20 Savory Venison Steak Recipes for Hearty Meals

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these 20 mouthwatering venison steak recipes! Venison, or deer meat, is a lean and flavorful protein that’s perfect for hearty meals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, these recipes will guide you through the process of preparing succulent and savory venison steaks. From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to bold flavors like mushroom cream sauce and cajun spices, we’ve got something for everyone.

Grilled Venison Steak with Garlic Butter

Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and tender venison steak recipe, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. With the rich flavors of garlic and butter, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill venison steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic butter mixture evenly over each steak.
6. Remove from grill and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pan-Seared Venison Steak with Red Wine Reduction

Elevate your dinner table with this rich and flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Pan-searing the venison steak to perfection and pairing it with a velvety red wine reduction creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) venison steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the venison steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the venison steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the red wine, beef broth, and butter to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the venison steak with the warm red wine reduction spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes total (including oven time).

Venison Steak with Mushroom Cream Sauce

Savor the rich flavors of wild game with this hearty recipe, pairing tender venison steak with a decadent mushroom cream sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1-2 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear venison steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, garlic, and butter. Cook over medium heat until mushrooms release their moisture and start to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve venison steaks with mushroom cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes

Herb-Marinated Venison Steak

Elevate your game with this flavorful recipe that combines the rich taste of venison steak with a savory herb marinade.

Ingredients:

– 1.5-2 pounds venison steaks, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the venison steaks to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the venison from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the steaks to desired doneness: 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
7. Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blackened Venison Steak with Cajun Spices

Elevate your game with this bold recipe that adds a spicy kick to tender venison steak, perfectly blackened with a blend of Cajun spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6 oz) venison steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning (Cajun blend)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Rub the spice blend evenly onto both sides of the venison steak.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and sear the venison steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total

Venison Steak and Blue Cheese Salad

Savor the rich flavors of venison steak paired with the pungency of blue cheese and the freshness of mixed greens in this hearty salad. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 oz venison steaks
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper.
2. Grill or cook venison steaks for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blue cheese, and chopped walnuts.
4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Slice grilled venison steaks into thin strips and place on top of the salad.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Venison Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Elevate your taco game with this unique combination of tender venison steak and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their taco Tuesday.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
2. Add the venison steak to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the venison from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled venison, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.

Avocado Salsa:

– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Slow-Cooked Venison Steak in Bourbon Glaze

Tenderize venison steak with a rich bourbon glaze that infuses deep flavors, perfect for a special occasion or rustic dinner party. This slow-cooked recipe yields tender and flavorful results.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) venison steak
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic.
3. Season venison steak with salt and pepper.
4. Place the steak in the slow cooker and pour the bourbon glaze over it.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until tender, flipping halfway through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Venison Steak Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Savor the rich flavor of venison steak paired with a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add venison steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and snow peas. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Serve venison steaks with stir-fried vegetables and garnish with scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Venison Steak with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze

Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with this show-stopping venison steak recipe, elevated by a rich and tangy cranberry balsamic glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cranberries
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the glaze has thickened.
3. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat. Sear venison steaks for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until venison reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Brush the cranberry balsamic glaze over the venison steaks during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Smoked Venison Steak with Rosemary

This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked venison steak with the earthy aroma of rosemary, resulting in a savory and tender dish perfect for special occasions. With minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 oz venison steak
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the venison steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the venison steak in the smoker for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add chopped rosemary sprigs on top of the steak.
6. Remove the steak from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Venison Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions

Experience the rich flavor of venison paired with sweet caramelized onions and crispy bread. This hearty sandwich is perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 oz venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the venison steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the venison for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. While the venison is cooking, caramelize the onions in a separate pan with olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled venison on the buns, topping with caramelized onions, and adding cheese and lettuce/tomato if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Venison Steak and Sweet Potato Hash

Savor the rich flavor of venison steak paired with a crispy sweet potato hash, perfect for a satisfying dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines bold flavors and textures to create a memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, season venison steaks with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices (if using).
5. Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear venison steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook venison steaks for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Serve venison steak with roasted sweet potato hash and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Venison Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Experience the bold flavors of Argentina with this simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs tender venison steak with a zesty and herby chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the venison steaks with olive oil.
4. Grill the venison for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, stir chimichurri sauce to re-emulsify if necessary.
6. Serve the grilled venison steak with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Venison Steak and Wild Rice Pilaf

This hearty pilaf pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of venison steak, making it a great option for a special occasion or hunting trip. This recipe combines the savory taste of wild rice with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steak
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add wild rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, season venison steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear venison steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until desired level of doneness.
4. In a separate pan, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve venison steak atop the wild rice pilaf and spoon some of the mushroom mixture over the top.

Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes

Venison Steak with Peppercorn Sauce

A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe elevates the rich taste of venison steak to new heights. A creamy peppercorn sauce adds a velvety smoothness that complements the gamey flavor of the venison perfectly.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp freshly ground black peppercorns
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add heavy cream, black peppercorns, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve venison steaks with warm peppercorn sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Venison Steak Kebabs with Bell Peppers

Venison Steak Kebabs with Bell Peppers: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs!

Ingredients:

– 8 oz venison steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or seasonings

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine venison cubes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Thread ingredients onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Cook kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until venison reaches desired doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Venison Steak and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This classic combination of tender venison steak paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 0.25 tsp garlic powder
– 0.25 tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season venison steaks with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear venison steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
4. Toss Brussels sprouts with salt and black pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time:

– Venison steaks: 10-12 minutes total
– Brussels sprouts: 20-25 minutes

Venison Steak with Horseradish Cream

This recipe elevates gamey venison steak to new heights by pairing it with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 4 venison steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season venison steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear 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. Meanwhile, combine heavy cream, horseradish, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
5. Serve venison steaks with a dollop of horseradish cream spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Venison Steak and Butternut Squash Puree

This recipe combines the rich flavor of venison steak with the comforting warmth of butternut squash puree, making for a satisfying and savory meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) venison steak
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the venison steak with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the venison steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, roast the butternut squash in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop out the roasted squash flesh and blend with chopped onion and garlic to create a smooth puree.
6. Serve the venison steak alongside the warm butternut squash puree.

Cooking Time: Venison steak: 10-12 minutes total; Butternut squash: 45-50 minutes.

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of venison steak with these 20 savory recipes. From classic dishes like Grilled Venison Steak with Garlic Butter and Pan-Seared Venison Steak with Red Wine Reduction, to bold twists like Blackened Venison Steak with Cajun Spices and Smoked Venison Steak with Rosemary, there’s something for every palate. Try pairing your venison steak with creamy sauces, crunchy slaws, or hearty grains, or get adventurous with international flavors like tacos and pilaf. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

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