10 Ground Elk Recipes: Hearty and Delicious Dishes You’ll Want on Repeat

If you’ve ever tasted ground elk, you already know there’s something special about it. It’s lean, rich in flavor, and carries a subtle earthiness that makes it stand out from regular ground beef. I first tried it a few years ago when a friend brought back a package from a hunting trip in Montana. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect—elk sounded a little wild, a little exotic. But one bite of a simple elk burger changed my mind forever.

Since then, ground elk has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s not just for hunters or outdoor enthusiasts anymore. Thanks to online meat delivery services and specialty butchers, it’s easier than ever to find high-quality ground elk right from your kitchen in the city. And once you start cooking with it, you’ll see why so many home cooks are making the switch.

Not only is it packed with protein and lower in fat than beef, but it also holds up beautifully in all kinds of recipes—from hearty chili to stuffed peppers and even meatballs. Plus, it absorbs spices and seasonings like a dream, making it perfect for bold, flavorful dishes.

In this post, I’m sharing 10 of my all-time favorite ground elk recipes—dishes that have become family favorites, weeknight go-tos, and even crowd-pleasers at dinner parties. These are the kinds of meals that get requested again and again, the kind that make you say, “Why haven’t I been cooking with elk this whole time?”

So grab your apron, fire up your skillet, and let’s dive into some seriously satisfying ground elk magic.

Why Ground Elk?

Before we get to the recipes, let’s talk about why ground elk is so awesome. It’s leaner than beef, with a protein punch that makes it a great choice for health-conscious folks. Plus, it’s versatile—think burgers, meatballs, tacos, and more. 

The flavor is robust but not overpowering, and it pairs beautifully with bold spices, fresh herbs, or even a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned elk enthusiast or a first-timer, these recipes will show you just how delicious it can be.

Read Also: Ground Elk Quesadillas Recipe

1. Ground Elk Meatballs with Marinara

There’s something so comforting about a plate of meatballs smothered in marinara sauce. These ground elk meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for serving over spaghetti or as an appetizer at your next gathering. I love how the elk’s rich flavor shines through, especially when paired with a tangy, homemade marinara.

Read Also: Ground Elk Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground elk, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat!
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish, pour marinara sauce over them, and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Serve with spaghetti or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Read Also: Baked Chicken Meatballs with Spaghetti Squash Recipe

2. Ground Elk Tacos with Chili-Lime Crema

Tacos are my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner, and these ground elk tacos are a hit with my family. The ground elk takes on smoky spices beautifully, and the chili-lime crema adds a zesty kick. They’re perfect for taco night or a casual get-together with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder (for crema)
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground elk until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. In a small mixing bowl, mix sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder to make the crema.
4. Warm corn tortillas in the skillet or microwave.
5. Assemble tacos with elk, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and a drizzle of crema.

Tips

• Swap corn tortillas for flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.
• Add diced avocado for a creamy twist.

Read Also: Chimichurri Steak Tacos Recipe

3. Ground Elk Chili

Nothing says comfort food like a steaming bowl of chili, and this ground elk version is a total winner. It’s hearty, packed with beans and spices, and perfect for chilly evenings. I love making a big batch in my slow cooker and freezing leftovers for quick meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth

Equipment

• Dutch oven or slow cooker
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground elk with onion and garlic until browned, about 8 minutes.
2. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
3. Stir in kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. Serve with sour cream, cheddar cheese, or green onions.

Tips

• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat.
• Pair with cornbread for a classic combo.

Read Also: Easy Healthy Crockpot Chili Recipe

4. Ground Elk Burgers

Burgers are a summer staple at my house, and these ground elk burgers are always a crowd-pleaser. The elk’s bold flavor pairs perfectly with classic toppings, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. Fire up the grill or use a cast-iron skillet for a juicy, delicious patty.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• Lettuce, tomato, and onion for topping
• Mayonnaise and ketchup

Equipment

• Grill or cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground elk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently.
2. Form into 4 patties, making a slight indent in the center to prevent puffing.
3. Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat.
4. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, adding cheddar cheese during the last minute.
5. Toast hamburger buns lightly, then assemble with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayonnaise, and ketchup.

Tips

• Don’t press down on the patties while cooking to keep them juicy.
• Add bacon for an extra indulgent twist.

Read Also: Turkey Burger Lettuce Wraps

5. Ground Elk Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes bring back so many childhood memories, and this ground elk version is a grown-up take that’s just as messy and delicious. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the elk’s robust flavor, making it a hit for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 hamburger buns

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground elk with onion and green bell pepper until browned, about 8 minutes.
2. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
4. Serve on toasted hamburger buns.

Tips

• Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve with coleslaw for a crunchy side.

Read Also: Healthy Sloppy Joe Recipe

6. Ground Elk Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is one of those dishes that just screams comfort, and using ground elk gives it a rich, hearty twist. The creamy mashed potatoes on top and the savory elk filling make this a perfect family dinner for cooler evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground elk with onion, carrots, and garlic until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add peas and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spread mashed potatoes evenly on top, and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips

• Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
• Swap peas for corn or green beans for variety.

Read Also: Healthy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

7. Ground Elk Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a fun way to turn ground elk into a colorful, hearty meal. These are packed with rice, veggies, and spices, and they look as good as they taste. I love how the elk adds a robust flavor that makes these peppers stand out.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a skillet, cook ground elk with onion and garlic until browned, about 8 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine elk mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Stuff the peppers with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each pepper.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 10 more minutes until cheese is melted.

Tips

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a nutrient boost.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Read Also: Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers Recipe

8. Ground Elk Bolognese

A rich, meaty Bolognese sauce is one of my favorite ways to elevate a pasta night, and ground elk makes it extra special. This slow-simmered sauce is perfect for cozy dinners and freezes beautifully for future meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 lb pappardelle pasta
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Pot for pasta

Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground elk with onion, carrot, celery, and garlic until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add red wine (if using) and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in milk and simmer for another 10 minutes.
6. Cook pappardelle pasta in a pot according to package instructions. Drain and toss with the sauce.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips

• Substitute red wine with beef broth if preferred.
• Freeze extra sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Read Also: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

9. Ground Elk Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter option, these ground elk lettuce wraps are a fantastic choice. They’re packed with Asian-inspired flavors, quick to make, and perfect for a healthy dinner or appetizer. The crisp lettuce pairs beautifully with the savory elk filling.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 8 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground elk with onion and garlic until browned, about 8 minutes.
2. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
3. Spoon the elk mixture into lettuce leaves.
4. Top with green onions and cilantro before serving.

Tips

• Add chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch.
• Serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping.

Read Also: Asian Chicken Lettuce Cups Recipe

10. Ground Elk Breakfast Sausage Patties

Breakfast just got a whole lot tastier with these ground elk sausage patties. They’re seasoned to perfection and make a great addition to your morning routine, whether paired with eggs or tucked into a breakfast sandwich. I love making a batch ahead for quick breakfasts during the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground elk
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground elk, fennel seeds, sage, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently.
2. Form into 8 small patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with eggs or on a breakfast sandwich.

Tips

• Freeze uncooked patties in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Pair with maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo.

Read Also: Air Fryer Eggs Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I substitute ground elk with another meat?

Yes, you can swap ground elk with ground beef, ground turkey, or ground venison. Keep in mind that elk is leaner, so you may need to adjust cooking times or add a bit of olive oil to prevent dryness with other meats.

2. How do I store leftover ground elk dishes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave or skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

3. Where can I buy ground elk?

You can find ground elk at specialty butcher shops, local farmers’ markets, or online retailers like Amazon. Some grocery stores also carry it in the frozen section.

4. Is ground elk healthy?

Absolutely! Ground elk is low in fat, high in protein, and rich in nutrients like iron and zinc. It’s a great choice for those looking to cut down on saturated fat without sacrificing flavor.

5. How do I prevent ground elk from drying out?

Since ground elk is lean, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety. Adding ingredients like eggs or breadcrumbs in recipes like meatballs helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

Cooking with ground elk has been such a fun adventure in my kitchen. Its rich, versatile flavor makes it a fantastic base for everything from cozy meatballs to spicy tacos. These recipes are perfect for home cooks who want to try something new while keeping things simple and delicious. I hope you’ll give them a try and let me know how they turn out in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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