Are you a game lover looking to try something new? Elk steak is a delicious and lean alternative to traditional beef, and it’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for a unique culinary experience, elk steak is definitely worth trying. In this article, we’ll explore 20 savory elk steak recipes that are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic grilled elk steak with garlic butter to more adventurous options like smoked elk steak with juniper rub, there’s something for everyone on this list. We’ll also be sharing some creative twists on traditional dishes, like elk steak tacos with avocado salsa and elk steak stir-fry with ginger and soy. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some delicious elk steaks!
Grilled Elk Steak with Garlic Butter
Elevate your summer grilling game with this mouthwatering Grilled Elk Steak recipe, featuring a rich garlic butter compound. Perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the elk steak with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Grill the elk steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
– Adjust cooking time based on elk steak thickness and personal preference.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa salad.
Pan-Seared Elk Steak with Rosemary
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender pan-seared elk steak recipe, infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.
4. Sear the elk steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steaks from the skillet and place on a plate.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the top of each steak.
7. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Medium-rare: 4-5 minutes total
– Rare: 3-4 minutes total
– Medium: 5-6 minutes total
Elk Steak with Red Wine Reduction
Savor the rich flavors of the wild with this tender and juicy elk steak recipe, elevated by a rich red wine reduction. Perfect for special occasions or a unique dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk steaks for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. While the elk is cooking, reduce red wine on low heat in a small saucepan until it’s almost syrupy, stirring occasionally (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Remove elk from the oven and top each steak with a pat of butter and spoon some of the reduced red wine over the top.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes total
Smoked Elk Steak with Juniper Rub
Elevate your game day or dinner party with this bold and savory smoked elk steak recipe, infused with the earthy flavor of juniper berries. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup juniper berry rub (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of smoking wood, such as hickory or apple)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
Juniper Berry Rub:
– 2 tbsp juniper berries, crushed
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season elk steaks with juniper berry rub.
3. Place wood chips in smoker and let it heat up for 15 minutes.
4. Add elk steaks to smoker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
5. Let steaks rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Steak and Mushroom Stroganoff
Elk Steak and Mushroom Stroganoff Recipe
Summary:
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of elk steak with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the elk steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add another tbsp olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Slice the elk steak against the grain and serve with the mushroom stroganoff sauce over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Elk Steak with Cajun Spices
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana on a plate with this recipe for blackened elk steak, perfectly seasoned with cajun spices. Pan-seared to perfection, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6-ounce) elk steaks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning blend, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the elk steaks.
4. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Elk Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with the bold flavor of elk steak, paired with creamy avocado salsa and crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add elk steak to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove elk from marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled elk, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve immediately.
Slow-Cooked Elk Steak in Bourbon Sauce
Slow-Cooked Elk Steak in Bourbon Sauce Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful slow-cooked elk steak dish smothered in a tangy bourbon sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds elk steaks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook elk steaks over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned. Remove from heat.
3. Add sliced onion, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and brown sugar to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until onions are translucent.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the elk steaks, bourbon whiskey, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Elk Steak with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe, pairing tender elk steak with a rich blueberry balsamic glaze. This unique combination is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill elk steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Brush glaze over elk steak during the last minute of cooking.
6. Let elk rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Steak Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk steak with the spicy warmth of ginger and the savory depth of soy sauce, creating a harmonious balance of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the elk steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the elk from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Return the elk steak to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors are well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Elk Steak Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
This hearty salad combines the rich flavor of elk steak with the tangy sweetness of pomegranate, making for a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Pomegranate Dressing (recipe below)
Pomegranate Dressing:
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season elk steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled elk into thin strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle Pomegranate Dressing over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Elk Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions Recipe
A classic combination of tender elk steak and sweet caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak (6 oz per serving)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 baguette slices
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season elk steak with salt; let it sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
3. Cook elk steak in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in a separate skillet over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add olive oil and garlic; continue to cook until caramelized.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked elk steak on baguette slices, followed by caramelized onions and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Elk Steak Kebabs with Chimichurri
Savor the bold flavors of elk steak paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for grilling season. This recipe combines the richness of game meat with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add elk steak cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread 2-3 elk steak cubes onto each skewer.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Meanwhile, combine remaining marinade ingredients in a small bowl. Serve chimichurri sauce alongside grilled kebabs.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Elk Steak with Creamy Horseradish Sauce
Elk Steak with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe: A Rich and Savory Delight
This recipe pairs the bold flavor of elk steak with a creamy horseradish sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. The combination of gamey elk and tangy horseradish is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6-ounce) elk steaks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook elk steaks for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine heavy cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Serve elk steak with creamy horseradish sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Steak and Root Vegetable Stew
This rich and flavorful stew combines the bold flavor of elk steak with a medley of root vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the elk steak cubes in batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, parsnips, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the browned elk steak back into the pot along with beef broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 1.5 hours or until the elk is cooked through and the stew has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2.5 hours (including browning the elk)
Elk Steak with Wild Mushroom Ragout
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory elk steak paired with a flavorful wild mushroom ragout. The bold flavors of the elk are perfectly complemented by the earthy tones of the mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Transfer to a baking sheet and finish cooking in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, and thyme. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Serve elk steaks with wild mushroom ragout spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Steak Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Experience the bold flavor of elk steak paired with sautéed peppers and onions, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the elk steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced peppers and onions. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the fajitas by placing some of the elk steak and pepper mixture onto each tortilla, then add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Elk Steak with Peppercorn Cream Sauce
Elk Steak with Peppercorn Cream Sauce: A rich and savory dish that elevates the natural flavors of elk steak to new heights.
This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp peppercorns, freshly ground
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the elk steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Transfer to a baking sheet and finish cooking in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add ground peppercorns and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the elk steaks with the peppercorn cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Steak and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful combination of tender elk steak and crispy sweet potato hash, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: any desired herbs or spices for the steak
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
4. Grill or pan-sear elk steaks to desired level of doneness (6-8 minutes per side).
5. Serve elk steak atop sweet potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Sweet potato hash: 25-30 minutes; Elk steak: 12-16 minutes
Elk Steak with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful combination of tender elk steak and creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 2-3 large cloves of garlic
– 2-3 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic: Cut the top off each clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Mashed potatoes: Boil cubed potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Add roasted garlic to mashed potatoes and mix well.
5. Grill or pan-fry elk steaks to desired doneness (medium-rare recommended). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side.
6. Serve elk steak with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavor of elk steak with these 20 savory recipe ideas. From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to bold international flavors and comforting comfort food, there’s something for every game lover. Try grilling your elk steak with garlic butter or searing it with rosemary, or go global with a Cajun-inspired blackened elk steak. Other options include slow-cooked elk steak in bourbon sauce, elk steak tacos with avocado salsa, and many more. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for new ways to enjoy game meat, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
