Savor the Flavor: Your Guide to Crafting the Perfect Juicy Skillet Buffalo Burger
Step aside, traditional beef burgers! Get ready to experience a mouth-watering and surprisingly healthy alternative with this incredible Skillet Buffalo Burger recipe. We’re talking about lean, flavorful ground bison expertly blended with aromatic red onion, zesty jalapeños, and a perfect balance of savory spices. Seared to perfection in a hot skillet, these burgers offer a remarkably juicy, satisfying bite that’s packed with a distinct, delicious taste. Whether you’re a seasoned bison enthusiast or new to this fantastic meat, our comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to create an unforgettable meal that’s both simple to prepare and truly gourmet.
Why This Buffalo Burger Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
This recipe transforms a lean cut of ground bison into a truly irresistible meal. The secret lies in a harmonious blend of ingredients: finely minced red onion and jalapeño peppers provide a delightful textural contrast and a subtle kick, while a robust seasoning of chili powder and garlic salt infuses the patties with a deep, savory flavor profile. These elements work in perfect tandem with the natural richness of ground bison, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
But beyond the incredible flavor, this recipe shines for its inherent health benefits. Ground bison is renowned for being significantly lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol compared to traditional ground beef, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier yet equally satisfying burger experience. And for those wondering, no, we’re not talking about buffalo sauce here! This recipe highlights the inherent deliciousness of bison itself, allowing its unique taste to be the star.
A common point of confusion often arises with the terms “buffalo” and “bison.” While often used interchangeably in America, particularly in culinary contexts, it’s important to note the distinction. True buffalo are native to Africa and Asia (think water buffalo and Cape buffalo), whereas bison are native to North America and Europe. American bison, the species used in ground bison, has been widely referred to as “buffalo” for centuries. This historical context is why we lovingly call this a “buffalo burger,” even though it proudly features ground bison – a lean, nutrient-dense meat that offers a refreshing and juicy departure from your everyday ground beef patty.
Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Buffalo Burgers
Creating these delectable buffalo burgers requires just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the bison and aromatic vegetables to truly shine through. For a complete list of precise measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the key components of these fantastic burgers and explore some ways to customize them to your taste and pantry.
The Patty – Ground Bison: This is truly the star of our show. Ground bison is celebrated for its leanness, lower fat content, and rich, slightly sweeter flavor compared to beef. You can typically find ground bison in most well-stocked grocery stores, usually in the same meat section as ground beef. When selecting, look for a vibrant red color and avoid any packages with excessive liquid. Because bison is so lean, it’s crucial to handle it gently and avoid pressing the burger patty down while cooking. Pressing will squeeze out those precious juices, leading to a dry burger – and we definitely don’t want a dry burger! Remember, this isn’t a smash burger; we’re aiming for a tender, juicy result.
- Substitution Tip: If ground bison isn’t readily available, you can substitute it with extra-lean ground beef (90/10 or higher), ground turkey, or even ground venison. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will differ slightly, and cooking times might need minor adjustments.
Aromatics & Spices: The diced red onion and jalapeño are integral to building the burger’s flavor foundation. Sautéing them beforehand softens their texture and mellows their raw bite, releasing their aromatic qualities. The chili powder adds warmth and depth, while garlic salt brings a pungent, savory kick that complements the bison beautifully.
- Customization Tip: For less heat, ensure you remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For more heat, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Other spices like smoked paprika, a touch of cumin, or fresh cracked black pepper can further enhance the flavor. If you don’t have red onion, yellow or white onion will work, but red onion offers a milder sweetness.
Toppings Galore: While the burger itself is a masterpiece, the toppings allow for endless personalization! Classic choices include creamy mayonnaise, tangy ketchup, or a zesty thousand island dressing. Don’t forget the crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and rings of red onion for crunch and freshness. Pickles are, of course, a non-negotiable for many burger aficionados!
- Cheese Please: A slice of melted cheese elevates any burger. American cheese, Swiss, or pepper jack are all excellent options that melt beautifully. For a richer flavor, consider sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a creamy blue cheese.
- Gourmet Additions: Elevate your burger with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, sliced avocado or guacamole, a fried egg, or even a dollop of your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Bun Choice: A good bun is key! Brioche buns offer a slightly sweet, rich base, while whole wheat buns provide a healthier option. For gluten-free diets, choose your favorite gluten-free burger bun.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Skillet Buffalo Burger
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe with ease. For the complete, printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly. Add your minced red onion and jalapeño peppers to the hot skillet. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and lightly browned, typically 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep flavor. Once cooked, remove the onion and jalapeño from the skillet, leaving as much of the infused oil behind as possible – we’ll use that for cooking the burgers!
- Season the Bison: Place the pound of ground bison into a large mixing bowl. Gently press the meat into the bottom and up the sides of the bowl to create a flat surface. Evenly sprinkle the ground bison with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 2 teaspoons of garlic salt, or adjust to your personal taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed red onion and jalapeño directly into the bowl with the seasoned ground bison.
- Form the Patties: Using gloved hands (this helps with hygiene and prevents sticking), gently combine all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough. Divide the seasoned meat into three equal portions and gently sculpt them into burger patties, about ¾ to 1 inch thick.
- Create the Indent: Take your thumb and make a shallow indent in the center of each patty. This simple trick helps prevent the burger from bulging in the middle during cooking, ensuring a more even cook and a flatter surface for toppings.
- Sear to Perfection: Return the skillet to medium-high heat. If the pan appears dry, add another teaspoon of olive oil. Carefully place the bison patties into the hot skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, flipping them a couple of times throughout the cooking process to achieve a beautiful, even sear and thorough cooking. Avoid pressing down on the burgers while they cook, as this will force out the juices.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Bison Burgers
For ground bison, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety. This temperature should be registered on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the patty. The same guidelines as a ground beef burger apply to this rule. However, many prefer bison cooked to medium-rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C) or medium (135-140°F / 57-60°C) for optimal tenderness and juiciness, much like a steak. If you choose to cook to a lower temperature, ensure you are comfortable with the risks associated with consuming undercooked meat.
Allow any leftover buffalo burgers to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an air-tight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for a quick warm-up, but for best results, reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through to maintain moisture and texture. Avoid high heat, which can dry out the lean meat.
Yes, absolutely! Freezing is a great way to prepare ahead. Shape the ground bison into patties as per the recipe, then layer them with parchment paper in an air-tight container or a large zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before searing, or cook from frozen on a slightly lower heat, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Bison is naturally leaner than ground beef, which sometimes means patties can be a bit more delicate before cooking. If you find your patties aren’t holding together well after forming, a simple solution is to place them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This chilling time helps the fat firm up slightly, making the patties more cohesive. Ensure you’re handling them gently and not over-mixing the meat. If issues persist, a small amount (1-2 tablespoons per pound) of breadcrumbs or a beaten egg can act as a binder, though it’s often not necessary for bison.
Absolutely! Buffalo burgers are fantastic on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates thoroughly. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking, as bison is lean. Follow the same basic instructions for patty formation and cooking times. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the desired internal temperature is reached. Remember to use a meat thermometer for accuracy and avoid pressing the patties.
Elevate Your Meal: Delicious Serving Suggestions
Once your perfectly cooked buffalo burgers are ready, it’s time to assemble your masterpiece! Serve your burger on a toasted bun with your favorite classic condiments such as creamy mayonnaise, tangy ketchup, zesty mustard, a gourmet aioli, or a classic thousand island dressing. Don’t forget the fresh elements like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onion (or for an added touch of sweetness, try caramelized onions!). Crunchy pickles are always a welcome addition. If you’re feeling adventurous and love a spicy kick, you can even top your bison burger with a drizzle of actual buffalo sauce!
For cheese lovers, don’t hesitate to crown your burger with a slice of melted Swiss, American, or pepper jack cheese. Other fantastic cheese options include sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or even crumbled blue cheese for a robust flavor. The topping possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to customize each burger to perfection!
Pair these incredible burgers with a variety of delicious sides to complete your meal. Classic french fries or crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are always a hit. For lighter options, consider a fresh garden salad, a vibrant coleslaw, or a hearty potato salad. Onion rings, tater tots, or even grilled corn on the cob also make excellent accompaniments.
Explore More Delicious Burger Recipes
If you’re a burger enthusiast, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic recipes from our collection:
- Classic Smash Burger
- Flavorful Salmon Burgers
- Irresistible BBQ Bacon Burgers
- Mini Cheeseburger Sliders
- Easy Air Fryer Burgers
- Hearty Black Bean Burger
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Buffalo Burger
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup minced red onion
- 1 jalapeno pepper minced, seeds removed
- 1 pound ground bison
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 3 burger buns
Things You’ll Need
-
Large skillet
-
Mixing bowls
-
Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin
- You can find ground bison in most grocery stores in the same section as ground beef. Because bison is so lean, you want to avoid pressing the burger patty down while cooking or you’ll squeeze all the juices out.
- Optional toppings include mayonnaise, ketchup, or thousand island dressing along with the classic lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Pickles too, of course! You can top the patty with a slice of cheese if desired. American cheese, Swiss, or pepperjack are all good options.
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add red onion and jalapeño peppers. Saute until tender and browned. Remove from skillet leaving as much oil in the skillet as you can.
-
Place ground bison into a large mixing bowl. Press the meat into the bottom of the bowl and up the sides. Sprinkle meat with chili powder and garlic salt (to taste).
-
Add the cooked red onion and jalapeño to the bowl.
-
Using gloved hands, combine all the ingredients until evenly distributed. Divide meat into 3 equal patties.
-
Using your thumb, make an indent in the center of each patty.
TIP – Bison is a leaner meat than ground beef. If you find that your patties are not holding together well, you can place them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes or so to firm up before cooking.
-
If the pan is dry, add another teaspoon of olive oil. Cook in skillet over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per side, flipping a couple times throughout the cooking process.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- You can make buffalo burgers on the grill following the same basic instructions.
- Store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- Freezing – Shape the ground bison into patties and freeze flat in an air-tight container or large zip top bag for up to 4 months.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.