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Ground venison in a mix with potatoes

Ground Venison Recipe for Beginners

Ground venison is a lean and versatile protein that pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board and knife if using optional vegetables

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground venison
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup water or broth optional, for deglazing

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic, if using. Measure out all spices and have them ready.
    Finely chopped garlic sits on a dark wooden cutting board
  • Cook Onion and Garlic (Optional): If using, sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    Thinly sliced onions, gently sizzling in a hot pan
  • Add the Ground Venison: Break the venison into chunks and add it to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
    Ground venison and onions are being stirred in a skillet
  • Season the Meat: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin (if using) over the venison. Stir well to evenly coat the meat.
    Bay leaves are added to the browned ground meat
  • Cook Thoroughly: Continue cooking for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the venison is browned and no pink remains. If the skillet becomes dry, add 1/4 cup of water or broth to keep the meat moist.
    Ground venison meat and bell peppers sizzling in a skillet
  • Taste and Adjust: Taste the cooked venison and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Use the seasoned venison in your favorite dish—tacos, pasta sauce, rice bowls, or baked potato toppings!
    Ground venison with potatoes in a plate

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Avoid Overcooking: Venison is lean and can dry out quickly. Monitor closely and add a splash of liquid if needed.
  • Enhance Flavor: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce adds depth to the meat.
  • Add Heat: Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Customizations: Swap paprika and cumin for Italian herbs, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a twist.
Keyword American Cuisine, Ground Venison, Lean Protein, Quick Dinner, Versatile Recipe