Description
Enjoy this hearty venison and wild rice bake, packed with protein, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients. A perfect comfort meal!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Venison and Wild Rice Bake:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground venison
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice, cooked
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wild Rice
- Rinse wild rice under cold water.
- Bring 3 cups of water or broth to a boil.
- Add the wild rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until rice is tender.
- Drain excess water and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Venison
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground venison and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Transfer the cooked venison to a separate bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add onions, garlic, mushrooms, carrots, and celery.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, venison, sautéed vegetables, thyme, rosemary, and beef broth.
- Stir in heavy cream for added richness.
- If using cheese, mix in half the shredded cheddar.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy the hearty, savory flavors of venison and wild rice.
Notes
✔ Use high-quality venison – Fresh, well-prepared venison enhances the dish’s flavor.
✔ Don’t overcook the wild rice – Keeping it slightly firm prevents a mushy texture.
✔ Experiment with herbs – Sage and oregano can be excellent additions.
✔ Add a crunchy topping – Crushed nuts or breadcrumbs can provide extra texture.
✔ Let it rest before serving – This allows the flavors to meld together.
✔ Make it ahead – Assemble the dish a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 45minutes