Quick Venison Tenderloin Recipe Guide

Last updated on March 22nd, 2025 at 03:03 pm

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Quick Venison Tenderloin Recipe

This quick venison tenderloin recipe is perfect for anyone looking to experience the rich, deep flavors of venison without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a tender, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes.

Type: Meat

Cuisine: American

Keywords: Venison tenderloin, venison recipe, quick venison recipe, seared venison, tender venison tenderloin, balsamic glaze, venison dinner, easy venison recipe

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 300

Preparation Time: PT10M

Cooking Time: PT15M

Total Time: PT25M

Recipe Ingredients:

• 2 venison tenderloins (about 1 lb total)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a rich glaze)
• Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)

Step By Step

1. Pat the venison tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle fresh rosemary and minced garlic on top, pressing them lightly into the meat.
2. Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering. Place the venison tenderloins in the pan and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. If you prefer a medium-rare finish, transfer the seared tenderloin to a preheated oven at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes. For a more well-done finish, cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the venison from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin medallions.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. You can also deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar to create a rich, savory glaze.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme (optional) and serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Summary

This quick venison tenderloin recipe is perfect for anyone looking to experience the rich, deep flavors of venison without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a tender, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes.

Tips

• Choose fresh venison for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the venison to avoid drying it out. Medium-rare to medium is best.
• Rest the meat before slicing for more tender and juicy results.
• Pair with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme, sage, or oregano for extra flavor.

Listen to the Podcast

October 24, 2024 · Season 2 : Chop and Pop · Episode 21

10 Min · By Sophia B.

Follow this quick venison tenderloin recipe guide for a juicy, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare.

For The Reading Lovers

Ever had that first bite that made you feel like a cooking master? The dish that wowed everyone at the table? I remember my first venison tenderloin. It was more than a meal; it was a kitchen triumph.

Mastering a venison tenderloin recipe is rewarding. It turns game meat into a delicious dish. Whether you’re new to wild game or want to improve your venison skills, you’re in the right spot. This guide will help you make a quick and tasty venison recipe.

Let’s make this tender cut easy to cook. You’ll learn how to pan-sear and slow-cook it, plus some great seasoning tips. You can wrap it in bacon, marinate it, or just sear it. Get ready to make venison tenderloin your new kitchen star!

Key Takeaways

• Preparation time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Ingredients needed: 5 basic items
• Perfect cooking temperature: 350°F
• Minimum marination time: 3 hours for flavor infusion
• Easy venison tenderloin recipe with step-by-step guidance
• Servings: Feeds 6 people generously
• Calories per serving: 362 kcal

Introduction to Venison Tenderloin

Venison tenderloin is known as the ‘filet mignon’ of deer meat. It’s tender and has a unique flavor. This cut is from the inside of the backbone, making it a top choice for meat lovers.

Cooking venison tenderloin needs a careful approach to keep it tender. It’s important to cook it right to enjoy its full flavor.

It’s key to know the difference between venison tenderloin and other cuts like deer loins. The tenderloin is smaller and more tender, making it a favorite among many.

Getting the tenderloin from the deer is the first step. It’s important to avoid contamination, like from a gut shot. This ensures the meat stays pure and tastes great.

Preparation is key when cooking venison tenderloin. Allow the meat to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and brings out the flavor. For a medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. It cooks fast, so watch the time and temperature closely.

When seasoning and cooking venison tenderloin, think about using garlic compound butter. Use ½ cup of salted butter for a rich flavor. This butter is best used within three days if kept in the fridge, or frozen for later.

Venison tenderloin is a special treat often saved for special occasions. It has a toasted flavor that makes any meal unforgettable. With the right preparation and cooking, this exquisite cut can make any meal extraordinary.

Ingredients Needed for a Perfect Venison Tenderloin

Creating the best venison tenderloin recipe starts with the right ingredients. The quality of these ingredients greatly affects the dish’s taste and texture. Choosing the best components ensures a tender and tasty meal that will wow your guests every time.

Venison Tenderloin

The main ingredient is the venison tenderloin. You’ll need about 10 ounces for two people. Look for tenderloins with a vibrant color and little marbling. Fresh venison makes a big difference in the final dish.

Cooking Oils

Choosing the right cooking oil is key for a perfect sear. Oils like safflower and grapeseed work well because they can handle high heat without burning. This creates a delicious crust on your tenderloin. Here’s a comparison of some good oils:

Seasonings and Spices

Seasoning is what makes your venison tenderloin stand out. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sea Salt: It brings out the meat’s natural taste. Use about 1 ¼ teaspoons for the best flavor.
• Black pepper: It adds a subtle heat and complexity.
• Fresh Rosemary: Add about 2 teaspoons to give your tenderloin a nice herbal flavor.
• Butter: Use 3 tablespoons of butter to add richness and depth to the dish.

Season your meat about 30 minutes before cooking. This lets the flavors soak in, making the dish even more delicious.

Preparing the Venison Tenderloin

Preparing venison tenderloin starts with key steps for a tasty and tender dish. We’ll cover cleaning and trimming the meat and why salting the meat is important before cooking.

Cleaning and Trimming

Begin by placing the venison tenderloin on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to remove silver skin and excess fat. This makes the meat tender and helps seasonings soak in better.

After trimming, you’ll have a clean piece of tenderloin. Now, you’re ready to cook it perfectly.

Salting the Meat

Seasoning your venison tenderloin is vital. Salt enhances flavor and keeps the meat moist. Sprinkle salt on all sides and let it rest for at least an hour before cooking.

These steps are essential for a delicious venison tenderloin, whether for a special event or a casual meal. Now, you’re set to cook with confidence!

Pan-Searing Venison Tenderloin

Searing venison tenderloin is an art that needs precision and skill. It’s about getting that perfect crust without overcooking. Whether you’re new or experienced, learning to sear venison tenderloin can boost your cooking skills. We’ll guide you through making a pan-seared venison tenderloin recipe with a tender center and a flavorful crust.

Choosing the Right Pan

Choosing the right pan is key for this recipe. A cast iron skillet is best because it holds heat well and cooks evenly. This ensures your venison cooks right, without cold spots. Use 2 tablespoons of grapeseed, avocado, safflower, or canola oil for the best sear.

Heating the Pan

It’s important to heat the pan well before adding the meat. Heat your cast iron skillet on medium-high. When the oil shimmers, it’s ready. This preheating helps the venison sear right away, creating a golden crust.

Searing to Perfection

Now, it’s time to sear the venison. Put the tenderloin in the hot pan and let it sear for 2 minutes on each side. This gives you a total of 6 minutes for a beautifully browned exterior. After searing, let the meat rest for 5 to 8 minutes to keep the juices in.

Done right, this method adds a rich flavor and perfect doneness. Your pan-seared venison tenderloin recipe will be a feast for two! Enjoy the journey and the delicious outcome as you learn to sear venison to perfection!

Venison Tenderloin Recipe

Looking for a tasty homemade venison tenderloin recipe? You’re in the right place! This easy recipe will make your taste buds happy. Venison tenderloins are the most tender part of a deer or elk, found inside the spine near the hips. This recipe is simple and great for all cooks.

First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need 2 venison tenderloins, cooking oil with a high smoke point, and seasonings like salt and pepper. For extra flavor, make garlic compound butter with ½ cup of salted butter, 3 small garlic cloves, and ½ tsp. of minced fresh rosemary. This butter is best used within 3 days in the fridge or can be frozen for later.

Now, let’s get to making a delicious venison tenderloin:

1. Preparation: Make sure the tenderloins are clean and trimmed well to avoid bad flavors.
2. Seasoning: Rub the tenderloins with salt and pepper on all sides. This enhances the natural flavor of the meat.
3. Pan-Searing: Heat a skillet with high-smoke-point oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Sear each side of the tenderloins for 1 to 2 minutes, for about 5 to 6 minutes total.
4. Garlic Butter Finish: Add 2 tablespoons of garlic compound butter during the last minute of searing. Let it melt and coat the meat.
5. Cooking: Cook to medium-rare at 130°F before resting. Deer tenderloins take about 5 to 6 minutes, elk a bit longer.
6. Resting: Let the tenderloins rest for 8 minutes after removing from heat. This keeps the juices in and flavors enhanced.

For more flavor, try a fresh salsa verde with your venison. You’ll need 1 cup of fresh parsley leaves, 1 garlic clove, 2 anchovies, 1 tablespoon of capers, half a lemon’s juice, and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Blend until smooth and drizzle over the tenderloin.

Here’s a quick overview of the key components:

Follow these steps for a delicious homemade venison tenderloin every time. It’s a simple recipe that impresses with flavor and looks great, perfect for any meal. Happy cooking!

Delicious Pan Sauces for Venison Tenderloin

Adding the right pan sauce to your venison tenderloin can make your meal unforgettable. We’ll look at three great sauces: Steak Diane, Blueberry, and French Au Poivre. These recipes are perfect for your venison tenderloin and will make your meal special.

Steak Diane Sauce

This sauce adds a touch of luxury to your dish. Start by cooking shallots and garlic in butter until they’re soft. Then, add cognac and flambé for that unique Diane flavor.

Next, mix in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Let it simmer until it thickens. Finish with heavy cream and parsley. This sauce is a perfect match for venison, making it rich and savory.

Blueberry Sauce

Blueberry sauce offers a sweet and tangy twist. In a pan, combine blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and red wine. Cook the sauce until the blueberries pop and the mixture thickens.

Add salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor. This sauce is amazing with venison, adding a fruity touch that balances the meat’s richness.

French Au Poivre Sauce

This classic sauce pairs wonderfully with venison. Begin by crushing black peppercorns and pressing them onto the meat before searing. For the sauce, deglaze the pan with cognac, then stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and a splash of beef broth.

Simmer until it’s creamy. This sauce is a mix of spicy and savory, making it perfect for special occasions.

Each sauce brings a unique flavor to your venison dish. Experiment with them to discover your favorite and make each venison meal unforgettable.

Grilled Venison Tenderloin

Grilling venison tenderloin brings out its rich flavor. It keeps the meat tender and juicy. Let’s explore how to prepare your grill, master grilling techniques, and finish the tenderloin perfectly.

Preparing the Grill

Start by cleaning your grill and preheating it to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is key for searing the venison quickly. It locks in the juices and creates a tasty crust. Lightly oil the grill grates to avoid sticking.

Grilling Techniques

When your grill is hot, it’s time to grill the venison tenderloin. Place it over the heat and sear each side. For medium-rare, cook each side for 2-3 minutes. For a well-done finish, cook for 4-6 minutes per side.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the proper internal temperature. It should be between 125º-130º Fahrenheit for perfect medium-rare.

Finishing on the Grill

After searing, move the venison to indirect heat to finish cooking. This slow phase ensures even cooking and blends flavors beautifully. Let the meat rest for about 5 minutes after cooking.

This resting period helps the juices spread evenly. It makes the tenderloin more flavorful and tender. With these steps, your grilled venison tenderloin will always be delicious and memorable.

Slow Cooker Venison Tenderloin

Imagine coming home to the delicious aroma of a meltingly tender venison tenderloin. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to achieve this culinary delight. With just a bit of preparation, you can masterfully create a slow cooker venison tenderloin recipe that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.

Setting Up the Slow Cooker

Your journey to a perfect slow cooker venison tenderloin starts with setting up your slow cooker. Begin by placing your 2-pound venison back strap or tenderloin into the slow cooker. To enhance flavors, add a dry pork gravy mix and a can of cream of mushroom soup. Don’t forget to include a small package of frozen carrots and two small sweet onions for that added touch of sweetness.

Cooking at Low Heat

The secret to a succulent dish lies in the slow cooking approach. Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 hours for the best results. This low-and-slow method ensures your slow cooker venison tenderloin recipe becomes fork-tender. As the meat cooks, it absorbs all the flavors, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Adding Flavors

The beauty of easy slow cooker venison recipes is the ability to play around with flavors. Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and garlic salt each, and half a teaspoon of black pepper to elevate the taste. The combination of these seasonings with the natural juices from the venison and vegetables creates a rich, savory, and aromatic dish that needs minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor.

Flavorful Seasoning Ideas for Venison Tenderloin

Looking for tasty venison tenderloin seasoning ideas? You’re in the right place! Whether you like classic flavors or bold new ones, there’s something for everyone. These ideas will make your venison taste amazing.

Herb and Garlic

The herb and garlic mix is a timeless favorite. Mix dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder with Kosher salt and black pepper. This creates a delicious crust for your venison tenderloin:

• ¾ cup Kosher salt (approximately 113 grams)
• 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper (approximately 14 grams)
• 2 tablespoons onion powder (approximately 14 grams)
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder (approximately 14 grams)
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (approximately 2 grams)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme (approximately 2 grams)

This rub not only boosts the flavor but also makes a beautiful crust when seared in a cast iron skillet.

Spicy Cajun

For a spicy kick, try a Cajun seasoning blend. It combines smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and other spices for a zesty flavor:

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (approximately 2.3 grams)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Adding this blend to your venison tenderloin will make your taste buds happy!

Sweet and Savory

For something different, try a sweet and savory rub. It includes brown sugar, smoked paprika, and ground coffee for a unique taste:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coffee
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

This mix balances sweetness and savory flavors, making your meal unforgettable.

Now you have these seasoning ideas, you’re ready to make a delicious meal. Enjoy cooking!

Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines

Getting your venison tenderloin just right is all about timing and temperature. It’s key to focus on the venison tenderloin cooking time and the proper temperature for venison tenderloin.

For a medium rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C). This keeps your venison moist and tender, with its flavors intact. When pan-searing, the initial temperature is about 90°F (32°C). Then, take it off the heat when it hits 125–127°F (52–53°C) to finish with your sauce.

If you like your venison a bit firmer, aim for 135–145°F (57–63°C). This method balances tenderness with a firmer texture. A gentle poach after searing keeps the meat juicy.

For those who value safety and taste, wild game chefs often aim for 120 to 130°F. But, the CDC and USDA say to cook venison to at least 160°F. Remember, 145°F kills about 99% of bacteria and parasites.

The venison tenderloin cooking time depends on your method. A quick sear followed by poaching keeps it perfect. Always rely on a meat thermometer for accurate results.

Handling venison with care makes your cooking shine. Focus on the venison tenderloin cooking time and the proper temperature for venison tenderloin. This way, every bite will be a flavorful delight!

Serving and Slicing Your Venison Tenderloin

You’ve worked hard to cook the perfect venison tenderloin. Now, it’s time to serve it right. Properly slicing the meat is essential for the best results. This helps the meat remain juicy and tender.

Resting the Meat

Before slicing, let the meat rest. This step is vital for keeping flavors and juices in. After cooking, whether by pan-searing, grilling, or slow-cooking, let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Resting allows juices to spread evenly. This makes every bite incredibly juicy.

Slicing Techniques

When slicing venison tenderloin, the right method is essential. Here’s a simple guide for perfect slices:

1. Place the rested venison tenderloin on a clean cutting board.
2. Use a sharp carving knife for clean cuts. A dull knife can cause the meat to tear.
3. Cut against the grain for tender slices. This means cutting against the muscle fibers.
4. For a sophisticated presentation, aim for 1/2 inch slices. This highlights the venison’s natural texture and flavor.

Once sliced, arrange the venison on a warm serving platter. This helps keep the meat at an ideal temperature. Mastering these techniques will elevate the venison’s flavors and textures. Your meal will be unforgettable.

Pairing Sides with Venison Tenderloin

Choosing the right sides for venison tenderloin is key to a great meal. Venison is low in fat but high in protein, making it perfect with many sides. Wondering what to serve with venison? Here are some excellent side dish suggestions to complement your main course.

Vegetable Sides

Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are great with venison. Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, ready in 25 minutes, offer a sweet contrast. The Cucumber Carrot and Radish Salad is quick and easy to make.

Starchy Sides

Hearty starches like potatoes and grains balance venison’s richness. The Easy Instant Pot Pinto Beans recipe saves time by skipping soaking. Rice pilaf is also quick to make for a filling side. For bread lovers, Easy No Knead Dinner Rolls are a great choice.

Salads and More

Salads bring a refreshing touch to your meal. The Lentil and Cauliflower Dill Salad is great for a quick lunch. The Italian Carrot Salad Recipe is a unique option, ready in 25 minutes. Roasted Asparagus with Buttered Shallots and Garlic Scapes is a favorite, needing just six ingredients.

Conclusion

Exploring ways to cook venison tenderloin shows it’s a versatile meat. You can pan-sear, grill, or slow cook it for different tastes. We’ve shared seasoning tips, pan sauces, and cooking times to help you.

Venison is not just tasty but also good for the planet. It has only 2 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving. We’ve given you 11 recipes, from herb and garlic to spicy Cajun, and sweet and savory.

These recipes use ingredients like gin, blackberry, and chipotle rub. They show how venison can be exciting for any night. So, get your ingredients ready and start cooking. Soon, you’ll be making meals that feel like a gourmet experience.

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