BBQ Elk Burgers with Michigan Smoked Cheddar

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a juicy, perfectly seared elk burger, and with an Arteflame grill, you get that steakhouse-quality sear every time. These BBQ elk burgers are topped with rich, tangy Michigan smoked cheddar and sweet, caramelized grilled onions—grilled to perfection on the Arteflame’s flat-top cooktop for an unbeatable depth of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground elk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 slices Michigan smoked cheddar
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 brioche buns
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 1 large tomato, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches optimal grilling temperatures.

Step 2: Prepare the burger patties

1. In a large bowl, mix ground elk with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Form the mixture into four evenly sized patties, pressing slightly in the center to prevent bulging when cooking.

Step 3: Sear the elk burgers

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate, searing them at 1,000°F for about 1-2 minutes per side to lock in the juices.
2. Once a crust forms, move the patties to the flat-top cooktop to continue cooking to desired doneness.
3. Remove the burgers from the grill when they are 15°F below the desired temperature, as they will continue cooking after removal.

Step 4: Caramelize the onions

1. Melt butter on the outer edge of the Arteflame cooktop.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized.

Step 5: Toast the buns and melt cheese

1. Place brioche buns cut-side down on the Arteflame griddle until they turn golden and slightly crispy.
2. Top the elk patties with Michigan smoked cheddar and let it melt while resting.

Step 6: Assemble and serve

1. Spread BBQ sauce on the toasted buns.
2. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the sizzling elk patty with melted cheese.
3. Layer with grilled onions, a tomato slice, and close with the top bun.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Always remove the burgers from the grill when they are 15°F below your desired final temperature to allow for carryover cooking.
• Use high-quality Michigan smoked cheddar for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• For the juiciest burgers, avoid overworking the elk meat when mixing ingredients.
• Control the heat zones on the Arteflame cooktop by moving food closer or farther from the center.
• Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before assembling to keep the juices intact.

Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Elk Burgers: Add diced jalapeños to the elk mixture and use spicy BBQ sauce for extra heat.
2. Western Elk Burgers: Top with crispy bacon and a fried egg for a hearty and flavorful twist.
3. Maple Bourbon Elk Burgers: Glaze the patties in a mixture of maple syrup and bourbon for a smoky-sweet flavor.
4. Mushroom Swiss Elk Burgers: Swap the smoked cheddar for Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms.
5. Blue Cheese Elk Burgers: Mix crumbled blue cheese into the patties and top with caramelized onions.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries, grilled on the Arteflame cooktop
• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• A crisp Michigan apple cider
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon

Conclusion

Grilling BBQ elk burgers with Michigan smoked cheddar on the Arteflame gives you an incredible combination of smoky, juicy, and rich flavors. The high heat of the center grill grate creates an unbeatable sear, while the flat-top cooktop caramelizes onions and toasts buns to perfection. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to grill burgers any other way!