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A juicy elk burger recipe with melted cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and sweet potato fries on a rustic wooden table.

Elk Burger Recipe – The Juicy & Healthy Burger


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  • Author: Emily Smith
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This elk burger recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy. Made with lean ground elk, ghee, and simple spices like garlic, smoked paprika, and oregano, these burgers come together in minutes and deliver serious flavor. Perfect for busy families who want clean eating without losing the comfort of a great burger.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground elk meat (90–95% lean)
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted ghee
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • ¼ tsp dried oregano

For Cooking & Serving:

  • 1 tbsp ghee or butter (for skillet)
  • 4 brioche buns (or whole-wheat buns)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese
  • Lettuce, tomato, red onion slices
  • Mayonnaise or aioli, optional
  • Baked sweet potato fries or avocado slaw for serving

Instructions

    1. Prepare the Patties:
      In a large bowl, combine ground elk, egg yolk, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, minced shallot, and seasonings. Mix gently with a fork until just combined — do not overmix.
    2. Form the Patties:
      Divide the mixture into 3–4 equal portions and shape into patties. Press a small thumbprint into the center of each one to prevent puffing during cooking.
    3. Cook the Burgers:
      Heat ghee in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook 4–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 140–145°F for medium doneness.
    4. Add Cheese & Rest:

      In the last 30 seconds of cooking, top each patty with cheese and cover to melt. Remove from heat and let rest 3–5 minutes.

    5. Assemble & Serve:
      Layer lettuce, tomato, and red onion on toasted buns. Add your elk patty, a swipe of mayo or aioli if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Elk is lean, so adding egg yolk and ghee keeps it juicy.
  • Always rest burgers before serving to lock in flavor.
  • Swap brioche for lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
  • Great leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American