Barbecued Venison Ribs

Prep: 20 min Cook: 90 min Cuisine: American

Tender venison ribs coated in smoky barbecue flavor, baked with onions and tomato soup for a hearty, savory dish perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and meat lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 lb. venison ribs
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 (10 1/2 oz.) can tomato soup

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Roll venison ribs in flour and brown them in a frying pan on the stove.
  3. Place the browned ribs in a Dutch oven.
  4. Slice the medium onion and layer it over the ribs.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Pour 1/2 cup barbecue sauce over the ribs and onions.
  7. Add the can of tomato soup to the Dutch oven.
  8. Cover and bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours until tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, marinate the venison ribs overnight in the barbecue sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. If venison is unavailable, beef ribs can serve as a substitute, although they may require different cooking times. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued venison ribs with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic pairing. They also go well with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Spicy Sausage Kebabs for a delightful contrast in flavors.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the ribs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Venison Ribs contains roughly 215 calories, with 11g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

215 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.4g 23% DV
Total Fat 7.1g 9% DV
Carbs 26.5g 10% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 15.1g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 598.6mg 26% DV
Potassium 328.2mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 26.3mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 4.4mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 44.7mg 3% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook venison ribs on the grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can grill venison ribs! Simply prepare them as directed, then cook on a medium grill for about 2-3 hours, turning occasionally and basting with barbecue sauce, until they are tender and fully cooked.

How do I know when the venison ribs are done cooking?

Venison ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. For tenderness, it's often best to cook them until they reach around 190°F (88°C), which breaks down the connective tissue and results in tender meat.

What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with venison. You might try a sauce that has a hint of fruit, like apple or cherry, to complement the gamey flavor of the meat. Homemade or store-bought can both work well, depending on your preference.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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