Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Patties bring a unique twist to classic burger patties. These savory patties, made with lean ground venison, feature a bold kick from fresh jalapeños and a rich creaminess from cheddar cheese. They’re perfect for anyone looking to enjoy wild game in a flavorful and satisfying way. Whether served on a bun as a gourmet burger or as a standalone dish with your favorite sides, these patties offer a mouthwatering experience. The combination of venison’s natural gamey flavor, the spice of jalapeños, and the sharpness of cheddar makes for an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
For the Patties:
- 1 pound ground venison
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground venison, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until they are well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this could make the patties tough.
2. Form the Patties:
- Shape the mixture into patties that are about 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 4-6 patties depending on the size you prefer.
3. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of meat sizzles when placed in it.
4. Fry the Patties:
- Carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety.
5. Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, or turn them into burgers by placing them on buns with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and extra jalapeños.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 25 minutes
kcal per Serving:
- Approximately 240 kcal per patty
Tips:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer spicier patties, keep the seeds in the jalapeños or use a hotter pepper variety. For a milder taste, reduce the jalapeños or remove all seeds.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can grill these patties instead. Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Make Ahead: The patties can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together, making them even more delicious.
- Toppings: Add additional toppings such as sautéed onions, guacamole, or sour cream to enhance the flavor of your patties.
- Side Suggestions: Serve with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Benefits:
- Low in Fat: Venison is leaner than most traditional red meats, making these patties a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
- High in Protein: Venison is packed with protein, making these patties perfect for anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and Worcestershire sauce adds layers of flavor, making each bite rich and satisfying.
- Wild Game Benefits: Eating wild game like venison is often more sustainable, as it typically involves free-range, grass-fed animals without the use of hormones or antibiotics.
FAQs:
1. Can I substitute venison with another type of meat?
Yes, ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be used as a substitute if you don’t have venison on hand. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, as venison has a unique, gamey taste.
2. How do I make the patties less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can remove all the seeds from the jalapeños or use a milder pepper. Additionally, you could replace jalapeños with green bell peppers for a non-spicy option.
3. Can these patties be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
4. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Make sure to use an egg as a binder and avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can cause the patties to become crumbly. Chilling the patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape better.
5. What can I serve with Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Patties?
These patties go great with a side of roasted vegetables, baked beans, or even a light potato salad. For a burger-style presentation, serve with lettuce, tomato, and a soft bun.
Conclusion:
Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Patties offer a delightful fusion of flavors, bringing together the earthiness of venison, the creamy tang of cheddar, and the fiery kick of jalapeños. Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress, these patties are not only easy to make but also versatile. Serve them as burgers, on their own, or even paired with your favorite sides, and enjoy the benefits of a lean, protein-packed meal that’s full of flavor.
