As the seasons change and hunting season comes to a close, many of us are left with a bounty of venison steaks in our freezers. But what do you do when you’ve got more than just steaks on hand? That’s where slow cooker recipes come in – a perfect way to transform ground venison into hearty, comforting meals that the whole family will love.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering ground venison crock pot recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like chili and meatballs, to international-inspired dishes like stroganoff and tacos, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!
Slow Cooker Venison Chili with Beans
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker chili recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or a hunting trip tailgate party. This rich venison chili is packed with tender chunks of deer meat, creamy beans, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak or ground venison
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, browned venison, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for an additional 2 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crock Pot Venison Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the rich taste of venison with the comforting warmth of marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Crock Pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine venison, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in the Crock Pot.
4. Pour marinara sauce and beef broth over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or as a sub sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Venison and Mushroom Stroganoff
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of venison with earthy mushrooms, tangy cream, and a hint of paprika. Serve over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steaks (such as deer or elk), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return venison to skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Easy Venison Sloppy Joes
A twist on the classic sloppy joe recipe, this venison version is a hearty and flavorful option for hunters and non-hunters alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or slider buns
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve the venison sloppy joes on hamburger buns or slider buns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Venison and Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening, this Ground Venison and Potato Casserole combines the rich flavor of wild game with the simplicity of mashed potatoes. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground venison in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked venison, mashed potatoes, and diced onion.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison Shepherd’s Pie in the Crock Pot
Venison Shepherd’s Pie Crock Pot Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this Venison Shepherd’s Pie is a creative twist on the classic recipe. With tender venison, rich gravy, and fluffy mashed potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steaks or ground venison
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a skillet with the onion and garlic.
2. Add the peas, carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, and thyme. Stir until combined.
3. Place the mixture into the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Venison Taco Soup
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this bold and spicy venison soup that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Venison and Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers
This hearty dish combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with tender venison and sweet bell peppers, making it a perfect meal for a cozy evening. With its rich game meat flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked venison, diced
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in diced venison, cooked wild rice, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the venison mixture and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of peppers and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Venison Bolognese
This hearty venison bolognese is a twist on the classic Italian dish, using tender and flavorful venison instead of ground beef. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion, this slow cooker recipe lets you come home to a rich and savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak or ground venison
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Venison and Cabbage Stew
Warm up with this comforting stew made with tender venison, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks or ground venison
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cabbage, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Return venison to pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and venison is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crock Pot Venison Lasagna
This hearty venison lasagna is a perfect solution for a cold winter’s day. With tender ground venison, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is sure to warm up any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground venison
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground venison in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the venison mixture to the Crock Pot with the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, top the venison mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Arrange cooked lasagna noodles on top of the cheese.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Venison and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty dish combines tender venison with sweet and savory sweet potatoes, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. The crispy hash browns add a delightful texture to the rich flavors of the venison.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss venison with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic over medium-high heat until caramelized. Add venison and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Serve venison mixture over roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Venison Stuffed Bell Peppers
A savory and flavorful dish that combines the tender taste of venison with the sweetness of bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb venison (ground or sliced), cooked and cooled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together venison, breadcrumbs, cheese, and olive oil. Season with 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 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Venison Goulash
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day, this slow cooker venison goulash is an easy way to enjoy tender and flavorful deer meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Venison and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the richness of venison with the deep flavor of black beans and the comfort of enchiladas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked venison, shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine venison, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and enchilada sauce.
3. Arrange tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spoon venison mixture over tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the casserole and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Ground Venison and Cornbread Casserole
Ground Venison and Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Savor a hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of ground venison with sweet cornbread. This satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground venison over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer with the venison mixture, then cornbread batter.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Venison and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, with the rich flavor of venison paired with the earthy taste of lentils. This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steak or ground venison
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, venison, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Slow Cooker Venison Meatloaf
This slow cooker venison meatloaf recipe is a perfect blend of tender game meat and rich flavors. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this comforting dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground venison, rolled oats, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion to the mixture and mix again.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and shape into a loaf form.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Venison and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the rich flavor of venison with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in tender stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked venison, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar 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 mixing bowl, combine venison, spinach, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the venison mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Venison and Barley Stew
Warm up with this hearty and comforting stew made with tender venison, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks or chunks
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and onions)
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the venison in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, barley, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the venison is tender and the barley is cooked.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavor with these 20 delicious ground venison crock pot recipes! From hearty stews and soups to comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try making Slow Cooker Venison Chili with Beans or Crock Pot Venison Meatballs in Marinara Sauce for a twist on classic comfort food. Or go international with Venison and Mushroom Stroganoff or Spicy Venison Taco Soup. Whatever your taste, these easy and convenient recipes are sure to become family favorites.
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