Get ready to sink your teeth into some delicious and hearty meals with these 20 savory elk recipes! Elk is a leaner and more flavorful alternative to beef, making it a great choice for anyone looking to mix up their dinner routine. From classic dishes like steak and burgers to comforting casseroles and stews, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of elk cooking, featuring recipes that showcase the rich flavor and tender texture of this incredible game meat. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these 20 savory elk recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Elk Steak with Garlic Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful elk steak recipe, infused with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place elk steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each steak, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Elk Stew
Cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of elk stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe allows the rich flavors to meld together beautifully, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless elk roast or ground elk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the elk in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and browned elk to the slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
4. Pour the mixture over the elk mixture in the slow cooker.
5. Add cubed potatoes on top of the stew.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Grilled Elk Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with the rich flavor of grilled elk and sweet caramelized onions. This recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Caramelized onions (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine elk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast buns on the grill.
6. Assemble burgers with caramelized onions and desired toppings.
Caramelized Onions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a pan over medium-low heat.
2. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Chili with Beans
This rich and flavorful elk chili is a perfect blend of tender game meat, hearty beans, and savory spices. It’s a great way to warm up on a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the elk 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 tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Elk Medallions with Red Wine Sauce
Pan-Seared Elk Medallions with Red Wine Sauce
A hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich flavor of elk, paired with a bold red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk medallions (6-8 pieces)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk medallions with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk medallions for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add butter and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and mushrooms to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Return elk medallions to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until elk is cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of elk meat with savory mushrooms and a hint of spice, making it perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. With its robust flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, oats, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve the meatloaf with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Elk Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk with the comforting warmth of shepherd’s pie, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The result is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the elk in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Elk Roast with Herbs
A classic elk roast infused with the rich flavors of herbs and smoke, perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the elk roast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Elk Tacos with Avocado Crema
Savor the bold flavors of elk paired with creamy avocado crema and crunchy toppings in this unique taco recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk ground, browned and cooked through
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Optional toppings: diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Brown the elk ground in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cumin to make the crema.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning cooked elk onto warmed tortillas, topping with avocado crema, and adding desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This hearty elk stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the rich flavor of elk paired with crunchy vegetables and savory sauces. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked brown rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add elk strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return elk to the skillet; add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked brown rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavor of elk sausage with sweet and smoky peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced elk sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the peppers and onions.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Bolognese Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory Elk Bolognese recipe, featuring tender elk meat and a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 ounces pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground elk over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the elk bolognese over cooked pasta and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Elk and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavor of elk with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground elk
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground elk over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked wild rice, elk mixture, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elk Kabobs with Chimichurri
Elevate your grilling game with this unique recipe that combines the rich flavor of elk with the bright, herby taste of chimichurri. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar to make chimichurri sauce.
3. Thread elk cubes onto skewers, leaving a 1/4 inch space between each piece.
4. Brush kabobs with chimichurri sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until elk reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Elk Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A hearty, comforting dish that showcases the rich flavor of elk, wrapped in a tender and flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook elk, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until mixture thickens.
4. Stir in heavy cream and butter.
5. Roll out puff pastry to fit 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Fill crust with elk mixture; brush edges with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Elk Ribs with BBQ Glaze
This recipe takes elk ribs to the next level by smothering them in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, perfect for special occasions or game day gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds elk ribs
– 1 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Rinse the elk ribs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ glaze, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the elk ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, leaving space between each rib for even cooking.
5. Brush the glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of the elk ribs.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Stuffed Bell Peppers
A savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the rich flavor of elk with sweet bell peppers and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground elk over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the elk mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Elk and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto combines the rich flavor of elk with the earthy taste of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the elk and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. If using white wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Elk Jerky with Spicy Marinade
Elk Jerky with Spicy Marinade Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk with a spicy kick from a bold marinade, perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elk strips (such as tenderloins or lean muscles)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the elk strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Remove the elk from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the elk strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Elk Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
This hearty dish combines the rich flavor of elk with the comfort of a classic tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground elk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground elk, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, warm tomato sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some savory elk dishes with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic comfort foods like Elk Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy and Elk Shepherd’s Pie, to international flavors like Elk Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Elk Tacos with Avocado Crema, there’s something for every taste bud. Try grilling Elk Burgers with Caramelized Onions or slow-cooking a hearty Elk Stew. For a sweet and savory twist, try making Elk Jerky with Spicy Marinade. Whether you’re a seasoned elk hunter or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite for adventure.
