5 Delicious Ground Venison Recipes You Must Try

If you've recently acquired some ground venison or you're simply looking to diversify your protein sources, you're in for a culinary treat. Venison, known for its lean and rich flavor, offers a unique taste and texture different from conventional meats like beef or pork. Whether you've hunted your venison or purchased it from a local butcher, here are five delectable recipes to bring out the best in this game meat.

Venison Chili

This hearty chili recipe is the perfect way to introduce ground venison to your diet. It’s a rich, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed alone or paired with cornbread for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground venison
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat

Steps

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground venison over medium-high heat until browned. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
3. Pour in the tomatoes, beans, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you like your chili hot, add cayenne pepper now.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.

🍲 Note: For a smokier flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce!

Venison Meatballs

Venison meatballs offer a twist on the classic Italian dish, adding a gamey richness that’s both unique and delicious. Here’s how you can make these at home:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground venison
• ¹⁄₂ pound ground pork or veal for added moisture
• ¹⁄₂ cup breadcrumbs
• ¹⁄₄ cup milk
• ¹⁄₄ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ¹⁄₄ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste

Steps

1. Mix the breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl until a paste forms. Let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Add venison, pork or veal, onion, garlic, egg, Parmesan, parsley, and seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture. Combine well, but be gentle to avoid overworking the meat.
3. Shape into meatballs about the size of a golf ball.
4. Heat a skillet with some olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then either simmer in marinara sauce or finish cooking in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Venison Shepherd’s Pie

Transform traditional shepherd’s pie with the bold flavors of ground venison. It’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds ground venison
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ¹⁄₂ cup beef or vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce, to taste
• Fresh thyme, rosemary, or both
• 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed with butter and milk
• Salt and pepper

Steps

1. In a large oven-proof skillet, sauté the onion and carrots until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add the venison, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned.
3. Stir in tomato paste, stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add peas and cook for a couple more minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Top the meat mixture with mashed potatoes, creating a seal around the edges. Rough up the surface with a fork to encourage crisping.
6. Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.

Venison Sliders

Venison sliders are perfect for parties or a casual dinner, offering a lean and flavorful bite-sized treat.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground venison
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped shallots
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Mini slider buns
• Your choice of toppings and condiments

Steps

1. Combine venison, shallots, Worcestershire sauce, sage, salt, and pepper. Shape into small patties.
2. Cook sliders in a skillet or on a grill until they reach the desired doneness, usually 3-4 minutes per side for medium.
3. Assemble sliders on buns with your favorite toppings. Think lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, or even a bacon jam.

Spaghetti with Venison Bolognese

Upgrade your spaghetti night with this rich and velvety venison Bolognese sauce. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground venison
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₂ cup red wine (optional)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream or milk
• Oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Steps

1. In a large pot, cook the onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic, cook until fragrant.
2. Add venison and brown, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Pour in red wine if using, allowing it to reduce slightly.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and herbs. Simmer for 1 to 2 hours to develop flavor.
5. Finish the sauce with heavy cream or milk for a smooth texture. Adjust seasoning.
6. Serve over cooked spaghetti, topped with grated Parmesan.

🍝 Note: For an even richer flavor, consider slow cooking this sauce on low heat for several hours.

These five recipes showcase the versatility and unique flavor of ground venison. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started with game meats, each dish offers a chance to experiment with flavors and textures. The rich, lean venison complements a variety of spices and ingredients, making your culinary adventures not only delicious but also healthier.