We love diving into the world of wild game recipes, and our venison snack sticks with cheese are a game-changer for anyone craving a protein-packed treat. These savory sticks blend tender venison with gooey cheese for a flavorful twist on classic jerky, making them ideal for hikers or snack lovers on the move.
Originating from American hunting traditions, we’ve simplified this recipe to bring bold, rustic tastes right to your kitchen. It’s a fun way to use fresh venison while adding a cheesy kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Venison Snack Sticks with Cheese, we start by gathering high-quality ingredients that blend the lean, gamey richness of venison with the creamy melt of cheese. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically prepared and used, ensuring precision for the best results.
Venison and Cheese Base
- 2 pounds ground venison: Use freshly ground venison for a tender texture, ensuring it’s lean and free of excess fat to highlight its natural flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy contrast that melts perfectly into the mixture.
Seasonings and Binders
- 2 tablespoons sea salt: This enhances the meat’s inherent taste and aids in curing—measure accurately for food safety.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a spicy kick that complements the venison’s earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth; we recommend using pure, high-quality powder for optimal aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the richness without overpowering.
Additional Mix-Ins and Curing Agents
- ½ cup ice water: Keeps the mixture cool during blending to prevent the fat from smearing and ensure even curing.
- 2 teaspoons curing salt (pink salt): Essential for preservation and color—handle with care as directed for safety.
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped jalapeños: If you want a spicy twist, finely chop fresh jalapeños for added heat and texture.
These ingredients form the foundation of our recipe, drawing from traditional American hunting practices to deliver protein-packed snacks that are both nutritious and satisfying. For nutritional highlights, refer to the table below based on approximate values per serving (assuming 10 sticks):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 8% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Fat | 8g | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Sodium | 400mg | 17% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparations.
Tools and Equipment
To craft our venison snack sticks with cheese, we need the right tools and equipment for precise preparation and safe handling. These essentials ensure efficiency and help achieve that perfect texture and flavor profile. Below, we break down the key items, organized by category for easy reference.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We’ll start with the basics that every home cook should have on hand:
- Large Mixing Bowl: A sturdy, 4-quart bowl is ideal for combining ground venison, cheese, and seasonings. We recommend using one made of stainless steel for easy cleaning and to prevent any flavor absorption.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for seasoning balance. Opt for a set with both dry and liquid options to measure ingredients like ice water and spices precisely.
- Meat Grinder or Food Processor: If your venison isn’t pre-ground, this tool is non-negotiable. We suggest a grinder with various plates for achieving the right consistency in our venison snack sticks.
Specialized Equipment for Processing
These items elevate the recipe from simple mixing to professional results:
- Sausage Stuffer: Essential for filling casings or forming sticks uniformly. We prefer a manual or electric model that attaches to your mixer for smooth operation and to avoid air pockets that could affect texture.
- Dehydrator or Oven with Wire Racks: For drying the sticks to perfection, a dehydrator maintains consistent low heat. If using an oven, ensure it has a reliable thermometer to monitor temperatures around 165°F for food safety.
- Digital Kitchen Thermometer: Safety first—use this to check the internal temperature of the sticks. It helps us confirm they’re fully cooked and preserved, reducing risks associated with wild game.
Additional Handy Items
While not always mandatory, these enhance the process:
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: A large, non-porous board paired with a serrated knife makes quick work of any prep, like dicing optional jalapeños.
- Disposable Gloves: For hygienic handling of raw venison, we always use these to keep things clean and prevent cross-contamination.
By gathering these tools, we set ourselves up for success in creating delicious, homemade venison snack sticks with cheese. This preparation step seamlessly transitions us into the actual cooking process.
Instructions
We walk you through the essential steps to craft our flavorful venison snack sticks with cheese using the ingredients and tools we’ve gathered. Let’s transform fresh venison into a savory protein-packed snack that’s ideal for on-the-go adventures.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we dive in gather and prep your ingredients for efficiency. Start with 2 pounds of freshly ground venison—ensure it’s cold to maintain texture. Next shred 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese into fine pieces for even distribution then measure out seasonings including 1 tablespoon sea salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Add 1/4 cup ice water to keep the mixture cool and bind flavors plus 1 teaspoon curing salt for preservation. If you want a spicy kick slice 2 jalapeños into thin rings and set them aside. This preparation ensures our venison mixture blends seamlessly for a tender cheesy result.
Mix and Season
In a large mixing bowl combine the ground venison with the shredded cheese and measured seasonings for a harmonious blend. Add the ice water and curing salt then use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix thoroughly until the mixture feels uniform and slightly sticky—aim for about 2-3 minutes of kneading to release the savory aromas of garlic and onion that will make your snack sticks irresistible. If using incorporate the jalapeños at this stage for a fiery contrast that elevates the rich venison flavor ensuring every bite delivers a bold cheesy punch.
Form the Snack Sticks
Once mixed divide the venison mixture into manageable portions for easy handling. Load the mixture into your sausage stuffer or use a piping bag to form logs about 6 inches long and 1 inch thick—press firmly to create compact snack sticks that hold their shape. If you don’t have a stuffer shape them by hand on a clean surface then place them on a lined baking sheet. Space them 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking resulting in a satisfying chewy texture that highlights the gooey cheese within.
Cook the Snack Sticks
Preheat your dehydrator to 165°F or your oven to the same temperature for safe processing. Arrange the formed snack sticks on wire racks and cook for 4-6 hours monitoring with a digital thermometer until the internal temperature reaches 160°F—this step locks in the juicy venison essence while melting the cheese for a delectable smoky finish. Flip them halfway through to ensure uniform dehydration creating a perfect balance of tender meat and flavorful cheese that makes these sticks a nutritious favorite.
Cool and Store
After cooking remove the snack sticks from the heat and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour until they reach room temperature—this allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to set for an optimal savory bite. Once cooled store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months to preserve freshness. Always label with the date to track quality ensuring our venison snack sticks remain a reliable high-protein option for your active lifestyle.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help us maximize convenience and flavor with our venison snack sticks with cheese, we can prepare them in advance for easy snacking on busy days or outdoor adventures. This approach ensures the sticks retain their bold, rustic taste and high-protein profile while saving time. Let’s break down the steps for making ahead, focusing on preparation, storage, and reheating.
Preparing the Mixture in Advance
We start by mixing the ingredients ahead of time to streamline our cooking process. Begin with chilling the ground venison in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to keep it cold and easy to handle. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of freshly ground venison, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and seasonings like sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is uniform and slightly sticky. If adding optional jalapeños for spice, incorporate them now for even distribution.
Once mixed, portion the mixture into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, pressing out any air to prevent freezer burn. This step allows us to prepare up to 3 days in advance if refrigerating or up to 3 months if freezing the raw mixture. Always label the containers with the date and contents for safety.
Storing Cooked Snack Sticks
After following our step-by-step instructions to cook the snack sticks—forming them into logs, dehydrating or baking at 165°F until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F—we can store them for longer shelf life. Let the sticks cool completely on a wire rack before packaging.
For optimal storage, we recommend the following guidelines, summarized in the table below for quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions | Tips for Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | In an airtight container | Keep in a cool spot; consume within 7 days for best texture and flavor. |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months | In vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain moisture and prevent sogginess. |
This method preserves the tender venison and gooey cheese blend, ensuring our snack sticks remain a protein-rich option with approximately 15g of protein per serving.
Reheating and Serving Tips
When we’re ready to enjoy our make-ahead venison snack sticks with cheese, reheat frozen sticks in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, checking the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safety. For refrigerated sticks, simply bring them to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore that irresistible, savory aroma. These steps help us deliver a fresh, homemade taste every time, perfect for hikers or anyone seeking a quick, nutritious boost.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how venison snack sticks with cheese can elevate your snacking game. They’re not just tasty they’re a smart way to fuel our adventures while honoring hunting traditions.
By trying this recipe you’ll discover a versatile treat that’s easy to customize and packed with nutrition. Let’s make more homemade snacks that keep us energized and satisfied on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are venison snack sticks with cheese?
Venison snack sticks with cheese are a tasty, protein-packed snack made from ground venison mixed with shredded cheese and seasonings. They’re a modern twist on traditional jerky, offering a tender, flavorful bite that’s perfect for hikers or anyone seeking a nutritious on-the-go option, rooted in American hunting traditions.
What ingredients do I need for venison snack sticks with cheese?
You’ll need 2 pounds of ground venison, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, seasonings like sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, plus curing salt and ice water for texture and preservation. Optional add-ins include jalapeños for spice. This simple mix creates bold, rustic flavors.
How do I make venison snack sticks at home?
Start by mixing cold ground venison with cheese and seasonings in a bowl until uniform. Form into logs using a sausage stuffer or by hand, then cook in a dehydrator or oven at 165°F for 4-6 hours until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Cool and store for easy snacking.
What tools are required to prepare venison snack sticks?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups, a meat grinder or food processor, and a sausage stuffer. For cooking, use a dehydrator or oven with wire racks and a digital thermometer for safety. These items ensure precise preparation and great results.
How should I store venison snack sticks with cheese?
Store cooked snack sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months. For the mixture, chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months before cooking. This keeps them fresh and safe.
Are venison snack sticks with cheese healthy?
Yes, they’re nutritious, with each serving offering about 150 calories, 15g of protein, and 8g of fat. They’re a high-protein alternative to traditional snacks, making them ideal for an active lifestyle, though moderation is key due to the fat content.
Can I add variations or substitutions to the recipe?
Absolutely, you can swap cheeses like mozzarella for cheddar or add spices for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, include jalapeños. Always use fresh venison and follow food safety guidelines, but keep substitutions minimal to maintain the original taste and texture.