How to Make Comforting Ground Venison Casserole in 30 Minutes

Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in no time? Well, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a Comforting Ground Venison Casserole that’s not only delicious but also perfect for quick family dinners. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your family’s appetite. Plus, if you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes, you’ll love how this casserole can be a delightful alternative!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and filling, ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile—substitute with your favorite game meat or even ground beef!
• Packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and spices.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers!

Ingredients

To make this comforting casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups creamy mashed potatoes
• 1 pound lean ground venison (or any favorite game meat)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 chopped red onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 2 diced celery stalks
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 sliced tomatoes
• 1 cup grated colby jack or cheddar cheese

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion, minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground venison to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
5. In a large bowl, combine the whisked eggs, cottage cheese, and sautéed venison mixture. Stir until well combined.
6. In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the creamy mashed potatoes on the bottom. Layer the venison mixture on top, followed by the sliced tomatoes.
7. Top with the remaining mashed potatoes and sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix, such as mushrooms or spinach, for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the venison mixture.
• For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream with the cottage cheese.
• Make sure to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

How to Serve

This comforting ground venison casserole is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a refreshing side salad. I recommend trying my Cucumber Vinegar Salad or Creamy Cucumber Salad for a delightful contrast to the hearty casserole. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more substantial, a Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs beautifully as well!

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

In conclusion, this Comforting Ground Venison Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for 30-minute meals and dinner ideas with ground venison, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You won’t regret it!