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Juicy bacon-infused elk burgers are the answer when you crave something rich hearty and just a little wild. Mixing sweet smoky bacon right into the lean elk takes every bite over the top. Piled high with more crispy bacon these burgers always satisfy my family’s burger-night cravings especially during summer grilling season
The first time I made these I was surprised how simple it was to keep elk burgers juicy I always thought wild game would be a challenge but bacon solves that deliciously
Ingredients
- Ground elk: rich and lean choose fresh elk for best flavor and chill well before using to help patties hold together
- Hickory-smoked bacon: adds fat and deep smokiness choose a thicker cut for the best texture and flavor
- Worcestershire sauce: boosts savory umami use your favorite brand and check for a rich aroma
- Breadcrumbs: help bind the patties use fresh or panko for a lighter texture
- Salt: brings all the ingredients together I like to use kosher salt for easy handling
- Ground pepper onion powder dried parsley: bring warmth complexity and a touch of herbal note
- Paprika: adds a hint of color and mild depth try smoked paprika for an extra kick if you like
- Olive oil for coating patties: makes for a great sear and helps prevent sticking go for a robust extra virgin if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Fry bacon strips over medium heat until fully crisp You want all the fat rendered and a crunchy texture Set 4 to 5 slices aside to cool before chopping into small bits Save the rest for topping
- Mix Elk and Bacon Base:
- Add ground elk to a large mixing bowl with the chopped bacon Worcestershire sauce breadcrumbs salt pepper onion powder dried parsley and paprika Mix by hand just until the ingredients come together Too much mixing makes burgers tough
- Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture evenly into four balls and gently press into patties about the same size as your burger buns These hold their shape well and will not shrink much during cooking
- Coat and Sear:
- Lightly brush patties all over with olive oil Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat until hot Add patties and cook without moving for 4 to 5 minutes until the first side develops a crusty sear
- Finish and Serve:
- Flip each patty using a wide spatula Cook on the second side until your desired doneness is reached usually 3 to 4 more minutes for medium rare to medium Top with reserved crispy bacon and load onto buns
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I love the hickory-smoked bacon in this recipe because it balances the game flavor perfectly Once my dad who swore he would never eat elk went back for seconds after one bite These burgers won over even the skeptics in my family
Storage Tips
Let leftover patties cool completely then wrap in foil or place in sealed containers in the fridge They stay fresh for up to three days To reheat gently warm in a skillet over low heat or wrap in foil and place in a warm oven
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have elk ground venison or even very lean beef can work Adjust seasonings slightly since other meats may be less robust in flavor You can swap Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce if necessary and turkey bacon if you prefer lower fat
Serving Suggestions
Pile these burgers high with fried onions barbecue sauce or blue cheese crumbles For a bun alternative try wrapping patties in crisp lettuce leaves or serve with roasted sweet potatoes and a fresh salad for a lighter meal
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Cultural and Historical Context
Elk burgers have roots in North American hunting traditions where game meat became a source of pride and resourcefulness Using bacon and seasonings in wild-game burgers helped home cooks balance flavors and keep patties from getting dry so this method has been passed down for good reason
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep elk burgers moist?
Blending crisp bacon and breadcrumbs into the elk helps add fat and tenderness, preventing dryness when cooking.
- → What seasonings go well with elk patties?
Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, dried parsley, and paprika complement elk's natural flavor.
- → Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?
Yes, grilling over medium heat works well—just brush the patties with olive oil first to avoid sticking.
- → Should the bacon be mixed in raw?
No, the bacon should be cooked until crispy, chopped, and then mixed into the elk for best texture and taste.
- → How do I know when they’re done?
Cook the patties about 4-5 minutes per side for medium, or until they reach your preferred doneness level.