Arkansas BBQ Bison Burgers on the Arteflame Grill

Ingredients

• 2 Arkansas-raised bison patties (8 oz each)
• 2 burger buns
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp tangy barbecue sauce
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 4 slices crispy bacon
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup arugula

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins into the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the paper and let the fire build. Your grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the bison patties

1. Season the bison patties with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Apply a thin layer of butter to each patty to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Sear the bison patties

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate for about 90 seconds per side to develop a steakhouse-quality crust.
2. Move the patties to the flat cooktop griddle to gently bring them up to the desired doneness.
3. Cook until the internal temperature is 15°F below your target temperature.
4. Remove from the grill and let rest.

Step 4: Toast the buns

1. Spread butter inside the burger buns.
2. Place them on the flat cooktop griddle and toast until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the burgers

1. Spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on the toasted buns.
2. Add arugula as the base, followed by the rested bison patties.
3. Top with cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and barbecue sauce.
4. Place the top bun and serve hot.

Tips

• Use high-quality Arkansas-raised bison for the best flavor.
• Always let your meat rest for about 5 minutes before serving to retain its juices.
• Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to create unique flavors.
• Keep your grilling zones in mind—hot at the center, cooler toward the edge to cook everything perfectly.

Variations

1. Spicy Bison Burger: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a fiery kick.
2. Blue Cheese Bison Burger: Replace cheddar with crumbled blue cheese and top with balsamic onions.
3. Mushroom Swiss Bison Burger: Grill portobello mushrooms on the flat cooktop and use Swiss cheese.
4. BBQ Pineapple Bison Burger: Add grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and smoky contrast.
5. Bacon Avocado Bison Burger: Top with fresh avocado and extra crispy bacon for a creamy and savory bite.

Conclusion

Cooking Arkansas BBQ Bison Burgers on the Arteflame grill brings out the bison’s deep, juicy flavors while giving it a perfect sear. Grilling on the flat cooktop ensures even cooking and maximum tenderness. Whether you're making the classic version or trying out a variation, this technique guarantees an amazing burger every time.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
• Ice-cold craft beer
• Classic potato salad