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How to use ground venison

food bank volunteer getting package of venison out of freezer

How to use ground venison

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About Hunters Feeding Michigan’s venison

The ground venison distributed through Hunters Feeding Michigan is from Michigan deer donated by Michigan deer hunters. It is a lean, healthy source of protein and nutrients. Learn more about how Hunters Feeding Michigan works.
two sheet pans of venison burritos on counter

How to cook ground venison

Ground venison is just like ground beef, except it has less fat. You can cook and use it the same way you would ground beef. To get you started, check out some recipes below that we recommend trying.

Here are some recipes submitted by Michigan hunters and other venison cooks. Have a recipe you'd like to share? Please send the recipe and a photo of the dish to 
DNR-HuntersFeedingMI@Michigan.gov.

Sweet and sour venison meatballs over rice on plate

Sweet and sour venison meatballs

From Stacy A. in Standish. A tasty recipe for when you’re craving takeout.
bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese and sour cream

Venison chili

From Samantha R. in Mattawan. This sweet and savory venison chili is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Cooked pot pie on wooden cutting board

Venison pot pie

From Charlie M. in Traverse City. An easy version of a classic comfort-food favorite.

Recipes below come from Department of Natural Resources staff. Stay tuned as we add more!

Pot of macaroni and cheese with ground venison and corn

Hunter helper

From Keaton L. in Traverse City. "Here's my favorite cheap, easy and tasty venison recipe."
dish of ground venison and beans with wooden spoon

Rustic burger and beans

From Joe P. in Lansing. A hearty and simple deer camp favorite!
bowl of shepherd's pie with spoon in it

Venison shepherd's pie

From Tyler C. in Lansing. A simple, hearty recipe with optional cheese and peas.