20 Savory Elk Recipes for Hearty Meals
When it comes to game meats, few are as revered and versatile as elk. With its rich flavor and tender texture, elk is a perfect addition to any meal. But where do you start when cooking with this majestic creature? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering elk recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
From classic dishes like grilled elk burgers and slow cooker stews, to innovative creations like elk tacos and meatloaf, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these savory elk recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Elk Steak with Garlic Herb Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this show-stopping elk steak recipe, topped with a rich and savory garlic herb butter. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6 oz) elk steaks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill elk steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter evenly over each steak.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Elk Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can come home to a comforting meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk stew meat (or beef or venison)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the elk stew meat, potatoes, onion, garlic, peas, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Grilled Elk Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with the rich flavor of grilled elk burgers, paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk burgers (1 lb)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced onions and toss to coat.
3. Grill the elk burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. While the burgers are cooking, caramelize the onions by grilling them for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by caramelized onions and your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Chili with Beans and Cornbread
Warm up with this hearty, protein-packed chili made with tender elk, rich beans, and crunchy cornbread. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hunting trip celebration.
Ingredients:
For the Elk Chili:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elk chili according to package instructions.
3. Prepare the cornbread mix by whisking together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir into the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Elk Medallions with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dining experience with this rich and flavorful recipe, featuring tender elk medallions seared to perfection and served with a velvety red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk medallions (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season elk medallions with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear elk for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Remove elk from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
6. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. Pour in red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
8. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until reduced slightly.
9. Stir in butter until melted.
10. Serve elk medallions with warm red wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Elk Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
Experience the rich flavor of elk meat paired with a savory mushroom gravy in this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine elk, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the gravy thickens slightly.
7. Serve the meatloaf with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Elk Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty, flavorful recipe that substitutes traditional mashed potatoes with creamy mashed cauliflower. This elk shepherd’s pie is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized cauliflower heads
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground elk over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the mashed cauliflower by steaming the cauliflower heads until tender. Drain excess water and mash with butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by spreading the elk mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of mashed cauliflower. If desired, top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoked Elk Roast with Rosemary and Thyme
Smoked Elk Roast with Rosemary and Thyme: A Savory Delight
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked elk roast with the aromatic herbs rosemary and thyme, resulting in a tender and savory dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the elk roast in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle smoked paprika over the roast.
6. Remove the roast from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Elk Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the wild west with these mouthwatering elk tacos, paired with a refreshing avocado lime crema. This recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine elk, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into 8-10 patties. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing elk patty onto tortilla and topping with Avocado Lime Crema.
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Soy Glaze
Elk Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Soy Glaze Recipe
A flavorful and savory stir-fry recipe that combines the richness of elk with a sweet and tangy soy glaze, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add elk strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
6. Pour glaze over the vegetables and elk strips in the pan, and stir-fry until everything is coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the rich flavor of elk sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions. Perfect for a cozy evening in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced elk sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the elk sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Bolognese Pasta with Fresh Basil
Experience the bold flavors of the wild with this hearty pasta dish featuring tender elk bolognese, fresh basil, and al dente spaghetti. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk bolognese (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine elk bolognese and cherry tomatoes. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the elk bolognese mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Kabobs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Elevate your grilling game with this unique and flavorful recipe that pairs the rich taste of elk with sweet pineapple and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a summer BBQ or camping trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (colorful), sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add elk cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread elk, bell peppers, and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until elk reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Elk and Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the rich flavor of elk with the earthy taste of wild rice and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the elk over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked wild rice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the elk mixture, topping with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Elk Pot Roast with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting recipe perfect for a chilly evening, this Elk Pot Roast with Root Vegetables is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs elk pot roast
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the elk pot roast on all sides over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped carrots, sweet potato, red onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in beef broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the elk is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Jerky with Maple and Black Pepper
Elevate your snack game with this unique flavor combination that pairs the richness of elk with the sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk jerky, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together maple syrup and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add elk jerky strips to the marinade, making sure they’re coated evenly.
4. Place the marinated jerky on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until dry and chewy. Repeat the process every 30 minutes to ensure even drying.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Elk Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the bold taste of elk meatballs with a classic marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Elk Breakfast Sausage Patties
Elevate your morning routine with these flavorful elk breakfast sausage patties, packed with the richness of wild game meat. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, these patties are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
5. Cook in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Elk Ragu over Creamy Polenta
Savor the rich flavors of elk ragu paired with creamy polenta, a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a cold winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk ground meat (or beef or pork)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups polenta
– 2 cups heavy cream
– Butter or oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook elk ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve elk ragu over creamy polenta, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Elk and Mushroom Stroganoff
This recipe combines the rich flavors of elk with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, all served over egg noodles. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground elk and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
5. Serve elk mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 savory elk recipes! From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and shepherd’s pie, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and stir-fry, there’s something for every palate. Try Elk Steak with Garlic Herb Butter, Grilled Elk Burgers with Caramelized Onions, or Pan-Seared Elk Medallions with Red Wine Sauce for a taste of the wild. And don’t forget hearty stews, roasts, and chili recipes to warm up on chilly days. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for new recipe ideas, this collection has got you covered!
