Are you a fan of game meats and looking to try something new? Look no further than venison, also known as deer meat. When cooked to perfection, it can be incredibly tender and flavorful. One popular way to prepare venison is in the form of a meat loaf. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just trying out a new recipe, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering venison meat loaf recipes for you to try.
From classic combinations with ketchup glazes to spicy twists with jalapeños and savory pairings with bacon, our collection has something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting, homestyle dish or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of venison meat loaves and providing you with inspiration for your next meal.
Classic Venison Meat Loaf with Ketchup Glaze
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, this venison version is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup ketchup glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned on top.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the ketchup glaze by mixing together 1/2 cup ketchup and 2 tablespoons brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with the ketchup glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Venison Meat Loaf with Bacon Wrap
This hearty venison meat loaf is wrapped in crispy bacon and served with a rich, savory glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground venison
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
– Glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap bacon slices around the meat loaf, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. While the meat loaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
7. Brush glaze over the bacon during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Venison Meat Loaf with Jalapeños
A twist on the classic meat loaf, this spicy venison recipe adds a kick from jalapeños and is perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, jalapeños, egg, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison and Pork Meat Loaf Blend
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic meat loaf, this blend combines tender venison with rich pork for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Venison Meat Loaf
Maple-Glazed Venison Meat Loaf Recipe
Elevate your venison game with this sweet and savory meat loaf recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, maple syrup, cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meat loaf is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 2 tablespoons of maple syrup with 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
6. Remove the meat loaf from the oven and brush with the maple glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Venison Meat Loaf with Mushroom Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of wild game with this hearty venison meat loaf recipe, perfectly paired with a savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meat loaf is cooking, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Add garlic and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the venison meat loaf with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Venison Meat Loaf with Caramelized Onions
A savory twist on the classic meat loaf, this recipe combines tender venison with sweet and tangy caramelized onions and a rich BBQ flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Top with caramelized onions and drizzle with BBQ sauce.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Meat Loaf Stuffed with Cheese
Experience the rich flavor of venison paired with the creaminess of melted cheese in this satisfying meat loaf recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison ground meat
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison meat, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Stuff the center of the loaf with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover the loaf with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the venison is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Herbed Venison Meat Loaf with Rosemary and Thyme
A savory blend of venison, rosemary, and thyme creates a unique and flavorful meat loaf perfect for game lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Meat Loaf with Red Wine Reduction
This hearty venison meat loaf is a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender texture, elevated by a bold red wine reduction. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red wine reduction (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan and smooth top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meat loaf is cooking, reduce 1/2 cup red wine by half over medium heat.
6. Remove meat loaf from oven and brush with reduced red wine. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Red Wine Reduction:
– Reduce 1/2 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot) over medium heat until almost syrupy, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Venison and Wild Rice Meat Loaf
This hearty venison meat loaf combines the rich flavors of wild game with the nutty taste of wild rice, making for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, cooked wild rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Venison Meat Loaf with Hickory
A hearty, smoky twist on the classic meat loaf, perfect for game enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison ground meat
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped hickory wood chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Top with additional chopped hickory wood chips (if desired).
4. Place loaf in smoker for 6-8 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Remove from smoker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Venison Meat Loaf with Cranberry Glaze
A savory and sweet twist on the classic meat loaf, this recipe combines tender venison with a tangy cranberry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cranberry Glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and smooth out the top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meat loaf is baking, prepare the Cranberry Glaze (recipe below).
6. Remove the meat loaf from the oven and brush with the Cranberry Glaze.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cranberry Glaze:
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp honey
Combine ingredients in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
Greek-Style Venison Meat Loaf with Feta and Olives
Elevate your meatloaf game with the bold flavors of Greece! This hearty venison meatloaf is packed with feta cheese, green olives, and a hint of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground venison, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, green olives, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Venison Meat Loaf with Sweet Potato Topping
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, this venison version is elevated by a sweet and savory sweet potato topping.
Ingredients:
For the Venison Meat Loaf:
– 1 pound venison ground meat
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sweet Potato Topping:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the venison is baking, prepare the sweet potato topping by combining mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
6. After the venison has baked for 30 minutes, top with the sweet potato mixture.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sweet potato is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Tex-Mex Venison Meat Loaf with Cornbread Crust
Get ready to level up your game day gathering with this bold and flavorful Tex-Mex twist on a classic venison meat loaf. This savory masterpiece combines the richness of venison with the crunch of cornbread and the spice of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Cornbread crust ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, oats, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until the mixture is evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together cornbread crust ingredients.
6. Press the cornbread crust mixture onto the top of the venison mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Venison Meat Loaf with Blueberry BBQ Sauce
Elevate your game day gatherings with this unique and flavorful venison meat loaf, smothered in a sweet and tangy blueberry BBQ sauce. Perfect for adventurous eaters and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Blueberry BBQ Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meat loaf is cooking, prepare the Blueberry BBQ Sauce (recipe below).
6. Once the meat loaf is done, brush with Blueberry BBQ Sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Blueberry BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup blueberry jam
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Gluten-Free Venison Meat Loaf with Almond Flour
A flavorful and tender venison meat loaf recipe, perfect for those who require gluten-free options.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, almond flour, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meat loaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your game day cooking with these 18 mouth-watering venison meat loaf recipes! From classic comfort food to bold and spicy twists, there’s something for every palate. Try the Classic Venison Meat Loaf with Ketchup Glaze or the Savory Venison Meat Loaf with Bacon Wrap. Or go big with the Spicy Venison Meat Loaf with Jalapeños or the Smoked Venison Meat Loaf with Hickory. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for new flavors to impress your friends, these venison meat loaf recipes are sure to hit the mark.
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