Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy grilled bison burgers topped with smoky chipotle aioli, inspired by the adventurous spirit of Fort Collins, Colorado. This american-inspired bbq & smoked ready in about 22 minutes blends ground bison, salt, black pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 American cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground bison with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined and form into four 4-inch diameter patties.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 160°F for medium doneness.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise with 1 tbsp finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp lemon juice until smooth and smoky.
  4. Step 4: Toast 4 burger buns lightly on the grill for about 1 minute. Assemble burgers by spreading chipotle aioli on buns, layering with a bison patty, 1 leaf of lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and 1/8 cup red onion rings. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Colorado-Inspired Grilled Bison Burgers with Smoky Chipotle Aioli?

American bbq & smoked like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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