Easy Venison Meatloaf: A Wild Game Recipe from the Heart
Craving a hearty, home-style meal that celebrates the flavors of the hunt? This venison meatloaf recipe is your answer. It's a rustic, down-to-earth dish that transforms ground venison into a comforting and satisfying centerpiece for any dinner table. Forget fancy – this is all about good, honest food.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 Small bowl
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground venison
- 1 pound ground pork for moisture and flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian-style
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground venison, ground pork, breadcrumbs, cooled sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, mounding it slightly in the center.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
- Glaze the Meatloaf: Pour the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve hot.
Notes
Rustic Touches for a Perfect Meatloaf
Hand-Mixed with Love: Gently combine the ingredients with your hands for a truly home-style touch.
Simple Seasonings: Keep it classic with onions, garlic, herbs like thyme or rosemary, and a touch of black pepper. Let the venison be the star.
Hearty Glaze: A simple glaze of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, rustic sheen.
No-Fuss Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This recipe is all about adapting it to your taste and what you have on hand. It's a celebration of simple ingredients and the wonderful flavor of venison.