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Juicy Elk & Hickory Bacon Burgers Recipe

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan-seared
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A flavorful and juicy burger made with lean elk meat mixed with smoky hickory bacon, seasoned and seared to perfection.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground elk
  • 1 lb hickory-smoked bacon (1/2 cooked and chopped, remainder for topping)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Cook bacon until crispy; chop about half into small pieces and set both bits and strips aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground elk, chopped bacon, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder; mix gently.
  3. Divide mixture into 4 patties, pressing edges firmly.
  4. Brush patties with olive oil and sear in a hot skillet for about 4โ€“5 minutes per side until a crisp crust forms and internal temp reaches 160ยฐF.
  5. During the last minute of cooking, top patties with reserved bacon strips if desired.
  6. Assemble burgers on toasted buns with preferred toppings and sauces.

Notes

  • Elk is leanโ€”this recipe adds bacon for moisture and flavor.
  • Internal temperature of 160ยฐF is recommended for safety.
  • Preheat skillet for a good sear.
  • Cook bacon ahead so it’s crispy when added.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger
  • Calories: 682 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 1495 mg
  • Fat: 55 g
  • Saturated Fat: 19 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 36 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 39 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg