Cheesy Bison Burger Bake

This hearty dish combines rich, savory bison with gooey melted cheese for a comforting twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

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TIME1 hr 10 min

SERVINGS4

RATINGNew

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

Bison Burgers: 4 slices whole-grain bread, processed into fine crumbs ½ onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 ¼ pounds ground bison ½ cup quick-cooking oats 2 eggs 2 tablespoons olive oil Casserole: 2 cups rotini pasta 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

In a bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, onion, ginger, mustard, salt, and curry powder. Add the ground bison, oats, and eggs, and stir everything until well combined. Shape the mixture into four patties.

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Step 2

Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned and cooked through (they should reach 160°F in the center). Once done, transfer them to a plate and let them cool completely.

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Step 3

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite, around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and spread it evenly in a casserole dish.

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Step 4

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spoon the tomatoes and tomato sauce over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top. Place the cooled burgers over the tomatoes, and finish with the rest of the cheese scattered over everything.

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Step 5

Pop the dish into the oven and bake until the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling, about 30 minutes. Let it cool slightly before serving.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use lean ground bison to keep the bake from becoming too greasy.
- Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
- Add your favorite spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines rich, hearty bison with gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. The flavors are bold but balanced, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Serving ideas

Serve this bake with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to add some brightness. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a filling meal.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese melty and the bison juicy. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.