When it comes to game meats, rabbit is often overlooked despite its rich flavor and tender texture. With a little creativity in the kitchen, you can elevate this humble ingredient into a culinary masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory rabbit recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated meat. From classic roasted dishes to hearty stews and casseroles, these recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Herb-Roasted Rabbit with Garlic and Thyme
Savor the rich flavors of this classic roasted rabbit dish, perfectly seasoned with aromatic herbs and pungent garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) rabbit, cleaned and patted dry
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the rabbit, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the rabbit in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let the rabbit rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Slow-Cooked Rabbit with Root Vegetables
Slow-Cooked Rabbit with Root Vegetables: A Hearty Winter Staple
This classic dish combines the tender flavors of rabbit with the comforting warmth of slow-cooked root vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (2 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine rabbit pieces, carrots, parsnips, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Mustard and Honey Glazed Rabbit
This Mustard and Honey Glazed Rabbit recipe combines the rich flavors of mustard and honey to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a special occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze complements the tender rabbit meat beautifully, making it a standout main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) rabbit, cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tablespoons mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, and olive oil.
3. Season the rabbit pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Place the rabbit pieces in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over each piece.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the rabbit is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rabbit Casserole with Red Wine and Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this hearty rabbit casserole recipe, infused with the bold flavors of red wine and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rabbit pieces (thighs and legs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup rabbit broth or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high; brown rabbit pieces.
3. Remove rabbit from skillet and set aside. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until softened.
4. Add red wine, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together broth and flour. Add to skillet; stir to combine.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange rabbit pieces in single layer. Top with mushroom mixture and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until rabbit is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Lemon and Rosemary Roasted Rabbit
A refreshing twist on traditional roasted rabbit, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthy flavor of rosemary for a truly unique dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (2-3 lbs), patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the rabbit, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary evenly over the rabbit’s surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the rabbit in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the rabbit rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Spiced Rabbit Legs with Carrots and Potatoes
Spiced Rabbit Legs with Carrots and Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the tender goodness of rabbit legs with the sweetness of carrots and potatoes, all spiced to perfection.
- Ingredients:
– 4 rabbit legs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the rabbit legs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the rabbit legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes around the rabbit legs.
7. Continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the rabbit is cooked through.
Cooking time: Approximately 50-60 minutes.
Bacon-Wrapped Rabbit with Sage Butter
This recipe combines the tender flavor of rabbit with the smoky richness of bacon and the earthy warmth of sage butter, making for a truly unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) rabbit, cleaned and patted dry
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each slice of bacon around the rabbit, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter and chopped sage until well combined.
4. Place the rabbit on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of the rabbit with the sage butter mixture.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rabbit is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rabbit Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this rabbit pot pie combines the tender flavors of rabbit with a buttery, flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rabbit meat, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for crust)
– 2 cups pie dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook rabbit in butter until browned; add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Stir in flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out pie dough and place in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
5. Pour rabbit filling into pie crust and top with another piece of pie dough (or crust).
6. Brush egg wash over crust and cut slits for steam release.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic and Herb Stuffed Rabbit
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional stuffing, featuring roasted garlic and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 head of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the garlic cloves in a small bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Wipe the mushrooms clean and remove stems. Fill each mushroom cap with the roasted garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rabbit Confit with Crispy Skin
This classic French dish is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Rabbit confit is slow-cooked in aromatic spices and herbs, resulting in tender meat that’s perfect for slicing and serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (2 lbs), cut into 4 pieces (legs, thighs, rack, and loin)
– 1/4 cup duck fat or vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rabbit pieces, duck fat or oil, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.
3. Massage the mixture into the meat until it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the rabbit on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
5. Confit the rabbit for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
7. Remove the rabbit from the confit mixture and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Roast the rabbit in the hot oven for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours + 30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Rabbit with Figs
This recipe is a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. The balsamic glaze adds a rich and tangy element to the tender rabbit, while the figs add natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) rabbit, cut into 8 pieces
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or dried figs, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic.
3. Place the rabbit pieces in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Top each piece of rabbit with chopped figs.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the rabbit is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rabbit and Sausage Bake with Tomatoes
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the tender taste of rabbit with the savory goodness of sausage, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rabbit pieces (thighs and legs)
– 4 Italian sausages
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rabbit pieces, sausages, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are coated with the tomato sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rabbit is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Rabbit Tenderloins
Elevate your game with this elegant and flavorful rabbit tenderloin recipe, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. Crispy Parmesan crust and savory herbs create a memorable dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 rabbit tenderloins
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the rabbit tenderloins with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each tenderloin into the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rabbit Stew with White Beans and Herbs
This classic rabbit stew recipe is a staple of French cuisine, elevated by the addition of creamy white beans and fragrant herbs. With tender chunks of rabbit, rich broth, and comforting texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless rabbit pieces (such as thighs, legs, or shoulder)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add rabbit pieces; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add white beans, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until rabbit is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Maple-Glazed Rabbit with Sweet Potatoes
A sweet and savory twist on traditional rabbit dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (about 2 lbs), patted dry
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the rabbit with salt and pepper.
4. Place the rabbit on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple glaze all over the rabbit, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Roast the sweet potatoes in a separate pan for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
6. Roast the rabbit in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes (depending on the size of your rabbit).
Rabbit and Wild Mushroom Ragout
This hearty ragout is a perfect blend of tender rabbit and earthy wild mushrooms, simmered in a rich game-inspired sauce. Serve it over crusty bread or with your favorite pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rabbit meat (thighs and legs), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup game-inspired broth (or beef broth)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 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 rabbit and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the rabbit to the pot and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Paprika Roasted Rabbit
Elevate your rabbit dish with the rich flavor of smoked paprika, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner. This recipe yields tender and aromatic rabbit with a deep smoky taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lbs) rabbit, cut into 8 pieces (thighs, legs, and breasts)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the rabbit pieces in a large bowl and brush the spice mixture evenly over each piece.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the rabbit pieces in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the rabbit reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rabbit and Leek Gratin with Cheese
Rabbit and Leek Gratin with Cheese: A hearty, comforting dish that showcases the tender flavors of rabbit and the sweetness of caramelized leeks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rabbit pieces (thighs, legs, and shoulders)
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add rabbit pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove rabbit from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced leeks, cooking until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Add garlic to skillet and cook for 1 minute. Stir in cheddar and feta cheese until melted and well combined.
5. In a baking dish, arrange cooked rabbit pieces in a single layer. Top with the leek and cheese mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until rabbit is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of rabbit with these 18 savory recipes. From classic roasts to slow-cooked stews, these dishes showcase the versatility of this underappreciated protein. Try herb-roasted rabbit with garlic and thyme, or mustard and honey glazed rabbit for a sweet and tangy twist. For a hearty meal, opt for rabbit casserole with red wine and mushrooms, or rabbit stew with white beans and herbs. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or elegant, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
