When it comes to game meats, elk steak is a prized possession for many hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. With its rich flavor and tender texture, elk steak is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways to suit any taste. From classic grilled or pan-seared preparations to more adventurous dishes like tacos or stir-fries, the possibilities are endless when it comes to elk steak recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 savory elk steak recipes that showcase the best of game cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for a new culinary challenge, these recipes will provide inspiration and guidance for creating mouth-watering meals that feature the star of the show: elk steak.
Grilled Elk Steak with Garlic Herb Butter
A flavorful and tender grilled elk steak is elevated by a rich garlic herb butter, making it a perfect dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season elk steak with salt and pepper.
4. Grill elk steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter on top of the elk steak.
6. Let elk steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Elk Steak with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe that showcases the bold flavor of elk steak. Pan-searing to perfection, then finishing with a reduction of red wine, adds depth and complexity to this impressive main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over high heat.
2. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add oil to the preheated skillet and sear elk for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Remove elk from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add red wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Bring wine to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until reduced by half.
7. Stir in beef broth and butter until smooth.
8. Serve elk steaks with the rich red wine reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Elk Steak with Mushroom and Onion Gravy
Elk Steak with Mushroom and Onion Gravy Recipe
Summary:
Experience the rich flavor of elk steak paired with a savory mushroom and onion gravy, perfect for a hearty dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk steak, trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. In the same skillet, cook onion and mushrooms over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Add garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Simmer gravy for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Serve over roasted elk steak.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Elk Steak with Rosemary and Thyme
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked elk steak with the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme, creating a truly decadent dish. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique twist on traditional grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked elk steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the elk steak.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the elk steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total.
Elk Steak Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
A bold twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the rich flavor of elk steak with the creamy freshness of avocado lime crema. Perfect for adventurous eaters and taco lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak (6 oz per serving), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add elk steak to the marinade; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove elk from marinade; cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled elk into thin strips and serving with Avocado Lime Crema and desired toppings.
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling time varies depending on desired level of doneness)
Elk Steak Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This hearty stir-fry combines tender elk steak with a colorful medley of vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Savor the bold flavors of this wild game dish, cooked to perfection in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and broccoli; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add elk steak strips; cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Elk Steak and Blue Cheese Salad
Experience the rich flavor of elk steak paired with the pungency of blue cheese, all wrapped up in a refreshing salad.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs elk steak, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season elk steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blue cheese, red onion, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Toss salad with dressing, then top with sliced elk steak.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling time plus rest period)
Slow-Cooked Elk Steak with Root Vegetables
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow-cooked elk steak recipe pairs tender meat with flavorful root vegetables, all in one easy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 lbs elk steak (depending on size and number of servings)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the elk steak on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise the elk steak and vegetables for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Elk Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions: A savory twist on a classic sandwich, this recipe combines the bold flavor of elk steak with sweet and tangy caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season elk steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill elk steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled elk steak on hamburger buns and topping with caramelized onions.
6. Add lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Elk Steak Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of South America with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines tender elk steak with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread elk steak cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush both sides of the kebabs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
6. Serve chimichurri sauce over grilled elk steak kebabs.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Elk Steak with Cajun Spices
Elevate your steak game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of elk with the spicy kick of Cajun seasonings. This dish is sure to impress your dinner guests!
Ingredients:
– 1-2 elk steaks (depending on size and number of servings)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or grill to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the elk steak with softened butter.
4. Sprinkle Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
5. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached (medium-rare to medium).
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Elk Steak Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Add a twist to traditional fajitas with the rich flavor of elk steak. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the elk steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the fajitas by slicing the elk steak into thin strips and adding it to the tortillas with the sautéed peppers and onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Steak with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and savory recipe, perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Pan-seared elk steak is paired with a rich balsamic glaze, creating a harmonious balance of bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season elk steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear elk steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve elk steaks with balsamic glaze spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (including glaze reduction)
Elk Steak and Wild Rice Pilaf
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk steak with the earthy goodness of wild rice, perfect for a game day gathering or a special occasion. The pilaf’s nutty aroma and chewy texture complement the tender elk nicely.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak (6 oz per serving)
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear elk for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, mushrooms, and thyme to the skillet; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Stir in cooked wild rice and cook for 1 minute.
6. Serve elk steak atop pilaf and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Elk Steak: 10-12 minutes total; Pilaf: 15-20 minutes.
Elk Steak with Horseradish Cream Sauce
Elk Steak with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and flavorful elk steak recipe, perfectly complemented by a tangy horseradish cream sauce. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) elk steak
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the elk steak with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat a skillet over high heat and sear the elk steak for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Finish cooking in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Meanwhile, combine heavy cream, horseradish, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
5. Serve the elk steak with the horseradish cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time:
Total cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Elk steak cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Elk Steak and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful combination of tender elk steak and crispy potato hash, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the potato mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Roast the potato hash for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
6. Grill or pan-fry the elk steaks to desired doneness (medium-rare recommended).
7. Serve the elk steak with the roasted potato hash and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Elk steak: 4-5 minutes per side, Potato hash: 20-25 minutes
Elk Steak with Cranberry Port Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the American wilderness with this unique elk steak recipe, paired with a sweet and tangy cranberry port sauce. The rich game meat is perfectly complemented by the fruity and slightly sweet accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, port wine, honey, and mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until cranberries pop and sauce thickens.
3. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or cook elk steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Serve elk steaks with warm cranberry port sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Steak and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A savory and flavorful stir-fry that pairs the bold taste of elk steak with the tender crunch of asparagus, all in a quick and easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak (6 oz per serving)
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add oil, then elk steak; cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Transfer to plate and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and asparagus; cook 3-4 minutes, or until asparagus tender but still crisp.
4. Add soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Slice elk steak against grain and combine with asparagus mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Elk Steak with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this hearty recipe featuring tender elk steak paired with rich roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, cut into 1-inch thick strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cloves of garlic, separated from their skins
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook elk steak: Season with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until medium-rare.
4. Prepare mashed potatoes: Boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with roasted garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir in chicken broth to desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Roasting garlic: 30 minutes
– Cooking elk steak: 8-12 minutes total
– Preparing mashed potatoes: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Slice elk steak against the grain and serve with roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Elk Steak and Brussels Sprouts Skillet
Experience the bold flavors of the great outdoors with this hearty skillet dish featuring tender elk steak and caramelized Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into 1-inch thick strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the elk steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the Brussels sprouts and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the sprouts are caramelized and tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Return the elk steak to the skillet and pour in chicken broth.
8. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of game meat with these 20 savory elk steak recipes. From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to international-inspired tacos and stir-fries, there’s something for every palate. Try grilling elk steak with garlic herb butter, or searing it with a red wine reduction. For a twist, try smoking elk steak with rosemary and thyme, or serving it in a salad with blue cheese and root vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned game hunter or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to please.
