โค Table of Contents
Thereโs something about the first sizzle of a burger hitting a hot skillet that transports me back to my childhood. My love for experimenting with flavors began at our familyโs summer cabin, where weโd grill by the lake as the sun dipped below the horizon. I remember one evening when a friend brought venison from a successful hunt, and we decided to try something different. That night, the Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon were bornโand theyโve been a favorite ever since.
Venison has a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet and savory notes, and it was my grandmother who first showed me the magic of combining such contrasting tastes. She was the one who insisted on adding a drizzle of maple syrup, a touch that elevated the dish into something extraordinary. The creamy brie and crispy bacon added layers of texture and indulgence, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors.
โก Smart Kitchen Tools Every Home Cook Swears By
- Instant-read accuracy
- Backlit display for night grilling
- Waterproof & ultra-fast probe
- 17 smart cooking presets
- XL 10L family capacity
- Roast, bake, fry & dehydrate
- 3 sizes for every recipe
- Pre-seasoned & durable cast iron
- Oven & grill ready
As I grew older, I realized that cooking wasnโt just about following recipes. It was about the joy of creating, tweaking, and sharing. This blog, Luscious Recipes, became a platform to connect with others who, like me, find solace and satisfaction in the kitchen. So, grab your apron and letโs dive into the delightful world of these unique smash burgers, where maple, cranberry, and venison take center stage.
Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the ultimate gourmet experience with our Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers topped with creamy Brie and crispy bacon. Learn how to elevate your burger game now!
Ingredients
- Ground beef, 1 pound (454 g) (about 450 grams)
- Salt, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) (about 5 grams)
- Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) (about 2.5 grams)
- Maple syrup, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) (about 30 milliliters)
- Dried cranberries, 1/4 cup (60 ml) (about 30 grams)
- Cream cheese, 4 ounces (113 g) (about 115 grams), sliced
- Beef bacon, 4 strips
- Burger buns, 4
- Lettuce leaves, 4
- Mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60 ml) (about 60 milliliters)
- Garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) (about 2.5 grams)
- Onion, 1 small, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the beef bacon until crispy, then set it aside on paper towels to drain.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with garlic powder and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine ground venison, salt, and black pepper.
- Divide the venison mixture into four equal portions and shape them into balls.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Place venison balls in the skillet and press down to flatten them into patties.
- Cook each patty for about 3 minutes on one side.
- Flip the patties and drizzle maple syrup over each one.
- Add sliced brie to the top of each patty and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove the patties from the skillet once the brie is melted.
- Lightly toast the burger buns in the skillet or toaster.
- Spread garlic mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place a lettuce leaf on each bun.
- Add a venison patty with brie on top of the lettuce.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries over the brie-topped patties.
- Place a strip of crispy bacon on each patty.
- Top with sliced onions.
- Cover with the top half of the bun.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Consider adding finely diced onion to the ground beef mixture for a juicier patty.
- Experiment with gouda or blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Try turkey bacon as a lighter option without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: Unknown
- Fat: Unknown
- Protein: Unknown
Keywords: maple cranberry, venison smash, brie bacon, crispy burgers, cooking method
My Secret to Perfect Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
Why This Recipe Changed My Kitchen Game
The Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon taught me about the power of balance in cooking. The sweet maple syrup and tart cranberries perfectly counterbalance the savory venison and creamy brie. Itโs a lesson in how ingredients can play off each other to create a dish thatโs greater than the sum of its parts. This recipe opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of flavor combinations, encouraging me to think outside the box with every meal.
The Ingredients That Make All the Difference
Each ingredient in this recipe has its own role. The venison, with its lean and gamey qualities, is the star. Maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness, complementing the dried cranberriesโ tartness. Brie melts into a creamy layer, while crispy beef bacon provides the perfect crunchy contrast. Together, they create a symphony of textures and flavors that make this dish unforgettable.
Health Benefits Iโve Discovered
Venison is a lean meat rich in protein and low in fat, making it a healthier red meat option. Itโs also high in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, and zinc. The cranberries add antioxidants, and the whole ensemble is a delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal. Itโs a delightful example of how indulgence and health can coexist on the plate.
Essential Ingredients for Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
My Go-To Ingredient Sources
Finding the best ingredients is key to achieving the perfect burger. I source my venison from local butchers who specialize in game meat, ensuring itโs fresh and ethically sourced. For brie, a quality cheese shop is ideal, as they often have the creamiest selections. Local farmersโ markets are my go-to for fresh lettuce and onions, while dried cranberries and maple syrup can be sourced from organic stores.
Quality Markers I Look For
When selecting venison, look for a deep, rich color and firm texture, indicating freshness. Brie should be soft but not overly runny, with a slight bloom on the rind. For bacon, a good sign is a nice ratio of meat to fat, ensuring it crisps up beautifully. And, always choose pure maple syrup (not the artificial kind) for that authentic flavor.
Smart Substitutions Iโve Tested
If venison isnโt readily available, ground beef or bison are good substitutes, offering a similar flavor profile. Goat cheese can replace brie for a tangier twist, and turkey bacon works well as a leaner alternative. These swaps can adjust the flavor and nutritional content while still delivering a delicious burger.
Step-by-Step Method for Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
My Kitchen Setup for Success
Before starting, I ensure my workspace is organized with all ingredients prepped and ready. Having a well-seasoned skillet is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on the venison patties. I also like to lay out paper towels for the bacon to cool and drain, ensuring it stays crispy. A clean and efficient setup makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
๐ฅ Fresh, Fast & Foolproof โ Upgrades You'll Use Tonight
- Zoodles in seconds
- Heavy-duty, 10 sharp blades
- Keto, paleo & gluten-free friendly
- Meals in ~30 minutes
- 3-Qt โ perfect for 1โ3 people
- Pressure cook, sautรฉ, steam & more
- Phone alerts & live temp graph
- Hands-off monitoring for smokers
- Perfect doneness, every time
The Technique That Changed Everything
The smash burger technique revolutionized my approach to burger-making. By pressing the venison balls into the skillet, a greater surface area is created, allowing for more caramelization and a juicy interior. The addition of maple syrup while cooking adds a caramelized sweetness that permeates the meat, enhancing the overall flavor.
Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
Timing Secrets Iโve Learned
Timing is everything with these burgers. Cooking each side for about three minutes ensures a perfect medium-rare, keeping the venison juicy and tender. Adding the brie just before the patties are done allows it to melt perfectly without overcooking the meat. These timing tricks ensure each bite is a delightful balance of textures.
Perfecting Results for Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
How I Know Itโs Perfect Every Time
When the brie starts to melt over the edges of the venison patty and the bacon is crispy enough to shatter with a bite, I know itโs time to assemble the burgers. The venison should be cooked through but still juicy, with a slight pink center. Itโs these visual and tactile cues that guide me to burger perfection.
Mistakes I Made (So You Donโt Have To)
Early on, I learned that overcooking venison leads to dryness. Itโs leaner than beef, so keeping a close eye on cooking times is essential. Another mistake was not draining the bacon properly, which can make the burger greasy. These lessons taught me the importance of precision and patience.
My Flavor Adjustment Secrets
If you prefer a spicier kick, adding a pinch of chili flakes to the mayonnaise can elevate the flavor profile. A squeeze of lemon juice over the lettuce brightens the dish and balances the richness of the brie. These small adjustments can transform the burger into a personalized masterpiece.
Serving and Storage for Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
How I Love to Serve This
I love serving these burgers with a side of homemade sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad, which complements the rich flavors of the burger. For a casual gathering, pairing them with a cold craft beer or a refreshing lemonade enhances the dining experience.
Food Pairings That Work
These burgers pair wonderfully with a fresh slaw, adding a crunchy and tangy contrast. For a gourmet touch, serve with Crispy Bacon Wrapped Brussels with Maple Garlic Glaze or a side of Venison Jalapeno Poppers with Cranberry Goat Cheese. These sides enhance the flavors and create a cohesive meal.
Storage Tips That Actually Work
If you have leftovers, store the patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the patties gently in a skillet to maintain juiciness, and toast the buns before serving. This method preserves the integrity and flavor of the burgers for future enjoyment.
Recipe Variations and Make-Ahead Tips
Popular Variations Iโve Tried
One variation I enjoy is adding caramelized onions instead of raw, which adds a sweet depth to the burger. For a smoky twist, try incorporating Maple Glazed Venison Sausages with Rainbow Veggies and Crispy Sage into the mix. Each variation brings a unique flavor dimension to the dish.
Make-Ahead Tips from Experience
Preparing the patties and storing them in the fridge allows the flavors to meld, making the next dayโs cooking even more flavorful. You can also pre-cook the bacon and chop the onions in advance, ensuring everything is ready to assemble quickly. These tips are perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, adding pumpkin spice to the mayonnaise can create a seasonal twist. In summer, a handful of fresh arugula instead of lettuce adds a peppery bite. Adjusting the toppings and sides according to the season keeps the dish exciting and relevant year-round.
Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
Nutritional Breakdown and Benefits
Calorie and Macro Information
Each burger provides a balanced meal with approximately 600 calories, 35g of protein, 40g of fat, and 30g of carbohydrates. The blend of macronutrients supports energy needs and satiety, making it a fulfilling choice for any meal.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
Venison is a rich source of iron and B vitamins, crucial for energy production and immune function. The cranberries contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, while the lettuce and onions add fiber and additional vitamins. Together, these elements create a nutrient-packed dish.
Dietary Considerations
These burgers are gluten-free if served without buns or with gluten-free alternatives. Theyโre also suitable for low-carb diets when paired with a salad instead of fries. This flexibility makes them adaptable to various dietary preferences and needs.
Final Thoughts
The journey of creating Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon has been one of discovery and delight. This recipe encapsulates the joy of cookingโcombining flavors, experimenting with textures, and ultimately sharing a meal that nourishes both body and soul. I encourage you to try this recipe, make it your own, and perhaps even share it with those you love. After all, the best meals are those shared in good company. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
FAQs โ Maple Cranberry Venison Smash Burgers With Brie and Crispy Bacon
๐ณ Precision Meets Passion โ Tools Chefs Trust Daily
- Grams & ounces โ precise to 1g
- Perfect for baking & keto tracking
- Sleek stainless steel design
- German stainless precision
- Razor-sharp & dishwasher-safe
- Elegant wood block organizer
- WiFi precision cooking at home
- 1100W โ heats fast & evenly
- Perfect steak, fish & veggies
