Oven Baked Smothered Rabbit
Oven baked smothered rabbit offers tender, flavorful meat coated in a rich mushroom gravy, perfect for hearty family dinners and those who enjoy savory comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the rabbit pieces in salt water for about 20 minutes.
- Dredge the rabbit pieces in seasoned self-rising flour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and melt 1 stick of butter in a large casserole pan.
- Place the floured rabbit pieces into the pan.
- Bake the rabbit for 20 minutes.
- Turn the rabbit pieces over.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- In a frying pan, melt 1/2 stick of butter.
- Add 4 tablespoons of flour and mix well until creamy.
- Slowly add chicken broth while stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Add milk and the can of cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the gravy over the rabbit in the casserole dish.
- Bake for another 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the rabbit in buttermilk overnight before cooking. If you're out of self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and salt. If rabbit is unavailable, chicken thighs make a great alternative, adjusting cooking time as necessary. Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smothered rabbit over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Chicken And Biscuits for a hearty family dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rabbit in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meat tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Smothered Rabbit contains roughly 195 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2017mg per serving (88% 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 frozen rabbit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rabbit, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and help in achieving the best texture. Plan for about 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds of rabbit.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a lighter option or don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use a homemade mushroom gravy or a mixture of sour cream and a bit of broth. This will maintain the creamy texture while adding a fresh flavor to the dish.
How do I know when the rabbit is fully cooked?
Rabbit should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat. The meat should be tender and no longer pink. If it’s still tough, it may need a bit more baking time.
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).