Best Ever Venison
A hearty venison casserole with savory tomato sauce and onions, perfect for cozy dinners and those who enjoy rich, meaty flavors with a tender texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper; pound into the meat slices.
- Brown the sliced onion in shortening and remove from the skillet.
- Brown the meat slices in the same skillet.
- Place the browned meat in a large casserole dish.
- Top the meat with the sliced onions.
- Mix the tomato sauce and Pizza Quick sauce, then pour over the meat and onions.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the venison in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have Pizza Quick sauce, substitute with your favorite pizza sauce or even a homemade marinara. For a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the mixture before pouring it over the meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this venison casserole alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a hearty side, consider pairing it with Gene'S Beans or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of red wine can also complement the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Venison contains roughly 732 calories, with 20g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2711mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).
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 use beef instead of venison for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute beef for venison. Choose cuts like sirloin or round steak, and adjust the cooking time as needed, since beef may require less time to become tender than venison.
What can I do if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening on hand, you can use butter or vegetable oil as a substitute. Butter will add a richer flavor, while oil will keep the dish lighter. Just use the same amount as called for in the recipe.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce before pouring it over the meat. You could also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
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).