Are you looking for some inspiration to spice up your meal routine with a gamey twist? Look no further! Venison sausage is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. With its rich, earthy flavor and tender texture, it’s the perfect addition to a variety of savory recipes.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering venison sausage recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From hearty skillets and casseroles to comforting soups and pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to get your taste buds roaring.
In the next section, we’ll explore some delicious breakfast ideas to start your day off right. From sausage-stuffed omelets to sausage-topped hash browns, there’s no better way to kickstart your morning.
Venison Sausage and Pepper Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the rich taste of venison sausage with sweet bell peppers and savory spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a camping trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced venison sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the cooked venison sausage back into the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Venison Sausage Breakfast Casserole: A hearty and savory morning meal that combines the rich flavors of venison sausage with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crunchy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison sausage, casings removed
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 loaf of Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the venison sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
5. Pour in the egg mixture, followed by the cooked venison sausage, and top with the remaining bread cubes.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Venison Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto dish combines the rich flavors of venison sausage with earthy mushrooms, creating a satisfying and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Venison Sausage (such as Andouille or Italian-style), sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced venison sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and Arborio rice to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
5. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, stirring continuously, until the liquid is absorbed and the risotto reaches a creamy consistency (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in the cooked venison sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Venison Sausage and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory flavor of venison sausage with the comforting warmth of crispy potato hash.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 venison sausages, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
4. In a large skillet, cook sliced venison sausages over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Remove sausages from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add roasted potatoes to skillet with onion mixture and stir to combine.
8. Serve venison sausages atop potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Venison Sausage and Kale Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of venison sausage with the earthy goodness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced venison sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the chopped kale to the pot and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Return the cooked venison sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the savory flavors of venison sausage with the sweetness of apples, all nestled within a roasted acorn squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 pound venison sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or similar)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh sage or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the venison sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Venison Sausage and Cheddar Cornbread
This savory cornbread recipe pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of venison sausage, making it a perfect combination for any outdoor enthusiast or game meat lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 pound venison sausage, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Add dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in grated cheddar cheese.
5. Arrange venison sausage slices on top of the batter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Sausage and White Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe combines the rich flavor of venison sausage with creamy white beans and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced venison sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the white beans, chicken broth, red wine, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add the cooked venison sausage back to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A unique twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the rich flavor of venison sausage with wilted spinach and a creamy filling. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb venison sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook venison sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, then top with the venison sausage and spinach mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Sausage and Caramelized Onion Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this savory combination of venison sausage and caramelized onions, perfectly balanced on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 4-6 slices of venison sausage
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. Cook venison sausage slices in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. In the same pan, add olive oil and cook caramelized onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
5. Spread cooked onion mixture on pizza dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with cooked venison sausage slices and mozzarella cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Venison Sausage and Sweet Potato Skewers
Experience the flavors of the great outdoors with this hearty, easy-to-make dish featuring tender venison sausage paired with sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cubed
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage slices, sweet potato cubes, red bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or bake for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender and sausage is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Venison Sausage and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavor of venison sausage with the warmth of lentils and a crispy potato topping. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups diced carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the venison sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add cooked lentils, carrots, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Arrange potato slices on top of the filling in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Sausage and Blue Cheese Flatbread
A flavorful flatbread recipe combining the rich flavors of venison sausage, pungent blue cheese, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 venison sausages, sliced
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Brush with olive oil and top with sliced venison sausages, caramelized onions, and blue cheese.
7. Fold the edges of the flatbread over the filling to form a crust.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 30-40 minutes or until dark golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Venison Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender venison sausage and crunchy broccoli rabe. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced venison sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped broccoli rabe. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with broccoli rabe mixture. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Add browned venison sausage back into the skillet, tossing to coat with pasta and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Venison Sausage and Pumpkin Chili
This hearty chili combines the rich flavor of venison sausage with the warmth of roasted pumpkin, creating a perfect blend for a cozy fall or winter evening. Serve with crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the venison sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the pumpkin cubes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Sausage and Herb-Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the rich flavor of venison sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a savory package. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, casings removed
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 large skillet, cook the venison sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the sausage; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Sausage and Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup featuring tender venison sausage and roasted butternut squash. A perfect blend of fall flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison sausage, sliced
– 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add roasted squash, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Sausage and Smoked Gouda Quiche
A savory quiche that combines the rich flavors of venison sausage, smoked gouda cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weekend brunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of venison sausage (4-6 links), casings removed
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and parsley)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cook venison sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange cooked sausage, mixed greens, onion, garlic, and smoked Gouda cheese in the pastry-lined pie dish.
6. Pour egg mixture over filling, then dot with butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 18 savory venison sausage recipes! From hearty breakfasts to comforting suppers, these dishes showcase the rich flavor and versatility of venison sausages. Try pairing them with peppers and potatoes in a skillet, or adding them to risotto and mushrooms for a creamy delight. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and stuffed like acorn squash, or savory and starchy like hash and cornbread, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
