18 Hearty Canned Venison Recipes Delicious

When it comes to cooking with canned venison, many people assume that the options are limited and the dishes won’t be particularly flavorful. But nothing could be further from the truth! With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create delicious and hearty meals using this affordable and accessible protein source. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, we’ve compiled 18 mouth-watering canned venison recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

From slow-cooked stews and chili to casseroles and skillet meals, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy home cooks or those new to cooking with canned venison. So go ahead, get creative, and start experimenting with these 18 Hearty Canned Venison Recipes today!

Savory Venison Stew with Root Vegetables

This hearty stew is a perfect way to warm up on a cold day, and the combination of tender venison and sweet root vegetables makes for a satisfying meal. With this simple recipe, you can create a comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steaks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, parsnips, and potato to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. If using red wine, add it to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Return the venison to the pot and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours or until the venison is tender.

Cooking Time: 1-2 hours

Spicy Venison Chili with Beans

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Spicy Venison Chili, packed with tender venison, beans, and a kick of heat. This recipe is perfect for hunting enthusiasts and chili lovers alike.

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 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Venison and Mushroom Stroganoff

A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic beef stroganoff, this recipe combines tender venison with sautéed mushrooms and a rich sauce, served over egg noodles.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steaks (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Return venison to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until venison is cooked through.
6. Serve hot over egg noodles.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Easy Venison Shepherd’s Pie

Easy Venison Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this venison shepherd’s pie is a twist on the classic beef version. Made with tender venison, rich gravy, and flaky mashed potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook venison, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and flour. Stir until combined, then bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Venison and Potato Hash

A hearty and flavorful recipe perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. This dish combines the rich flavor of venison with the comforting warmth of roasted potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2-3 medium-sized 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. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add venison strips and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
5. Remove venison from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
7. Add roasted potatoes, cooked venison, and thyme to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes

Slow-Cooked Venison BBQ Sandwiches

Savor the rich flavor of slow-cooked venison in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun. This recipe is perfect for game meat enthusiasts looking to elevate their sandwich game.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steaks or shanks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the venison with salt and pepper.
2. Place the venison in a slow cooker and add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the venison with two forks and stir to combine with the juices.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing the venison mixture onto the buns.
6. Top with coleslaw, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Creamy Venison and Wild Rice Soup

This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of venison with the nutty goodness of wild rice, finished with a creamy touch. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steaks or ground venison
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the venison and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Venison Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Experience the bold flavors of the wild with this recipe that combines tender venison with fresh, tangy salsa and crispy taco shells.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Fresh Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the sliced venison to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove venison from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the venison for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled venison into thin strips and placing on a shell with desired toppings.

Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste

Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir gently. Serve immediately.

Venison and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Venison and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

This hearty stir-fry is a perfect way to enjoy the rich flavor of venison paired with the crunch of fresh cabbage. With its bold flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups chopped cabbage (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the venison strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Venison Meatball Subs

Transform your taste buds with this savory and hearty venison meatball subs recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– Marinara sauce, for serving
– Provolone cheese, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls by placing them on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble subs by placing meatballs onto toasted rolls, followed by marinara sauce and provolone cheese.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Venison and Lentil Curry

This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of gamey venison and nutty lentils, slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steak or cubes (any cut)
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add venison and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, coriander, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Return venison to pot; simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until lentils are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Venison Stuffed Bell Peppers

Venison Stuffed Bell Peppers: A savory twist on a classic dish!

Ingredients:

– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb venison steak, cooked and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked venison, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the venison mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top each pepper with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Venison and Cornbread Casserole

This casserole combines the rich flavor of venison with the warm, comforting taste of cornbread, making it a perfect dish for a chilly evening or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cornbread mix and shredded cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the venison mixture, followed by the cornbread mixture, and finally the heavy cream in the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle paprika on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Venison and Black Bean Enchiladas

This recipe combines the rich flavor of venison with the bold taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a hearty dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steak, cut into thin strips
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with venison mixture.
6. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat.
7. Assemble enchiladas by placing a spoonful of the venison-black bean mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
8. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas; top with shredded cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Venison and Spinach Lasagna

A hearty, game-inspired twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender venison and fresh spinach wrapped in layers of pasta and rich cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground venison
– 1 package lasagna noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook venison, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese; heat until melted and smooth.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat mixture on bottom layer of noodles, followed by cheese sauce, and topping with Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with cheese sauce and Parmesan.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Venison and Barley Stew

This comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Tender venison, nutty barley, and aromatic spices come together in a rich and satisfying broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steaks or ground venison
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the water, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the barley is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Venison and Sweet Potato Skillet

A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the tender venison with sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steaks (or substitute with beef or pork)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the venison steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Return the venison steaks to the skillet and sprinkle with thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the venison reaches desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Venison and White Bean Cassoulet

This classic French-inspired dish is a perfect blend of tender venison, creamy white beans, and rich flavors. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the gamey flavor of deer in a comforting, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steaks or ground venison
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the venison in a skillet with garlic and onion; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, white wine, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the browned venison back into the skillet, then transfer everything to a Dutch oven or casserole dish.
5. Top with cannellini beans and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 2 hours, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to warm up with these hearty canned venison recipes! From classic stews and chili to international-inspired dishes like tacos and curry, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make savory meals like Venison Stew with Root Vegetables, Spicy Venison Chili with Beans, and more. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for a cozy night in or a quick meal on-the-go. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these delicious canned venison recipes are sure to please.