Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering smoked venison recipes! As the hunting season approaches, many outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike are eager to put their freshly harvested venison to good use. Smoked venison is a game-changer – it’s tender, flavorful, and can be used in a wide range of dishes from hearty stews and soups to savory sausages and burgers.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for new ways to enjoy this lean and delicious protein, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 scrumptious smoked venison recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists and international inspirations, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection of smoked venison recipes.
Smoked Venison Jerky with Honey Glaze
Elevate your snacking game with this unique recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked venison jerky with a sweet and sticky honey glaze. This treat is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup liquid smoke
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 160°F (71°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the venison strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the jerky from the marinade and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
5. Smoke the jerky for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Brush with honey glaze during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Herb-Crusted Smoked Venison Roast
Elevate your venison roast game with this herb-crusted smoked masterpiece, perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked venison roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the venison roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the venison roast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Venison Chili with Black Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with the depth of black beans, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a twist on traditional chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the venison, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Smoked Venison Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory Maple-Glazed Smoked Venison Tenderloin recipe! This dish combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 venison tenderloin (6-8 oz)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips for smoking (hickory or apple work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the venison tenderloin with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the maple glaze.
4. Place the tenderloin in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F.
5. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Venison Sausage with Peppers and Onions
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of smoked venison sausage with the sweetness of caramelized peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 smoked venison sausages
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until nicely charred.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced peppers and onions, cooking for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve the grilled sausages with the sweet pepper and onion mixture.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Smoked Venison Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with a spicy kick, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell and topped with creamy avocado goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked venison, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the sliced venison to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the venison from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked venison onto warmed tortillas and topping with avocado crema (see below).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Venison Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, featuring tender venison smoked to perfection and paired with a medley of root vegetables. The rich flavors of the dish come together in a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the venison, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Smoked Venison Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Smoked Venison Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Transform your outdoor adventures into a flavorful meal with these tender and juicy smoked venison burgers, paired with sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison (cooked to desired doneness)
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Form the smoked venison into 4 patties.
4. Grill the venison patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping with caramelized onions and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes 15 minutes of grilling time)
Smoked Venison Kabobs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Smoked Venison Kabobs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers: A sweet and savory twist on traditional kabobs, perfect for a unique outdoor dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked venison steaks, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a grill with a lid).
2. Thread venison, bell peppers, and pineapple onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the kabobs.
5. Smoke or grill kabobs for 20-25 minutes, or until venison reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Venison Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your game day with these savory smoked venison meatballs, slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Smoke meatballs for 2 hours, or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine tomato sauce and smoked meatballs. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) + 30 minutes (simmering)
Smoked Venison Shepherd’s Pie
Smoked Venison Shepherd’s Pie: A Hearty Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with the classic comfort of shepherd’s pie, resulting in a satisfying and savory dish perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison steak, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add diced venison, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until venison is tender.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Venison Stroganoff with Mushrooms
Smoked Venison Stroganoff with Mushrooms Recipe
Summary: This hearty and flavorful recipe combines the rich taste of smoked venison with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a tangy sauce, perfect for a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook sliced onions and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add smoked venison strips to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, and paprika. Pour mixture over venison and mushrooms in the skillet.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Venison Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the deep flavor of smoked venison with a creamy garlic sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup smoked venison, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add smoked venison to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and butter. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Stir in smoked venison and garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Venison Sliders with BBQ Sauce
Elevate your tailgating game or backyard gathering with these tender and flavorful smoked venison sliders smothered in a rich BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked venison (or substitute with beef or turkey), sliced into thin strips
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, crispy onions, lettuce, tomato
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the venison strips.
4. Grill or smoke the venison for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a few slices of smoked venison onto each bun, then drizzle with BBQ sauce and top with optional toppings (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Venison Hash with Sweet Potatoes
Smoked Venison Hash with Sweet Potatoes: A Hearty Breakfast or Brunch Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying hash perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cooked venison to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine the venison mixture with the roasted sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Venison Goulash with Paprika and Sour Cream
This hearty, smoky venison stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The smoked flavor of the venison pairs perfectly with the rich paprika and tangy sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison steaks or ground venison
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the smoked venison and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 1 hour or until the venison is tender.
6. Stir in the sour cream; serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Smoked Venison Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta
Smoked Venison Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta Recipe
Summary: This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked venison with tender pappardelle pasta, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison, shredded
– 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 thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in shredded venison, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let ragu cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and serve with the venison ragu. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Venison Empanadas with Chimichurri
Elevate your game day snacks or special occasion gatherings with these savory, smoky empanadas filled with tender venison and served with a tangy chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
For the empanadas:
– 1 pound smoked venison, diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
For the chimichurri:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
6. Place a tablespoon of venison in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape. Seal edges with a fork.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. For the chimichurri, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (empanadas), 10 minutes (chimichurri)
Smoked Venison Stuffed Bell Peppers
Experience the rich flavors of smoked venison wrapped in sweet bell peppers, a perfect blend of savory and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison, shredded
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 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 tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix shredded venison with chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the venison mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Venison and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of smoked venison with nutty wild rice, tender mushrooms, and a hint of earthy thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender. Add thyme and cook for 1 minute.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked wild rice, venison strips, and flour. Mix well.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of the mushroom mixture followed by a layer of the venison-wild rice mixture.
5. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of the venison-wild rice mixture on top.
6. Pour heavy cream over the top layer and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 mouthwatering smoked venison recipes! From classic dishes like burgers and stew, to international-inspired flavors like tacos and empanadas, there’s something for every palate. Try sweet and savory combinations like maple-glazed tenderloin or spicy taco fillings. For a hearty meal, indulge in smoky chilies or stews. And don’t forget about the sweet treats – like smoked venison jerky with honey glaze or hash with sweet potatoes. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
