Chipotle Bison Burgers – A Lean and Flavorful Twist on Classic Burgers
If you’re looking for a healthier, high-protein alternative to traditional beef burgers, then bison burgers should be at the top of your list. This chipotle bison burger recipe takes the natural richness of lean, grass-fed bison meat and elevates it with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, a hint of garlic, and a perfectly charred exterior.
Chipotle Bison Burgers | Juicy Bison Burger Recipe with Bold Flavor and Smoky Heat
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time15 minutes
Cook time10 minutes
Total time25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bison Burgers:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tsp adobo sauce (from chipotle can)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 4 brioche or whole wheat buns
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- Lettuce or arugula
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Bison Burger Patties
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground bison, olive oil, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently mix until just combined—avoid overworking the meat.
- Form into four equal-sized patties, about ¾-inch thick.
- 2
Cook the Bison Burgers
Grill Method:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 130-140°F for medium-rare to medium.
- Add cheese slices in the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Add cheese and cover the pan to allow it to melt.
- 3
Assemble the Burgers
- Toast buns lightly on the grill or skillet.
- Spread mashed avocado mixed with lime juice on the bottom bun.
- Add lettuce, the chipotle bison burger, sliced red onion, and top with the bun.
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Recipe Notes for the Best Bison Burgers
- Use High-Quality Ground Bison: Bison is leaner than beef, so choose 85-90% lean bison for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Overmixing can make the patties dense and dry. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
- Cook to Medium-Rare or Medium: Since bison is leaner than beef, it can dry out quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 130-140°F (54-60°C) for the juiciest results.
- Add Fat for Extra Juiciness: If you want a richer burger, mix in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, bacon fat, or a beaten egg.
- Rest the Burgers Before Serving: Let cooked bison burgers rest for 3-5 minutes before assembling to lock in juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Because bison cooks faster than beef, using a thermometer ensures you don’t overcook it.
Variations of Chipotle Bison Burgers
1. Alternative Cooking Methods
✔ Smoked Bison Burgers:
- Smoke the patties at 225°F (107°C) for 45 minutes before finishing with a quick sear on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet.
- This enhances the smoky, bold flavors of the chipotle seasoning.
✔ Air Fryer Bison Burgers:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook burgers for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for doneness at 130-140°F for medium-rare to medium.
✔ Stuffed Bison Burgers:
- Add a slice of pepper jack or smoked gouda in the center of each patty before sealing.
- This creates a gooey, cheesy center when grilled.
2. Flavor & Seasoning Variations
✔ Sweet & Spicy Bison Burgers:
- Mix in 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey with the ground bison for a touch of sweetness to balance the smoky chipotle heat.
✔ BBQ Chipotle Bison Burgers:
- Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce to the meat mixture.
- Top with crispy onion straws and extra BBQ sauce for a bold, tangy finish.
✔ Garlic-Herb Bison Burgers:
- Swap the chipotle for roasted garlic, fresh thyme, and rosemary for a more herbaceous, aromatic burger.
✔ Bacon-Wrapped Bison Burgers:
- Wrap each patty in thin-cut bacon before grilling for extra moisture and smoky flavor.
3. Alternative Protein Options
✔ Beef Burgers: Swap bison for 85/15 ground beef while keeping the chipotle seasoning for bold flavor.
✔ Turkey or Chicken Burgers: Use ground turkey or chicken with an added egg and breadcrumbs to retain moisture.
✔ Vegan Smoky Chipotle Burgers: Replace bison with a mix of black beans, mushrooms, and quinoa blended with the same spices for a plant-based alternative.
4. Creative Topping Ideas
✔ Cheese Options:
- Sharp Cheddar – Classic and melts well.
- Smoked Gouda – Enhances the chipotle’s smoky depth.
- Pepper Jack – Adds an extra kick of heat.
- Blue Cheese – Pairs well with the rich, lean bison flavor.
✔ Sauce Ideas:
- Avocado-Lime Sauce – Creamy and cooling against the smoky heat.
- Chipotle Mayo – Enhances the spice level.
- Garlic Aioli – Adds a smooth, garlicky finish.
- Caramelized Onion & Balsamic Reduction – Sweet and savory contrast.
✔ Crunchy & Fresh Additions:
- Pickled Jalapeños or Red Onions – Adds tang and crunch.
- Crispy Fried Onions – Provides texture and richness.
- Shredded Lettuce & Sliced Tomato – A classic refreshing balance.
- Sautéed Mushrooms – Deep, umami-rich flavor.
5. Best Sides to Serve with Bison Burgers
✔ Crispy Sweet Potato Fries – Complements the smoky chipotle seasoning.
✔ Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter – Adds a smoky, tangy bite.
✔ Classic French Fries or Tater Tots – A simple, satisfying pairing.
✔ Coleslaw with Jalapeño-Lime Dressing – Brings a fresh crunch to balance the burger’s richness.
✔ Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze – A healthy yet flavorful side.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Make-Ahead Patties: Form patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling for better flavor development.
✔ Freezing Patties: Wrap uncooked patties in parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
✔ Leftover Burgers: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to prevent drying out.
This chipotle bison burger recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their burger game with lean, flavorful, and smoky ingredients while keeping things juicy and packed with protein. The endless variations and topping ideas make it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Nutrition
| Calories | 450 |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 9g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Bison Burgers
Bison: A Native North American Protein
Bison meat has been a staple in North America for centuries, especially among Indigenous cultures, who relied on bison for food, clothing, and tools. Unlike modern grain-fed beef, bison is naturally leaner, lower in fat, and higher in protein, making it a nutrient-dense option for those seeking a healthier red meat alternative.
Why Bison is Perfect for Burgers
While bison burgers have gained popularity in recent years due to their high protein content and rich flavor, they require a different cooking approach than traditional beef burgers:
✔ Bison is leaner than beef – It cooks faster and requires careful temperature control to avoid dryness.
✔ Bison has a slightly sweeter, deeper flavor – It pairs well with smoky, spicy, and tangy ingredients.
✔ It’s a healthier alternative – Bison is naturally lower in cholesterol and saturated fat compared to beef.
This chipotle bison burger recipe builds on these qualities by adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce, creating a deep, smoky heat that enhances the natural flavors of bison meat.
The Art of Cooking the Perfect Bison Burger
How to Keep Bison Burgers Juicy
Since bison is lower in fat than beef, it has a tendency to dry out if overcooked. Follow these steps to keep your bison burgers juicy:
✔ Don’t overmix the meat – Overworking the bison mixture results in tough burgers.
✔ Cook to medium-rare or medium – Aim for 130-140°F (54-60°C) for the best texture.
✔ Add moisture – Ingredients like chipotle in adobo, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce help retain juiciness.
✔ Use high heat for a quick sear – A hot grill or cast-iron skillet locks in moisture while creating a crispy exterior.
Interesting Things About This Recipe
- Packed with protein and flavor – Each bison burger is lean yet rich, with a smoky-spicy kick.
- A perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy – Chipotle peppers bring heat, while lime and avocado add freshness.
- A great alternative to beef burgers – Lower in fat but just as satisfying.
- Pairs well with a variety of toppings – From classic cheddar to spicy slaw, the options are endless.
An Overview of the Recipe Components
This bison burger recipe consists of:
- The Bison Patty – Infused with chipotle peppers, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
- The Toppings – Sharp cheddar, avocado-lime sauce, and crispy lettuce for added texture.
- The Bun – Lightly toasted brioche or whole grain buns for the perfect balance.
What Occasions Is This Recipe Perfect For?
✔ Summer Cookouts – A unique alternative to classic beef burgers.
✔ Game Day Burgers – Smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor.
✔ Healthy Meal Prep – A high-protein, lean option for a balanced diet.
✔ Gourmet Burger Nights – A perfect way to impress guests with bold flavors.
Why This is the Perfect Bison Burger Recipe
✔ High in protein, low in fat, and packed with flavor.
✔ Smoky chipotle heat balanced with tangy avocado-lime sauce.
✔ Quick and easy to make on the grill or stovetop.
✔ Pairs well with classic or creative burger toppings.
