15 Best Ground Bison Recipes To Try Today

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15 Global Ground Bison Recipes for Every Palate

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Savor the lean, flavorful allure of ground bison with Mangoes and Palm Trees’ 15 best recipes, inspired by cuisines from America to Mexico!

Envision a global feast where the subtly sweet, grassy notes of ground bison transform into extraordinary dishes—American burgers, Mexican bakes, and Cajun rice. A leaner, nutrient-rich alternative to beef, bison has surged in popularity since its mainstream revival in the U.S., notably through restaurants like Ted’s Montana Grill. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we celebrate its versatility, drawing on diverse traditions, including Natalia’s Siberian heritage, to create **global bison dishes** that are healthy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. From our American Bison Burger to Cajun Bison Dirty Rice, these **healthy ground bison recipes** offer vibrant, lean options for adventurous cooks. Explore this hearty collection and dive into more at our Recipes Collection.


Why Ground Bison?

Ground bison, often called buffalo, is a lean protein with ~143 kcal and 2.8 mg iron per 100g, compared to beef’s ~250 kcal and 2.6 mg iron. Its mildly sweet, grassy flavor and lower fat content (7g vs. beef’s 20g per 100g) make it ideal for health-conscious diets, offering high protein and fewer calories. Popular in American cuisine, bison also shines in global dishes, from Italian pastas to Mexican chilis. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we’ve crafted **lean bison meals** inspired by American, Mexican, and Cajun traditions, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Learn more about sustainable proteins in our Healthy Meal Plans (Bon Appétit).

The Global Appeal of Ground Bison

From American ranches to European kitchens, ground bison’s versatility and health benefits make it a star in burgers, pastas, and hashes. Its subtle sweetness pairs well with bold spices like chipotle, Cajun, or Italian herbs. Our recipes offer a **100% unique** approach, blending authentic global traditions with modern ease for dishes that elevate this eco-friendly meat (Serious Eats).


Signature Recipe: American Bison Burger

Start your global bison journey with our flagship **American Bison Burger**, a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* exclusive that crafts juicy, lean patties with a smoky chipotle kick, topped with melty cheddar for a classic yet bold meal.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Chipotle powder1 tspSmoky heat
Garlic powder1 tspAromatic flavor
Cheddar cheese4 slicesMelty topping
Lettuce4 leavesFresh crunch
Tomato1 mediumJuicy topping
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Buns4Burger base

Cooking Method

In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground bison, 1 tsp chipotle powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Form into 4 patties. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, adding 1 slice cheddar per patty in the last minute. Toast 4 buns, then assemble with patties, 4 lettuce leaves, and 4 tomato slices. Serve for an American-inspired dish (The Spruce Eats). Pair with our Grilled Chicken Recipes.

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 30g protein, 20g fat, 25g carbs, 2g fiber, 700mg sodium.


14 More Global Ground Bison Inspirations

Beyond our signature burger, here are 14 additional **ground bison recipes**, each infused with a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* global twist, drawing from cuisines worldwide to ignite your culinary creativity.

2. Italian Bison Meatballs

Tender meatballs with a herbaceous marinara.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Breadcrumbs1/4 cupBinding
Egg1 largeBinding
Parmesan cheese1/4 cupSavory flavor
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Dried oregano1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Basil1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground bison, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 tsp salt. Form into 12 meatballs. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs for 8-10 minutes until browned. Add 2 cups marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil and serve over pasta for an Italian-inspired dish (Slow The Cook Down). Pair with our Healthy Meal Plans.

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.

3. American Harvest Bowl with Ground Bison

Hearty bowl with roasted veggies and wojapi sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Wild rice1 cupGrain base
Butternut squash1 cupSweet vegetable
Brussels sprouts1 cupCrunchy vegetable
Berry jam1/4 cupWojapi sauce
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Garlic powder1 tspAromatic flavor
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 1 cup wild rice according to package instructions. Toss 1 cup diced butternut squash and 1 cup halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt. Roast at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes. In a skillet, cook 1 lb ground bison for 5-7 minutes until browned. Mix 1/4 cup berry jam with 2 tbsp water for wojapi sauce. Combine rice, bison, and veggies in bowls, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (The Gingered Whisk).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 5g fiber, 600mg sodium.

4. Mexican Bison Bake

Spicy casserole with chili-lime crema.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Penne pasta6 ozPasta base
Black beans1 can (15 oz)Protein filler
Canned tomatoes1 can (15 oz)Sauce base
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Tortilla chips1 cupCrunchy topping
Salsa1/2 cupSpicy flavor
Sour cream1/4 cupCreama base
Lime juice1 tbspBright tang
Chili powder1 tspSpicy kick

Cooking Method

Cook 6 oz penne pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, cook 1 lb ground bison with 1 tsp chili powder for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in 1 can drained black beans, 1 can tomatoes, and 1/2 cup salsa. Mix with pasta and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar in a baking dish. Top with 1 cup crushed tortilla chips and 1/2 cup cheddar. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Mix 1/4 cup sour cream with 1 tbsp lime juice and drizzle over the top for a Mexican-inspired dish (Allrecipes).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 45g carbs, 6g fiber, 700mg sodium.

5. American Bison Black Bean Chili

Rich chili with a smoky red wine base.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Black beans1 can (15 oz)Protein filler
Canned tomatoes1 can (15 oz)Sauce base
Corn1/2 cupSweet crunch
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Red wine1/4 cupRich flavor
Chili powder1 tbspSpicy kick
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Cilantro1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion and 1 tbsp chili powder for 5-7 minutes until browned. Add 1 can tomatoes, 1 can drained black beans, 1/2 cup corn, 1/4 cup red wine, and 1 tsp salt. Simmer for 20 minutes. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped cilantro for an American-inspired dish (It’s Yummi).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 10g fat, 35g carbs, 8g fiber, 700mg sodium.

6. Italian Bison Pasta

Fresh pasta with a tomato-herb sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Spaghetti8 ozPasta base
Tomato sauce2 cupsSauce base
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Italian seasoning1 tspHerb flavor
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parmesan1/4 cupGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 8 oz spaghetti until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in 2 cups tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Toss with pasta and garnish with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for an Italian-inspired dish (Seanna’s Kitchen).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium.

7. American Bison Sweet Potato Hash

Colorful hash with a sweet-spicy mix.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Sweet potatoes2 cupsSweet base
Bell peppers1/2 cupCrunchy filler
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Eggs4 largeProtein topping
Smoked paprika1 tspSmoky flavor
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Add 2 cups diced sweet potatoes and cook for 10 minutes until tender. In another skillet, fry 4 eggs until yolks are set, about 3 minutes. Serve hash topped with eggs and 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Miss Allie’s Kitchen).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 30g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbs, 4g fiber, 600mg sodium.

8. American Bison Shepherd’s Pie

Comforting pie with creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Potatoes2 lbsMashed topping
Carrots1/2 cupSweet crunch
Peas1/2 cupVegetable filler
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Butter2 tbspRich flavor
Milk1/4 cupCreamy texture
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Boil 2 lbs peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with 2 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup milk, and 1/2 tsp salt. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1/2 cup peas, and 1/2 tsp salt for 7-10 minutes until browned. Spread bison mixture in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Honey Ghee and Me).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 40g carbs, 5g fiber, 600mg sodium.

9. Italian Bison Bolognese

Rich pasta sauce with a sweet-spicy twist.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Tagliatelle8 ozPasta base
Canned tomatoes1 can (28 oz)Sauce base
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Red pepper flakes1/2 tspSpicy kick
Dried oregano1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Basil1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 8 oz tagliatelle until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Add 1 can tomatoes and simmer for 20 minutes. Toss with pasta and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil for an Italian-inspired dish (Or Whatever You Do). Pair with our Sauce Recipes.

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium.

10. American Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Bison

Creamy mac with a smoky cheddar twist.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Elbow macaroni8 ozPasta base
Apple-smoked cheddar1 cupSmoky flavor
Milk1 cupCreamy sauce
Butter2 tbspRich base
Flour2 tbspThickener
Garlic powder1/2 tspAromatic flavor
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 8 oz elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter, stir in 2 tbsp flour, and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in 1 cup milk, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp salt, cooking until thickened. Stir in 1 cup grated apple-smoked cheddar until melted. Mix with macaroni and bison, then garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Muy Bueno Cookbook).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 45g carbs, 2g fiber, 700mg sodium.

11. American Slow-Cooker BBQ Bison Meatballs

Sticky meatballs with a peach BBQ glaze.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Breadcrumbs1/4 cupBinding
Egg1 largeBinding
Peach BBQ sauce1 cupSweet glaze
Garlic powder1 tspAromatic flavor
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground bison, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt. Form into 12 meatballs. Place in a slow cooker with 1 cup peach BBQ sauce and cook on low for 4 hours. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Steve’s PaleoGoods).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbs, 1g fiber, 700mg sodium.

12. American Bison One-Pot Dinner

Savory dish with grains and greens.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Quinoa1 cupGrain base
Spinach2 cupsVegetable filler
Cumin1 tspEarthy flavor
Cayenne1/4 tspSpicy kick
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 1 cup quinoa according to package instructions. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp cayenne, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in 2 cups spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Mix with quinoa and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Stetted).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbs, 4g fiber, 600mg sodium.

13. American Bison Stroganoff

Creamy pasta with a rich mushroom sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Egg noodles8 ozPasta base
Cream of mushroom soup1 can (10 oz)Creamy sauce
Sour cream1/2 cupCreamy texture
Worcestershire sauce1 tbspUmami flavor
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Paprika1 tspSubtle spice
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 8 oz egg noodles until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, simmering for 5 minutes. Toss with noodles and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Two Pink Peonies).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 800mg sodium.

14. American Bison Meatloaf

Juicy loaf with a ketchup glaze.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Breadcrumbs1/2 cupBinding
Egg1 largeBinding
Parmesan cheese1/4 cupSavory flavor
Ketchup1/2 cupGlaze
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Garlic powder1 tspAromatic flavor
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground bison, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup diced onion, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt. Shape into a loaf in a greased baking dish. Spread 1/2 cup ketchup over the top and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for an American-inspired dish (Fox Valley Foodie).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~300 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 15g carbs, 1g fiber, 600mg sodium.

15. Cajun Bison Dirty Rice

Spicy rice with Creole flavors.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground bison1 lbProtein base
Long-grain rice1 cupGrain base
Bell peppers1/2 cupCrunchy filler
Onion1/2 cupSweet depth
Cajun seasoning1 tbspSpicy flavor
Worcestershire sauce1 tbspUmami flavor
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Green onions1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cook 1 cup long-grain rice according to package instructions. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground bison with 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, and 1 tsp salt for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and cooked rice, mixing well. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped green onions for a Cajun-inspired dish (The Weekly Menu).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbs, 2g fiber, 700mg sodium.


Cooking Tips for Ground Bison

Selecting Ground Bison

Choose fresh, high-quality ground bison with a bright red color. Opt for 90% lean or higher to maintain its low-fat profile, as noted in our Healthy Meal Plans (Serious Eats).

Enhancing Flavor

Pair bison with bold global spices like chipotle, Cajun, or Italian herbs to complement its mild sweetness. Use acidic ingredients like lime juice or Worcestershire sauce to balance its grassy notes.

Cooking Techniques

Cook bison at medium heat to prevent drying out, as it’s leaner than beef. Ensure internal temperatures reach 160°F (71°C) for safety. Avoid overmixing patties or meatballs to keep them tender.


Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation Ideas

Serve bison dishes in rustic bowls with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a global aesthetic. Use colorful platters for burgers or bakes to evoke worldwide cuisines.

Beverage Pairings

Pair with an American craft beer, Mexican mezcal, or Italian red wine to complement the diverse flavors, as featured in our Drinks.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for balance, and finish with our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls for dessert.


Video Tutorial

Master ground bison dishes with this inspiring video, adaptable to our global recipes for perfect results.


Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Bison Different from Beef?

Bison is leaner, with less fat and fewer calories than beef, offering a mildly sweet, grassy flavor and higher iron content, ideal for healthy diets.

Is Bison Sustainable?

Yes, bison farming often supports sustainable practices, as bison require less land and resources than cattle, making it an eco-friendly choice.

How Can I Keep Bison Juicy?

Cook at medium heat, avoid overmixing, and add moisture with sauces or broths, as seen in our recipes like Bison Bolognese.

Can These Recipes Use Other Meats?

Yes, beef or turkey can substitute, but bison’s leanness and flavor make it unique. Explore alternatives in our Vegetarian Recipes.

Which Global Bison Dish Will You Try First?

American Bison Burger Mexican Bison Bake Cajun Bison Dirty Rice

Vote and share your global creation on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees!


Conclusion

These **15 best ground bison recipes** from *Mangoes and Palm Trees* transform the lean, nutrient-rich bison into a global culinary celebration, from American Bison Burger to Cajun Bison Dirty Rice. With unique recipes drawing on worldwide traditions, these **global bison dishes** offer healthy, flavorful, and versatile options for dinners, lunches, or gatherings. Experiment with global spices and sustainable proteins, share your creations on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees, and explore more at our Recipes or Desserts. Discover your culinary style at our Personality Quiz Hub. Bon appétit!

We’d Love to Hear From You! Thank you for visiting Mangoes and Palm Trees! Please keep comments kind and respectful—happy commenting! 😊

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