There are numerous species that are hunted for their meat. From deer meat to elk, moose, bear meat, bison, rabbit, quail, pheasant, duck, goose, and various types of game birds. You can slice and cook into stroganoff, or grind into a number of delicious ground venison recipes we will share with you here.
Ground venison, often referred to as deer meat, is a lean and flavorful alternative to beef, pork, or poultry. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or simply looking to diversify your busy weeknight dinners, cooking with ground deer meat offers a new flavor to your plate. (affiliate links present)
Recipes with Ground Venison
Burgers are a classic choice that lets the rich, gamey flavor of deer meat shine. You can mix ground venison with your preferred seasonings, form patties to make Crockpot Salisbury Steak, grill or cook them on the stovetop too. Serve with traditional burger toppings and enjoy a leaner, yet equally satisfying, burger experience.
It’s bold flavor pairs exceptionally well with chili. Use ground venison as a protein base in your venison chili recipe, and let it absorb the spices and aromatics for a hearty, game-filled bowl of warmth and comfort.
Cooking with Wild Game
Wild game meat refers to the meat of animals that are hunted and harvested from the wild, as opposed to domesticated or farm-raised animals. It includes a variety of species, each with its own distinctive flavor and characteristics. Here are some key points about wild game meat:
This type of ground meat, or put into links like Venison Sausage, is known for its unique flavor, and can be a bit intense. It can vary depending on the species, diet, and habitat of the animal so no two steaks from a pair of does will be the same. Often described as very lean with very low fat content, it can be tender if cooked correctly.
- Many types of game meat are leaner than their domesticated counterparts, which can make them a healthier choice. They are often lower in fat and calories while being rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Meats are used in a variety of dishes. It can be grilled, roasted, braised, stewed, or ground into sausages and burgers. The preparation often involves marinating or slow-cooking to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Often associated with regional and cultural cuisine. For example, deer is a popular choice in North America, while game birds and things like turkey necks, pheasant and grouse are commonly enjoyed in European dishes.
Ground Deer Recipes
The availability can vary widely depending on the region and local hunting regulations. It is often found in specialty meat markets, restaurants specializing in game dishes, and during hunting seasons. Like cooking organ meat, it is very essential to handle and cook it properly and to the right temp.
In order to properly kill potential pathogens you should process it correctly, cleanly and always follow this internal temperature guide when cooking.
Overall, wild game meat provides a unique tasting experience, with its distinctive flavors and lean, nutritious qualities. A popular choice among hunters and those interested in exploring different types of protein sources in their diets.
Now let’s discuss a few delicious options using meat from a deer that has been ground. Typically with our Venison Stew Recipe we use bite size stew meat type pieces but you could precook and add ground. If this was the case it wouldn’t take as long to cook to tender with potatoes and carrots.
What to Cook with Venison
You can certainly craft savory venison Meatballs on the Stovetop seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices. Simmer them in a rich tomato sauce or use them as a topping for pasta dishes. The natural lean profile adds a unique twist to this Italian classic.
- Make this the star of your taco night too!
- Use our cow tongue tacos as another example of out of the box food ideas.
- Just season meat with taco seasoning, sauté it, and serve it with your favorite taco fixings.
- The meat’s bold flavor adds depth to each bite.
- Use ground instead of slices to make Venison Stroganoff
Create a rustic venison Shepherd’s Pie with Instant Potatoes with tender vegetables, and gravy inside and a layer of quick or homemade taters and shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake until golden brown for a comforting, homestyle meal.
Venison Meatloaf Recipe works well when you swap out beef for ground deer in your meatloaf recipe. Venison’s earthy taste lends a unique character to this classic dish. Glaze with a savory sauce or ketchup for extra flavor.
Bolognese sauce can be made by simmering ground or diced Venison Cube Steak added in with tomatoes, aromatics, and herbs to create a rich and hearty sauce to pair with your favorite pasta. Adds texture, protein and saves well too for lunch the next day.
Make a batch of our Old Fashioned Stuffed Green Peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of browned meat, rice, vegetables, and seasonings. Bake until tender, and savor a complete meal in every bite.
Ground Wild Game Meat
Embrace global flavors by preparing a venison curry. It’s bold taste pairs beautifully with Indian and Thai cuisine. For an Italian flare you can make lasagna step by step but instead of beef use this on your lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and marinara sauce.
Make your own homemade venison breakfast sausage by blending deer with a mix of herbs and spices. Shape into patties or links for a flavorful start to your day.
Venison Recipes
Quickly stir-fry with an assortment of vegetables and a flavorful sauce for an Asian meal with your family. Serve it over rice or noodles for a fast and satisfying meal.
- Substitute ground venison to create bite-sized burger sliders with a slice of mozzarella cheese on top for a perfect appetizer or party food. Top with your choice of cheese, pickles, and condiments for mini flavor bombs.
- Incorporate into Red Tamales for a lean ground meat twist on this traditional Latin American dish. The tender venison pairs well with masa and spicy sauces.
You could make our Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe with it. Just like ground beef texture but without the added fat. You’d make them the same way, a just leaner outcome.
Remember that venison is leaner than traditional meats, so consider adding a little fat, such as bacon or pork, when cooking to prevent drying out. Additionally, ensure your venison is properly handled and cooked to a safe internal temperature for a delicious and safe dining experience.
Whether you’re cooking venison for the first time or are a seasoned pro, these recipes offer a flavorful journey into the world of ground venison cuisine. Embrace the natural, gamey taste of venison and savor the unique dishes it can create.
Ground Venison Recipes
Equipment
- 1 cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. ground venison
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tbsp worchestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/3-1/2 c breadcrumbs, start with 1/3, if mixture is too wet to form into patties and stay together add a bit more until you can.
- 1 c beef broth
- 1/2 carton mushrooms, sliced, about 1 c.
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 small onion, diced
Instructions
- Put the ground venison in a bowl, with an egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and 4 tablespoons of beef broth. Mix thoroughly. Add breadcrumbs as well as salt and spices. Should form a meatloaf texture that can be formed into patties, may need more breadcrumbs to get to this texture if it is too wet and doesn't stay together.
- In your skillet add 1 tbsp of butter, fry the onion and mushrooms for 5-7 minutes to brown over low medium heat until slightly tender. Add flour and fry for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, over medium heat to create a roux.
- Pour in the beef broth, stir, bring to a boil. Break all the lumps of flour. Shape the meat into patties (about 4 for every pound is good) and fry them in another pan in the remaining butter, about 5 minutes per side, to brown the outsides.
- Pour sauce with mushrooms and broth into the meat pan, (or transfer meat patties into mushroom gravy pan. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for another 20 minutes. Serve together.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.