Best Juicy Elk Burger Recipe

I’m obsessed with this elk burger recipe because it transforms a humble weeknight meal into an epicurean adventure with its rich flavor and nutritious twist. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about biting into a perfectly seared patty that’s been lovingly crafted with my favorite condiments and crispy, toasted buns.

I adore making a substantial meal, and this Best Juicy Elk Burger is a solid choice that’s packed with flavor. Ground elk meat mixed with Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and onion powder provides a sufficiently seasoned palette that allows umami-rich elk to shine.

With equal parts beef and elk, the topping of melted cheddar cheese and fresh burger fixings draped over a toasted bun makes this one breakfast you can’t pass up.

Ingredients

Elk Meat: Has less fat than beef, has more protein than beef, and is much higher in essential nutrients, like vitamins and minerals.

Worcestershire Sauce: Contributes a yummy umami flavor that boosts the tasting profile immensely.

Powdered garlic: Delivers an antioxidant infusion with a delicate flavor of earth.

Powdered Onion: Yields a flavor that’s slightly sweet and spicy, perfectly marrying with the meat.

Here are the components of an ideal burger:

Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps create the juicy, something we’ve said in the past and will say again: You want your burger to have a juicy texture.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound ground elk meat
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• Pickle slices
• Condiments of choice (e.g., ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground elk meat, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until barely combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

2. Split the mixture into four equal parts, and with gentle hands, shape each part into a patty. Make the pattys just a bit larger than the buns, since some shrinkage will occur during cooking.

3. In a large skillet or grill pan, over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil.

4. When the oil reaches a high temperature, place the elk patties into the pan. Allow them to cook for roughly 4-5 minutes on the first side without intervention to attain a pleasing sear.

5. Turn the patties over and cook them for another 3-4 minutes if you want them medium-rare, or longer if you like them more well-done.

6. When using cheddar cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking, and cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

7. Take the patties off the heat and allow them to rest for a few minutes.

8. As the patties rest, toast the hamburger buns lightly in a toaster or on a grill.

9. Construct the burgers by setting the elk patties that rested after cooking on the bottom buns. Dress them with lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices.

10. Add your favorite condiments and put the top buns on the burgers. Serve right away and savor your succulent elk burgers!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Spoon or spatula (for mixing)
4. Large skillet or grill pan
5. Tongs or spatula (for flipping patties)
6. Lid for the skillet or pan
7. Toaster or grill (for toasting buns)
8. Knife (for slicing tomatoes)
9. Cutting board
10. Serving platter or plates

FAQ

• What does elk meat taste like?The flavor of elk meat is similar to that of beef, but it is slightly sweeter and much leaner and more tender.
• Can I substitute elk meat with beef?You can use ground beef if you can’t find elk, but expect a flavor that’s not nearly as rich as what you get with elk.
• How should I cook the elk burger for the best results?Ensure juiciness by cooking the patties to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done; use medium heat for best results.
• Is the cheese optional?Adding cheddar cheese is optional. You may replace it with your favorite cheese or omit it altogether.
• Can I grill the elk burgers instead of using a skillet?Certainly, grilling over medium heat is a good way to go. Not only is it a method that works, but it also can impart a delightful grilled flavor, even a smoky one if your grill is the right one.
• What other toppings go well with elk burgers?Besides lettuce, tomato, and pickles, you are able to add flavor with sautéed onions, mushrooms, or crispy bacon.
• How can I keep the elk burgers juicy?Don’t overcook them, and you might want to mix in a bit of olive oil, which helps retain moisture.

Substitutions and Variations

1 pound of ground elk meat—Substitute with ground beef, venison, or bison.
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce – Substitute with soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Substitute with 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Substitute with 1/4 cup finely chopped onion.
Four slices of cheddar cheese – You can use Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or Gouda as a substitute.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Meat Mixture Before shaping the patties, let the seasoned ground elk meat rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps enhance the flavors and makes the meat easier to handle when forming the patties.

2. Indentation Trick Create a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps the patties cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle, ensuring a flat and even burger.

3. Use High Smoke Point Oil If you prefer a different oil, choose one with a high smoke point like canola or avocado oil. This would prevent any unwanted flavors from developing during the searing process in case olive oil begins to smoke.

4. Consider Resting on a Wire Rack After cooking, let the patties rest on a wire rack instead of a plate. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and allows the burger to retain its juicy texture.

5. Enhance Bun Flavor Before toasting, butter the hamburger buns and sprinkle with a little garlic powder or paprika for an added layer of flavor and a crispy texture.