South Dakota Bison Burgers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience the bold flavors of the Great Plains with these South Dakota Bison Burgers grilled over open fire on the Arteflame. The intense 1,000°F center sear locks in juices, while the flat griddle finish ensures juicy, flavorful perfection. This burger is a taste of the Midwest elevated to gourmet status—all done entirely on the versatile and easy-to-use Arteflame grill.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground bison
• 1 tsp coarse sea salt
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 4 slices of local South Dakota cheddar cheese
• Butter, for toasting buns and searing
• Sliced tomatoes
• Fresh lettuce
• Sliced red onions
• Pickles (optional)
• Mustard and mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Ball up three paper napkins and pour vegetable oil on them.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach searing temperature at the center (1,000°F).

Step 2: Prepare the patties

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground bison with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties (approximately ½-inch thick).
3. Press a slight indent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during grilling.

Step 3: Sear the bison patties

1. Place each patty directly on the center grill grate to sear at over 1,000°F for 1-2 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.
2. Carefully move each patty to the inner area of the flat top griddle to continue cooking to desired doneness.
3. Remove patties from the grill when internal temperature is 15°F below target (e.g., for medium rare, remove at 120°F).

Step 4: Toast the buns

1. Spread butter generously on each cut side of the brioche buns.
2. Place on the cooktop griddle, cut side down, until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the burgers

1. Layer the bottom bun with lettuce and tomato slices.
2. Add the bison patty and immediately top with a slice of cheddar cheese to melt slightly.
3. Finish with red onions, pickles, and your choice of mustard or mayo.
4. Top with the toasted bun and serve immediately.

Tips

• Bison is lean—do not overcook. Medium rare to medium is ideal.
• Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Cook all your burger toppings, including onions or mushrooms, directly on the flat griddle for added flavor.
• Use butter instead of oil for richer, more indulgent flavor on the griddle cooktop.
• Adjust ingredient placement on the cooktop for optimal heat zones depending on cooking needs.

Variations

1. Spicy Southwest Bison Burger: Add chipotle mayo, grilled jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
2. Mushroom Swiss Bison Burger: Sauté mushrooms on the flat griddle and top the burgers with Swiss cheese for a savory umami twist.
3. Bison Blue Cheeseburger: Crumble blue cheese on the patties and top with arugula and caramelized onions.
4. Breakfast Bison Burger: Add a fried egg and strips of Arteflame-grilled bacon with cheddar and hash browns.
5. BBQ Bacon Bison Burger: Brush with BBQ sauce and top with grilled bacon and crispy onions made on the flat cooktop.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries grilled on the flat top
• Grilled corn on the cob with herbed butter
• Roasted garlic aioli coleslaw
• Local South Dakota lager or a smoky porter beer
• Iced tea with lemon and mint

Conclusion

Grilling these South Dakota Bison Burgers on the Arteflame brings rich, hearty flavor to your backyard gatherings. The center searing locks in juices while the flat top grill ensures even cooking—results you can taste in every bite. Plus, with all ingredients cooked on your Arteflame, cleanup is minimal and the flavor is maximal.