:
For the burger patties:
- Ground bison (lean meat with rich flavor)
- Cold butter, grated (keeps patties juicy and adds some extra fat because this protein is so lean when cooking)
- French onion soup seasoning (or use onion powder and garlic powder as subs)
- Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
For serving:
- Burger buns or brioche buns (toasted)
- Slice of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
- Burger sauce or Dijon mustard
- Ripe tomatoes and lettuce (butter lettuce or romaine)
- Optional toppings: red onions, caramelized onions, crispy bacon
Substitutions: Try pretzel buns or lettuce wraps in place of hamburger buns. Swap in olive oil or ghee for the butter if needed.
How to Make Bison Burgers
Learning how to make bison burgers is easy and rewarding. Follow these steps for flavorful results:
- Make the Patty Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your ground bison, grated cold butter, French onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a light hand to mix the ingredients—you don’t want to overwork the meat. - Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions. Form into burger patties about ¾-inch thick. Press a small indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly. - Grill the Burgers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place patties directly over the hot grill grates and cook burgers for 4–5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 140–145°F for a medium-rare burger. - Add the Cheese
Place cheese slices on the patties during the final minute of cooking so they melt perfectly over the meat. - Assemble and Serve
Toast your open buns on the grill. Layer the bottom bun with sauce, lettuce, a grilled bison patty, ripe tomato slices, and the top bun. Spoon onions or add your favorite toppings to finish.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Bison Burgers
Want to know the best way to cook bison burgers on the grill?
- Start with a hot grill set to medium-high heat.
- Always make a small indent in the center of each burger to prevent puffing.
- Avoid pressing down on uncooked patties while grilling—you’ll squeeze out the juices.
- Flip burgers only once, after 4–5 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach a safe internal temperature without overcooking.
Why Add Butter to Bison Burgers?
Since bison is a lean meat, it can easily dry out if overcooked. That’s where butter comes in. Grated cold butter distributed throughout the burger adds moisture and richness, making each bite juicy and flavorful. You get all the benefits of a healthier meat option while keeping that classic, indulgent burger taste.
What to Serve with Bison Burgers
Wondering what to serve with bison burgers? Here are some tasty ideas:
- Smoked Sweet Potatoes (crispy and slightly sweet)
- Grilled corn on the cob with garlic butter
- Dill Pickle Coleslaw or a tangy cabbage slaw
- Roasted vegetables made in a cast-iron skillet or an air fryer
- Traditional Dli Style Potato salad or this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad are perfect sides
More Recipes To Try
Pull Apart Cheeseburger Sliders
Bison Burgers Recipe
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
- 2 lb. Ground Bison
- 4 tbsp Very Cold Butter grated
- 1 packet French Onion Soup Seasoning Mix (lipton brand is what I used)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
For Serving:
- 6 Burger Buns
- 6 slices Cheese
- 1 batch Burger Sauce
- Lettuce
- Tomato sliced
Instructions
- Make the Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground bison, grated butter, French onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined do not overwork.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions and shape into burger patties about ¾-inch thick. Press a small dimple in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
- Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140–145°F for medium. Add cheese slices during the last minute of cooking, if desired.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the buns on the grill. Layer the bottom bun with burger sauce, lettuce, the grilled bison patty, tomato slices, and the top bun.