Spicy Trail Bologna

Prep: 30 min Cook: 240 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: American

Spicy Trail Bologna is a flavorful cured sausage made from venison, seasoned with peppers and garlic, perfect for game meat lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. deerburger
  • 5 Tbsp. Tender Quick
  • 2 1/2 tsp. coarse ground pepper
  • 1 Tbsp. cayenne pepper
  • 2 1/2 tsp. mustard seed
  • 1 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
  2. Knead the mixture well until evenly combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into 5 rolls and wrap each in wax paper.
  4. Refrigerate the wrapped rolls for 24 hours.
  5. Remove the wax paper from each roll.
  6. Bake on a slotted rack at 300°F for 1 hour or at 200°F for 3.5 to 4 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a different heat profile. If you don't have deerburger, ground beef or turkey can be substituted, though the taste will differ. Make sure to knead the mixture thoroughly for even seasoning, and let it rest in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the spicy trail bologna into thin rounds and serve it as a hearty sandwich filling or as part of a charcuterie board. It pairs beautifully with Jello Waldorf Salad for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, consider serving it alongside pickles and spicy mustard for a delightful flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 300°F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spicy Trail Bologna contains roughly 1282 calories, with 49g protein, 229g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (390% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (340% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 109g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1282 kcal 64% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 48.5g 97% DV
Total Fat 69.1g 89% DV
Carbs 228.7g 83% DV
Fiber 109.1g 100% DV
Sugar 41.4g 83% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 121.6mg 5% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3000mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 305.6mg 100% DV
Calcium 596.4mg 46% DV
Iron 31.4mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 adjust the spice level of the trail bologna?

Absolutely! You can decrease the cayenne pepper for a milder version or add more to enhance the heat. Additionally, experimenting with different types of pepper or adding diced jalapeños can provide unique flavor variations while allowing you to control the spice level.

How can I ensure the bologna is cooked evenly?

Using a slotted rack allows air to circulate around the rolls, promoting even cooking. If you're concerned about cooking time, consider using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and optimal texture.

Can I use this recipe for other types of meat?

Yes, while the recipe is designed for deerburger, you can use ground pork, beef, or turkey as alternatives. Just keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments in seasoning or cooking times to achieve the desired flavor and texture.

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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