Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the robust taste of venison, this Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake is perfect. Venison, known for its lean and gamey qualities, pairs wonderfully with creamy cheese and pasta for a meal that satisfies comfort food cravings without being too heavy. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights at home, this pasta bake is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

Ingredients for Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake

For the Pasta Bake:

• 1 pound ground venison
• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions for Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta

2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Venison

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the ground venison to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Make the Sauce

6. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, Alfredo sauce, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Combine Ingredients

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, venison mixture, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

8. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Top with Cheese

9. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 35 minutes

Total Time:

• 55 minutes

Kcal per Serving:

• Approximately 450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)

Tips for Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake

• Homemade Alfredo Sauce: For a fresher, more personalized touch, you can make your own Alfredo sauce by simmering heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese until thickened.
• Pasta Choices: Penne or rotini work well because they hold the sauce nicely, but any short pasta will do.
• Cheese Variety: Feel free to substitute or add other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a deeper flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Benefits of Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake

• Nutrient-Rich: Venison is a lean meat high in protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and iron, making this dish both filling and nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: This pasta bake is easy to prepare in advance and can be a great option for busy weeknights or large family dinners.
• Versatile Recipe: You can switch out the venison for other proteins like chicken, beef, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms for a different take on this recipe.

Conclusion

This Creamy Venison Alfredo Pasta Bake combines the best of comfort food with rich, savory flavors and the lean goodness of venison. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying blend of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful meat. Whether you’re new to cooking venison or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness and make it your go-to comfort dish for any occasion.

FAQs