Easy Tender Venison Backstrap Recipes Crockpot: A Wild Game Dinner Delight

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crockpot Venison Backstrap Recipe

Looking for the perfect venison backstrap recipes crockpot dinner that will impress even the pickiest eaters? This slow cooker method transforms lean, sometimes tough venison backstrap into a tender, juicy, and flavor-packed meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Crockpot Venison Backstrap Recipe Works

As any hunter or game meat enthusiast knows, venison backstrap is the prime cut – similar to beef tenderloin. But cooking it properly can be tricky. The slow cooker method solves these challenges:

• Tenderizes naturally lean meat through slow, moist heat
• Eliminates gamey flavor with aromatic ingredients
• Creates a rich, savory gravy without added fats
• Requires minimal hands-on time – perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings

Perfect Occasions for Slow-Cooked Venison Backstrap

This hearty wild game dish is ideal for:

• Cold weather comfort food dinners
• Impressing dinner guests with a unique main course
• Sunday family meals
• Using up your hunting season harvest

Ingredients for Crockpot Venison Backstrap

• 2-3 pounds venison backstrap, cut into 3-4 inch portions
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix
• 1 packet dry cream of mushroom soup mix
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons corn starch (optional, for thickening)
• ¼ cup cold water (optional, for thickening)

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart slow cooker/crockpot
• Large skillet for searing (optional but recommended)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for trimming meat

How to Prepare Venison Backstrap for the Crockpot

Proper preparation is key to exceptional results:

• Trim carefully: Remove all silverskin and external fat, which can contribute to gamey flavors
• Cut properly: Slice backstrap into portions that will cook evenly
• Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture before searing

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Venison Backstrap

1. Prepare the venison backstrap by trimming away any silverskin or fat. Pat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the venison pieces on all sides until nicely browned, about 2 minutes per side. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhanced flavor.
3. Place sliced onion rings in the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a bed for the meat.
4. Arrange seared venison backstrap pieces on top of the onions.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, dry onion soup mix, dry cream of mushroom soup mix, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Whisk until well combined.
6. Pour the liquid mixture over the venison in the slow cooker, ensuring meat is mostly covered.
7. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The venison is done when it’s fork-tender but not falling apart.
8. Optional: 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir into the cooking liquid and continue cooking until gravy thickens.
9. Allow meat to rest in the warm cooking liquid for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Your Venison Backstrap Crockpot Meal

This hearty wild game dish pairs perfectly with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
• Buttered egg noodles
• Roasted root vegetables
• Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious gravy
• A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah

Tips for the Best Crockpot Venison Backstrap

• Don’t skip the sear: Browning the meat first creates a deep flavor base that transforms your dish
• Keep the lid closed: Every time you peek, you lose heat and extend cooking time
• Low and slow wins: While HIGH setting works, the LOW setting produces more tender results
• Rest before serving: This allows juices to redistribute through the meat

Storing and Reheating Leftover Venison Backstrap

This dish actually gets even better after a day in the refrigerator as the flavors continue to develop!

• Refrigeration: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Warm gently in a covered saucepan on low heat or microwave on 70% power, adding a splash of broth if needed

Variations on Classic Crockpot Venison Backstrap

Mushroom and Wine Version

Add 8oz sliced mushrooms and replace 1 cup of broth with dry red wine for a richer flavor profile.

Herb Garden Harvest

Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones (triple the amount) and add a bay leaf for a brighter taste.

Root Vegetable Medley

Add carrots, parsnips, and turnips in the last 2 hours of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.

FAQ About Cooking Venison Backstrap in a Crockpot

Can I use frozen venison backstrap?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen backstrap. Thaw completely before cooking and expect to add about 1 hour to the cooking time.

What if my venison has a very gamey taste?

Soak the backstrap in buttermilk for 8-12 hours in the refrigerator before cooking to help neutralize strong flavors.

Can I substitute other cuts of venison?

Yes! While backstrap is premium, this recipe works well with shoulder roast or leg cuts. You may need to adjust cooking time for tougher cuts.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

As written, it contains some carbs from the soup mixes. To make it keto, replace packaged mixes with homemade seasoning blends without fillers or thickeners.

Why You’ll Love This Venison Backstrap Crockpot Recipe

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just someone who appreciates wild game cuisine, this slow cooker venison backstrap recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender meat, savory herbs, and rich gravy makes this a dish your family will request again and again. Give this venison backstrap recipes crockpot method a try – it might just become your new favorite way to prepare this premium wild game cut!

Recipe inspired by Allrecipes