Texas Grilled Bison Burgers with Cheddar & Onions

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready to treat yourself to the best homemade Texas-style bison burgers—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seared. This recipe captures the bold, meaty flavor of bison while locking in all the natural juices thanks to the reverse searing method on the Arteflame grill. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and sweet grilled onions, this burger is bursting with bold Texas flavor. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or just want an unforgettable weeknight dinner, these Texas grilled bison burgers hit the mark.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground bison meat
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced into rings
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp salted butter (use more as needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, BBQ sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place 3 paper napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Pour a little vegetable oil over the napkins.
3. Stack dry firewood over the soaked napkins in a teepee shape.
4. Carefully light the paper napkins with a match or lighter.
5. Allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is properly heated. You’re ready to grill when the center grate is hot enough to sear (around 1,000°F).

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Add butter to a medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
2. Spread out the onion rings and cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 15–20 minutes, until soft and golden brown.

Step 3: Form and Season the Bison Patties

1. Divide ground bison into four equal portions and form into patties about ¾-inch thick.
2. Press a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing as it cooks.
3. Season both sides of the patties generously with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Step 4: Sear the Patties on the Center Grill Grate

1. Place the bison patties directly on the center grill grate over high heat.
2. Sear for 2 minutes on each side to develop a flavorful crust and lock in the juices.

Step 5: Reverse Sear on the Flat Cooktop

1. Transfer the seared patties to a medium-heat zone on the flat cooktop.
2. Continue cooking to your desired doneness (medium-rare = 130–135°F, medium = 135–145°F).
3. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking and let it melt.
4. Remove burgers from the grill about 15°F before target temperature, as they will continue to cook while resting.

Step 6: Toast the Buns

1. Place split brioche burger buns face-down on the flat cooktop for 1–2 minutes or until golden and crisped.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers

1. Layer bottom bun with the grilled bison patty, melted cheddar, grilled onions, and your choice of optional toppings.
2. Top with bun and serve hot.

Tips

• Bison is leaner than beef—avoid overcooking for best juiciness.
• Use butter for grilling onions and toasting buns—it brings out classic Texas flavor.
• Sear at the center and finish on the cooktop for full control over temperature.
• Let the meat rest for 5–7 minutes after cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to get precise doneness.

Variations

1. Texas BBQ Bison Burger: Top with coleslaw, sliced jalapeños, and smoky BBQ sauce for a southern twist.
2. Mushroom Swiss Bison Burger: Replace cheddar with Swiss cheese and top with grilled mushrooms sautéed in butter.
3. Spicy Southwest Bison Burger: Add pepper jack cheese, grilled poblano peppers, and a smear of chipotle mayo.
4. Bacon Blue Bison Burger: Add crumbled blue cheese and crispy bacon for a rich and bold flavor combination.
5. Avocado Ranch Bison Burger: Top with sliced avocado, ranch dressing, and fresh arugula for a creamy, fresh bite.

Conclusion

With the unique power of the Arteflame grill and this reverse searing method, you’ll master the art of juicy, smoky Texas-style bison burgers every time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a backyard dinner, this burger delivers unforgettable flavor and presentation.

Best pairings

• Sweet potato fries grilled on the flat top with butter and rosemary
• Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter
• Texas-style baked beans cooked on a cast iron pan on the grill (optional)
• Ice-cold craft IPA or root beer
• Grilled peach halves with cinnamon and honey for dessert