When it comes to game meats, venison is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. With its rich flavor and tender texture, venison can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit any palate. From hearty stews and braises to quick and easy skillet meals, there’s no shortage of delicious recipes to try.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory venison recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for a unique twist on traditional beef or pork dishes, these recipes have something for everyone. From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and meatloaf, to international flavors like tacos and stir-fry, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Slow-Cooked Venison Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, and the slow-cooking process allows the rich flavors of the venison to meld beautifully with the root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak or shanks
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, brown the venison on all sides with some oil. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato to the slow cooker.
4. Add the browned venison, beef broth, red wine (if using), garlic, and thyme to the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Grilled Venison Steak with Garlic Butter
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with this mouthwatering venison steak recipe, perfectly seasoned and smothered in a rich garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Brush the venison steaks with the garlic butter mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Grill the venison steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Venison Chili with Beans and Spices
Warm up with this hearty venison chili recipe that combines tender deer meat, flavorful beans, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the venison over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the water to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Venison Medallions with Red Wine Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of this elegant dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Pan-searing venison medallions and serving them with a bold red wine sauce creates a harmonious balance of gamey and fruity notes.
Ingredients:
– 4 venison medallions (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season venison medallions with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear venison medallions for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. While the venison is cooking, combine red wine, beef broth, and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in garlic and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve pan-seared venison medallions with the red wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of venison with the earthy taste of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook venison strips in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to plate.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return venison to the skillet; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in sour cream. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Venison Jerky with Black Pepper
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with a bold kick from black pepper, creating a savory and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison jerky (pre-processed or fresh)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 160°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place the venison jerky in the smoker and close the lid.
4. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the venison reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Remove the jerky from the smoker and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Venison Meatloaf with Bacon Wrap
Elevate your game day with this hearty and flavorful venison meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap each half of bacon around the meatloaf, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Venison Shanks with Rosemary
This hearty dish showcases the rich flavor of venison, perfectly complemented by the earthy aroma of rosemary. With minimal prep and gentle cooking, this recipe yields tender, fall-apart meat in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 venison shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the venison shanks, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic and rosemary; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add wine, broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits from bottom of pot.
5. Return venison shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Venison Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Savory venison sausage pairs perfectly with sweet bell peppers in this hearty skillet dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or camping trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Return the venison sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the peppers and onions.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This venison shepherd’s pie combines tender game meat with creamy mashed potatoes and a crispy top layer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Butter for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. In a separate pot, boil the chopped potatoes until tender. Drain excess water and mash with milk or heavy cream.
5. Transfer the venison mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Venison Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the wild with these tender venison tacos, perfectly balanced by a creamy avocado lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak (such as deer or elk)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the venison steak with the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the Avocado Lime Crema by mashing the avocados in a bowl and stirring in lime juice, salt, and cilantro.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing the venison steak thinly and placing it on a warmed tortilla with a dollop of Avocado Lime Crema.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Venison Bolognese Pasta Sauce
This hearty venison bolognese pasta sauce recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, substituting tender venison for traditional ground beef. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, it’s easy to make and packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steaks, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or rigatoni)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped venison, cooking until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and basil. Stir to combine.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Serve with venison bolognese sauce and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Venison Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with this hearty and flavorful recipe that combines the rich taste of venison with sweet, caramelized onions. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, form the ground venison into 4 patties. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the venison burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble the burgers by spreading a spoonful of caramelized onions on each patty, then adding lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you like.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Venison Pot Roast with Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of a hearty venison pot roast, slow-cooked to tender perfection and served with a savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs venison roast (such as deer or elk), cut into large chunks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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. Brown the venison chunks in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return browned venison to the pot, making sure it’s covered with liquid.
7. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Gravy:
1. Skim off excess fat from pot juices.
2. Stir in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour to thicken.
3. Simmer over medium heat, about 5 minutes, or until desired consistency is reached.
Serve the tender venison with the rich and savory gravy spooned on top.
Venison Stir-Fry with Asian Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this quick and delicious venison stir-fry recipe, featuring tender deer meat paired with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips (any color)
– 2 cups snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and snow peas to the pan; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return venison to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Venison Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
Savor the rich flavor of wild game with this hearty dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison ground meat
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison meat, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into 20-25 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. While the meatballs bake, heat tomato sauce and basil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat with sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Venison and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty and savory casserole that combines the rich flavors of venison with the nutty taste of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked venison, diced
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced venison in butter until browned.
3. Add wild rice, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Kabobs with Bell Peppers and Onions
Savor the bold flavors of venison paired with the natural sweetness of bell peppers and onions, all on a skewer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks (such as deer or elk), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread venison cubes, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until venison reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into the rich flavors of venison with these 18 savory recipes! From slow-cooked stews and braises to grilled steaks and pan-seared medallions, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making a hearty venison chili or meatloaf, or go international with dishes like Venison Stir-Fry with Asian Vegetables or Venison Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema. With these mouth-watering recipes, you’ll never tire of the gamey goodness of venison. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, this collection has got you covered!
