Smoky Venison Burgers
Juicy smoky venison burgers infused with bacon and herbs, perfect for outdoor grilling enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and hearty bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, chop the venison and the bacon to medium fineness.
- In a large bowl, mix the meat with Worcestershire sauce, salt, dry mustard, thyme, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Divide the mixture into 6 portions and form into patties.
- Prepare the grill by soaking wood chunks in water and heating the coals.
- Toss in four soaked wood chunks onto the coals.
- Position and fill the water pan in the grill.
- Place the grill grate and arrange the patties over the water pan.
- Cover the grill, adjusting vent holes for outside temperature.
- Cook the burgers for 30 minutes, then rotate and flip.
- Continue cooking for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until desired doneness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the meat mixture. If you don't have venison, ground beef or turkey can work well as substitutes. Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if using a different meat. Try adding a splash of hot sauce for extra heat or even some chopped fresh herbs for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smoky venison burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles. They pair beautifully with sides like macaroni-cheese-ham casserole or grilled trout for a complete meal. Consider offering a variety of condiments like barbecue sauce or spicy mustard to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes per side. You can also microwave them, but this may result in a less desirable texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Venison Burgers contains roughly 151 calories, with 7g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What should I serve with venison burgers?
Pair your venison burgers with classic sides like coleslaw or sweet potato fries. You could also serve them alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. For a heartier meal, consider offering baked beans or a kidney bean and vegetable casserole.
How do I know when the burgers are done?
To ensure the burgers are cooked to your liking, use a meat thermometer. Venison should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F for medium doneness. If you prefer them more rare, aim for 135°F. Always let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).