The Most Popular 4th of July Dish in Every U.S. State

Colorado’s mountains demand meals with muscle. Enter the bison burger—a lean, flavorful twist on the American classic. It’s been a 4th of July staple here since ranchers began promoting bison as a healthier, heartier, and more sustainable alternative to beef.

Rich in Western heritage and packed with protein, these burgers are often topped with green chile, sharp cheddar, or caramelized onions. You don’t need frills when the meat speaks for itself. On Independence Day, Coloradans gather around mountain cabins or city grills, where the thin air carries the scent of sizzling bison and a sky full of sparklers.