As the seasons change and hunting season comes to a close, many of us are left with an abundance of fresh venison to enjoy. While some may opt for the traditional methods of processing their kill – such as smoking or jerking – others may choose to cook up a storm in the kitchen. And that’s where ground venison comes in. This versatile and flavorful ingredient can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from comforting casseroles to hearty burgers.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes that showcase the best of what ground venison has to offer. From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and chili, to innovative twists on traditional dishes like tacos and meatballs, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dive into a world of savory, satisfying meals that will leave you wanting more.
Venison and Mushroom Stuffed Bell Peppers
A hearty, savory dish perfect for a chilly evening. Tender venison and earthy mushrooms are nestled inside crisp bell peppers, resulting in a delightful blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb venison steak, cooked and diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add mushrooms and cooked venison to the skillet. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the venison-mushroom mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with grated cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Venison Chili with Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of venison with the warmth of spices and the comfort of beans. Perfect for a chilly evening, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 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
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Venison Shepherd’s Pie with Garlic Mash
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this Venison Shepherd’s Pie combines tender venison with creamy garlic mash and a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 1 lb venison steak or ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mash:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the venison in a pan with some oil until cooked through.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. For the mash, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, cream or milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Top the venison mixture with the mash and smooth out.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Deer Meat Tacos with Fresh Pico de Gallo
Deer Meat Tacos with Fresh Pico de Gallo Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the rich taste of deer meat with a bright and tangy pico de gallo. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground deer meat
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Fresh Pico de Gallo (recipe below)
Fresh Pico de Gallo Recipe:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and deer meat; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning deer meat mixture onto tortillas and topping with fresh pico de gallo.
7. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Venison and Potato Hash with Caramelized Onions
Venison and Potato Hash with Caramelized Onions Recipe
A hearty, savory dish that combines the rich flavor of venison with the comforting warmth of potatoes and caramelized onions.
- 1 pound venison steaks or roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the venison and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to brown, about 10 minutes.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the cooked venison back into the skillet and stir to combine with the potatoes and onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with butter if desired.
Cooking Time:
About 40-45 minutes total cooking time.
Venison Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce
Savor the bold flavors of wild game with this hearty recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison ground meat (deer, elk, or moose)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups rich tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 12-15 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat the tomato sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, remove from oven and add to the skillet with tomato sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time: approximately 40-45 minutes. Serving size: 4-6 meatballs per serving.
Venison Bolognese with Fresh Pasta
This hearty Venison Bolognese recipe pairs rich and gamey venison with the simplicity of fresh pasta, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. The slow-cooked ragù is infused with the depth of red wine and the brightness of tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g venison mince
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pasta (homemade or store-bought), cooked according to package instructions
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the venison mince over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the ragù for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
5. Serve the Venison Bolognese over freshly cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Venison Breakfast Sausage Patties
Kick-start your day with a delicious and savory twist on classic breakfast sausage patties, featuring tender venison and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, oats, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into patties.
4. Add the patties to the preheated skillet or griddle and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite breakfast accompaniments, such as eggs, toast, or hash browns.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Venison Burger with Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onions
Venison Burger with Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onions Recipe
Elevate your burger game with this rich and savory venison patty, topped with melted smoked Gouda, sweet caramelized onions, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4 slices smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. While burgers are cooking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Assemble burgers by topping each patty with smoked Gouda cheese and a spoonful of caramelized onions.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for venison patties)
Venison and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the rich flavor of venison with the nutty taste of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked venison, diced
– 2 cups wild rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (thawed)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In a separate pot, combine the wild rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked venison, cooked wild rice, mixed berries, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Venison Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the rich taste of venison with the sweetness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 4 large zucchinis
– 1 lb venison, cooked and shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the venison, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, cheese, and thyme.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the venison mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Lasagna with Three Cheeses
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this venison lasagna combines tender deer meat with rich three-cheese sauce and layers of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 3 cups three-cheese blend (Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato puree, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large bowl, combine three-cheese blend, Parmesan cheese, and cooked venison mixture.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading half of the cheese-venison mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
8. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese-venison mixture.
9. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Venison and Black Bean Enchiladas
Savory venison meets rich black beans in this bold and flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the venison mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Sloppy Joes with Homemade BBQ Sauce
Get ready for a twist on the classic sloppy joe recipe using venison and homemade BBQ sauce! This hearty dish is perfect for game day gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup homemade BBQ sauce (recipe below)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Homemade BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground venison and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in the garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the homemade BBQ sauce and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
This hearty venison meatloaf recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze that adds depth of flavor. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
6. After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, brush with the glaze.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Venison and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the rich flavors of venison with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steaks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the venison to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potato mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the venison is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Venison Pho with Fresh Herbs and Rice Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this hearty venison pho, infused with fresh herbs and served with tender rice noodles. This recipe is a twist on the classic beef-based pho, using tender venison instead.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups rice noodles
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, basil, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and venison strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until venison is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve pho hot over cooked rice noodles. Garnish with chopped cilantro, mint leaves, basil, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison and Kale Stir-Fry with Ginger Sauce
A hearty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of venison with the earthy sweetness of kale, all tied together with a zesty ginger sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chopped kale to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the venison to the pan and stir to combine with the kale mixture.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and grated ginger. Pour the sauce over the venison and kale, tossing to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some mouth-watering dishes with these 18 savory ground venison recipes. From hearty meals like Venison Shepherd’s Pie and Venison Meatloaf, to flavorful twists on classic dishes like Deer Meat Tacos and Venison Lasagna, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your cooking game with these easy-to-make and deliciously satisfying recipes that showcase the versatility of ground venison.
