venison sloppy joes

Serves: 4–6

Lean venison and tangy sauce make a hearty dinner the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground venison
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar (or honey)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)
• Hamburger buns (or any sandwich rolls)

Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor or nutrition):

• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
• Shredded carrots or zucchini (to stretch the meat and add veggies)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion (and bell pepper if using) and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add ground venison and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve warm on toasted buns. Optionally, top with pickles, cheese, or coleslaw.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Cooking

• Venison is lean, so adding a bit of oil helps with texture.
• You can stretch the meat by mixing in lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
• Freeze leftovers for quick meals later.