Spiced Buffalo Burgers

“I’ve come to really love a good buffalo burger. If you’ve not tried one, I suggest you give it a whirl. The full, rich flavor is to die for, and as an added bonus, the meat is naturally lean.” —Emeril Lagasse

Spicy Buffalo Burgers

(Makes 6 servings)

2 pounds ground buffalo
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Chile Spice Blend for Burgers
2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
1 small onion, cut into ½-inch-thick rounds
Shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese (optional)
6 hamburger buns
Mayonnaise, for serving
Sliced pickles, for serving
Red-leaf lettuce, for serving
Tomato slices, for serving

Cover baking sheet with aluminum foil or waxed paper, and set aside.

Place meat in large mixing bowl. Add Worcestershire and Chile Spice Blend, and mix gently but thoroughly with hands until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form meat into 6 equal patties, placing them on prepared baking sheet when formed.

Preheat grill to medium-high. Lightly oil grate with some oil.
Brush onion slices with remaining oil. Grill onion slices, turning occasionally, until lightly caramelized, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside until ready to serve the burgers. Place buffalo patties on grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn burgers over, place cheese on patties (if using) and top patties with bun top. Cook on second side for 2 to 3 minutes. Place bun bottoms, cut side down, on grill briefly to toast.

Arrange bun bottoms on large platter, cut side up. Top with desired condiments. Slide patties and bun tops onto bun bottoms. Serve with grilled onions.