A Hearty Taste of Tradition
There’s something deeply comforting about old fashioned venison sausage recipes. Growing up in an Italian household, we didn’t hunt—but when the neighbors shared their deer harvest, Nonna would always whip up something unforgettable. This is one of those rustic delights that brings together robust flavor, wild spirit, and timeless cooking techniques. 🏕️
In this guide, we’re diving deep into making venison sausage the old school way—packed with flavor, heritage, and soul.
🧂 What Makes Old Fashioned Venison Sausage Recipes So Special?
Old fashioned venison sausage recipes aren’t just about mixing meat with spices. They’re a journey into slow food, where every step—from grinding the venison to stuffing the casing—is steeped in tradition. With the rise of store-bought everything, homemade sausage feels like a delicious rebellion.
Whether you’re preparing for hunting season or stocking your freezer with flavor, this guide has you covered.
🧑🍳 Ingredients for Classic Old Fashioned Venison Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare one of the best old fashioned venison sausage recipes around:
📝 For 4 lbs of Sausage:
3 lbs ground venison (chilled)
1 lb pork fat (essential for juiciness)
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️
1 tbsp fennel seeds (toasted)
1 tsp garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
1 tsp sugar or brown sugar
1/4 cup cold water or red wine (traditional twist 🍷)
Natural hog casings (rinsed)
🛠️ Equipment You’ll Need
Making old fashioned venison sausage recipes at home? You’ll need a few key tools:
Meat grinder with coarse and fine plates
Sausage stuffer (or stuffing attachment)
Large mixing bowl
Meat thermometer
Freezer-safe storage bags or vacuum sealer
🕒 Preparation Steps: From Field to Fork
🥶 Step 1: Chill Your Meat
Always keep your venison and pork fat cold. This ensures a better grind and avoids smearing.
⚙️ Step 2: Grind the Meats
Grind the venison and pork fat together using the coarse plate. For better texture, grind twice. Old fashioned venison sausage recipes often involve a double grind for a more uniform bite.
🧂 Step 3: Mix with Seasonings
In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with all your spices, sugar, and water or wine. Knead by hand until it feels tacky—this means the myosin is working, and your sausage will bind well.
🌭 Step 4: Stuffing the Casings
Fit your sausage stuffer and carefully stuff the mixture into hog casings. Don’t overstuff—aim for firm but flexible links. Twist into 6-inch sausages.
❄️ Step 5: Rest & Cure (Optional)
Let the sausages rest in the fridge uncovered overnight. This helps flavors develop and allows skins to dry slightly—ideal for grilling.
🔥 Cooking Methods for Old Fashioned Venison Sausage Recipes
Whether grilled, smoked, or pan-fried, these sausages deliver big flavor. Always cook to an internal temp of 160°F (71°C).
🍳 Pan-Fried:
Add a touch of oil, cook over medium heat until browned on all sides.
🔥 Grilled:
Perfect over medium-high coals, turning frequently for even char.
🌬️ Smoked:
For that extra old-world feel, smoke over hickory or applewood chips at 200°F (93°C) until done.
❄️ How to Store Homemade Venison Sausage
Old fashioned venison sausage recipes make great freezer staples!
Fridge: Store uncooked links for 2-3 days.
Freezer: Wrap in butcher paper or vacuum seal—keeps for 6 months easily.
🧄 Variations on Old Fashioned Venison Sausage Recipes
🌿 Italian Herb Style
Add oregano, basil, and red wine for a rustic Italian spin.
🔥 Cajun Kick
Include cayenne, thyme, and smoked paprika for Southern flair.
🍁 Maple Breakfast
Mix in maple syrup, sage, and nutmeg for a sweet morning sausage.
Each one is a new way to celebrate the versatility of old fashioned venison sausage recipes.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Pair these sausages with:
Creamy polenta
Sautéed wild mushrooms 🍄
Mustard mashed potatoes
Homemade sauerkraut
Rustic bread and a sharp cheese board
🔁 Final Thoughts: Why We Keep Coming Back to Old Fashioned Venison Sausage Recipes
There’s a reason old fashioned venison sausage recipes are still passed down through generations. They connect us to a simpler time, to the earth, and to the joy of crafting something truly yours.
🦌 So the next time you’re gifted with a bit of venison—or lucky enough to harvest your own—remember this recipe. Make it your tradition, too.
🗨️ Tell Me What You Think!
Have your own twist on old fashioned venison sausage recipes? Drop your ideas in the comments! I’d love to hear how you’re making this tradition your own 💬🍽️