My Go-To Venison Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a pot of hearty venison stew simmering away on a chilly evening. This rich and flavorful dish combines tasty pieces of game meat with tender vegetables and a deeply seasoned broth. It’s comfort food that warms you up from the inside out, and each bite is just as good as the last. Plus, it's so, so easy to make. Just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to whip it up.

My Family's Favorite Venison Stew Recipe

This recipe comes straight from my Uncle Bob's family cookbook. Growing up, he was known for his love of hunting and would often gift us fresh venison. My mom would turn his gift into the most comforting venison stew, packed with tender chunks of meat, potatoes, and savory herbs. Every time I make this recipe, it brings back memories of family gatherings where we'd all huddle around the table, eagerly waiting for that first spoonful of warm, hearty goodness.

Ingredients for Venison Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful venison stew:

• 1 lb venison, cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 medium potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 thyme sprigs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef stock
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Venison Stew

Step 1: Brown the Venison

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed venison and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the edges are browned. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then, add the minced garlic, thyme sprigs, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce.

Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and return the browned venison to the pot.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the venison is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

My Expert Tips for the Best Venison Stew

1. Trim the Venison Well: Make sure to remove any silvery sinew from the meat to prevent toughness.
2. Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the venison first adds a rich depth of flavor to the stew. Be patient and let the edges get nice and caramelized.
3. Let It Simmer: For the most tender venison, I like to let the stew simmer on low for at least an hour or two - don't rush it. This will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth.
4. Make It Ahead: Like most stews, this venison stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long!

FAQs About Venison Stew

Can I use other meats instead of venison?

Yes, you can substitute beef or lamb if you don’t have venison on hand. The flavors will still be rich and hearty.

How can I store leftover venison stew?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Do I have to use beef stock?

While beef stock gives the best flavor, you can use chicken or vegetable stock as a substitute if needed.

What can I serve with venison stew?

Over the years, I’ve found a few go-to options that really bring out the best flavors of the stew. Whether it’s a crusty bread for dipping or something light and fresh to balance the boldness, these sides have become staples at our table.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Crusty Bread: There’s nothing like a loaf of warm, crusty bread to pair with venison stew. The bread’s crunchy exterior and soft, airy interior are perfect for soaking up the rich, savory broth. My Longhorn Steakhouse bread is the perfect vessel to do that with - it's my favorite way to make sure not a single drop of that flavorful stew goes to waste.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes bring a creamy, buttery balance to the hearty, earthy flavors of venison stew. Spoon the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it stretches the stew further for family dinners.

Roasted Root Vegetables: Adding roasted carrots, parsnips, or turnips as a side gives the meal an earthy sweetness that complements the bold flavor of venison. The caramelized edges of the roasted veggies add another layer of depth to the whole experience.

Savory Biscuits: A warm biscuit, infused with herbs like thyme or rosemary, is a delicious partner for venison stew. They’re perfect for sopping up the broth, and the subtle herb flavor ties in beautifully with the stew’s rustic, savory vibe. With that said, I also like to make these buttery biscuits when I make the stew too. 

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the venison first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

This venison stew is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy family meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special gathering or just as a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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