Wisconsin Grilled Elk Burgers on Arteflame

Introduction

If you're looking for a bold, flavorful burger that embodies the wild spirit of Wisconsin, these grilled elk burgers are your answer. Using the Arteflame grill brings out the rich, gamey flavor of elk while adding a premium steakhouse-quality sear. With reverse searing for perfect doneness and a buttery finish, these burgers are unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground elk
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
• 4 brioche buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (Wisconsin-made preferred)
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Butter (for grilling)
• Condiments of choice (ketchup, mustard, mayo)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack small pieces of firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and let the fire build for about 20 minutes to heat the grill properly.
4. Ensure the center grill grate reaches over 1,000°F for perfect searing, and the surrounding flat cooktop is heated according to your needs.

Step 2: Prepare the Elk Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground elk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Gently mix without overworking the meat.
3. Form the mixture into four equal patties, placing a cube or two of cold butter in the center of each and folding the meat over it to lock in juiciness.

Step 3: Sear the Patties

1. Add a bit of butter to the center grill grate.
2. Place elk patties on the center grate to get a sear for 2 minutes per side, just to lock in the juices.
3. Once well-seared, move the patties to the surrounding flat griddle to finish cooking using the reverse sear method.

Step 4: Cook to Perfect Doneness

1. Using an instant-read thermometer, flip each patty occasionally and cook until internal temperature reaches 15°F below desired doneness (medium rare = 130°F, pull at 115°F).
2. Be sure the patties sit on the hotter inner ring of the cooktop as needed for better heat control.
3. Once done, remove from grill and let rest while you grill the buns.

Step 5: Toast Buns and Assemble

1. Butter the brioche buns and place them cut side down on the flat cooktop until golden brown.
2. Place cheese on the warm patties so it begins melting while assembling.
3. Layer each bun with lettuce, tomato, elk patty, red onion, and your favorite condiments.

Tips

• Use high-quality elk meat for best results.
• Never press down on the patties while grilling—this squeezes out the juices.
• Chill your patties for 10 minutes before grilling to help retain shape and keep juices inside.
• Monitor heat zones on the Arteflame; cook near the outside for gentle heat and close to the middle for searing.
• Always rest the meat for 5-10 minutes after removing from grill.

Variations

1. Spicy Southwest Elk Burger: Add chipotle powder and chopped jalapeños to the elk mix; top with pepper jack cheese and avocado.
2. Wisconsin Beer Cheese Elk Burger: Mix in beer cheese sauce and grilled onions; topped with crispy bacon.
3. Elk Breakfast Burger: Add a fried egg, crispy hash browns, and maple Dijon sauce on grilled ciabatta.
4. Mushroom Swiss Elk Burger: Sauté mushrooms and onions on the flat top and top patties with Swiss cheese for a classic combo.
5. Herbed Elk Burger: Blend in fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage into the ground elk for an herbaceous flavor boost.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the Arteflame with herbed butter
• Smoked gouda mac and cheese
• Wisconsin craft IPA or amber ale
• Sweet potato fries on the flat cooktop
• Homemade dill pickle spears

Conclusion

These Wisconsin-style elk burgers celebrate wild flavor and expert technique using the power of the Arteflame grill. With a high-heat sear and even cooktop finish, you’ll get professional, mouthwatering results at home. Try this recipe today and elevate your grilling game in true Midwestern style.