Get ready to sink your teeth into some delicious and hearty meals with these 20 mouth-watering elk recipes! Elk, also known as wapiti, is a lean and flavorful game meat that’s perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their culinary repertoire. With its rich, beef-like flavor profile, elk pairs well with a wide range of ingredients and cooking methods. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of savory elk recipes.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of elk cuisine, exploring everything from tender grilled steaks to rich stews and comforting casseroles. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and let’s get cooking with some of our favorite elk recipes!
Grilled Elk Steak with Garlic Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of elk steak with a savory garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and parsley until well combined.
3. Season elk steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill elk steaks for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each steak.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Slow Cooker Elk Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a cold day with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker stew, featuring tender elk and a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless elk roast or ground elk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add elk and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker with the browned elk.
5. Add beef broth and red wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Elk Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with the rich flavor of elk and sweet, caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings
Caramelized Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine elk, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill elk burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble burgers with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time:
– Elk burgers: 8-10 minutes total
– Caramelized onions: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Elk Medallions with Red Wine Sauce
A classic combination of tender elk medallions and rich red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk medallions
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and elk medallions. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned to your liking.
2. Remove the elk from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and butter to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Return the elk medallions to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the elk is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Chili with Beans and Spices
Elk Chili with Beans and Spices Recipe
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the rich taste of elk with the comfort of beans and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the elk in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and water to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Elk Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
This hearty elk meatloaf recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to mix things up from traditional beef or pork options. The addition of sautéed mushrooms and a rich gravy elevates this dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, oats, cheese, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands 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 meatloaf is baking, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender. Add beef broth and simmer until reduced by half.
6. Serve the meatloaf with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Elk Shanks with Rosemary
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. Tender elk shanks fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and red wine.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 elk shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season elk shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown elk shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove browned elk from pot and set aside.
5. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add garlic, rosemary, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
7. Return elk shanks to pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
8. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until elk is tender and falls-off-the-bone.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Tacos with Fresh Pico de Gallo
Experience the bold flavors of the wild west with these tender elk tacos, perfectly balanced by a burst of fresh pico de gallo. This recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk ground meat
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pico de gallo (recipe below)
Pico de Gallo:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the elk ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the elk mixture onto a warmed tortilla, then topping with fresh pico de gallo.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Elk Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
Elk Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a cold winter evening, this Elk Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes combines the rich flavor of elk with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground elk 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 continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Transfer the elk mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the elk mixture.
8. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Mashed Potato Recipe:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Boil the potato pieces in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with a fork. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and mix until smooth.
Elk Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Soy Sauce
A flavorful and savory stir-fry dish that combines the rich taste of elk with the sweetness of bell peppers, all tied together with a hint of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk strips
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the elk strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Return the elk strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Elk Roast with Herb Rub
Elevate your game day or special occasion with this succulent smoked elk roast, infused with a savory herb rub.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lb elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the elk roast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Elk Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish perfect for a chilly evening, featuring elk sausage, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the elk sausage and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until potatoes are slightly tender.
5. Return the elk sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings (such as garlic powder or paprika).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Kabobs with Cherry Glaze
Savor the bold flavor of elk paired with sweet and tangy cherry glaze, perfectly balanced on skewers for a memorable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 1 cup cherry glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add elk cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread elk, mixed vegetables, and cherry glaze onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until elk reaches desired doneness.
5. Brush with remaining cherry glaze during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Bolognese Pasta Sauce
This hearty elk bolognese pasta sauce is a gamey twist on the classic Italian favorite, perfect for a cold winter’s night. Rich and flavorful, this sauce is sure to warm your belly and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground elk, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Cook until the elk is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the red wine, beef broth, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Elk and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of elk with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With its comforting aroma and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the elk and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked wild rice and elk mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elk Ribs with Barbecue Sauce
A classic BBQ twist on a gamey favorite, these elk ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 elk rib bones
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the elk ribs (optional but recommended for easier fall-off-the-bone tenderness).
4. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over both sides of the elk ribs.
5. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. Bake for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
7. Remove the ribs from the oven and brush with barbecue sauce.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and sticks to the ribs.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15-20 minutes (total)
Elk Meatballs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Experience the rich flavor of elk meat paired with a savory creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your 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 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and whisk in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Serve elk meatballs with creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes, including prep time.
Elk Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Elk Pot Pie with Flaky Crust Recipe
A hearty and comforting elk pot pie recipe that’s perfect for a chilly winter evening. This recipe combines tender elk, rich gravy, and flaky crust to create a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the elk, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add flour, beef broth, heavy cream, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the elk mixture and top with mixed vegetables.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit the top of the pie. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape during baking.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Elk Jerky with Spicy Marinade
Elevate your snack game with this bold and flavorful elk jerky recipe, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk strips (or substitute with venison or beef)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add the elk strips to the marinade, making sure they’re coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the elk from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the elk strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Elk Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of elk with sweet bell peppers and creamy cheese, making for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, cooked rice, onion, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the elk mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and top each bell pepper with shredded cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in hearty, savory meals with these 20 elk recipes! From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and shepherd’s pie to international-inspired dishes like tacos and stir-fry, there’s something for everyone. Try grilling elk steak with garlic butter or slow cooking it with root vegetables. Or, go bold with elk burgers, sausages, or ribs slathered in rich sauces. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for a new culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your belly.
