Are you looking for a unique and flavorful centerpiece for your next special occasion? Look no further than elk roast! This tender and lean cut of meat is perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or even just a cozy night in with family and friends. In this article, we’ll explore 20 savory elk roast recipes that are sure to impress.
From classic herb-crusted roasts to bold and adventurous flavor combinations, these recipes showcase the best of elk’s rich flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, you’ll find inspiration in these mouthwatering dishes. So let’s get started!
Herb-Crusted Elk Roast with Garlic Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful herb-crusted elk roast, infused with the savory goodness of garlic butter. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and dot the top with softened butter.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked Elk Roast with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful slow-cooked elk roast, paired with a velvety red wine reduction. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs elk roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. In a saucepan, reduce red wine by half over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally (about 15-20 minutes).
6. Stir in beef broth and add to the slow cooker. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve with fresh thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours or overnight
Smoked Elk Roast with Rosemary and Thyme
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked elk with the aromatic essence of rosemary and thyme, creating a truly unforgettable dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 6 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs on top of the roast.
5. Smoke the elk for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Elk Roast with Wild Mushroom Gravy
Elk Roast with Wild Mushroom Gravy: A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of elk with the earthy flavor of wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add mixed wild mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
6. Add beef broth, tomato paste, and flour to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the elk roast to the pot and cover with a lid. Transfer to the preheated oven and roast for 2-3 hours or until the meat reaches desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spiced Elk Roast with Juniper Berries
Experience the bold flavors of the great outdoors with this hearty elk roast recipe, infused with the piney sweetness of juniper berries and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup juniper berries, crushed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of a large Dutch oven or roasting pan.
5. Position the elk roast on top of the onion mixture.
6. Sprinkle the crushed juniper berries over the roast.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your game with this rich and flavorful elk roast recipe, perfectly complemented by sweet caramelized onions and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and cook the sliced onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and garlic.
7. Brush the balsamic glaze over the elk roast during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Roast the elk in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Elk Roast with Root Vegetables
A sweet and savory celebration of elk’s rich flavor, paired with the comforting warmth of roasted root vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the glaze all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. After the first hour of cooking, add the chopped carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potato to the roasting pan.
7. Continue to roast for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the root vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Cranberry and Orange Sauce
This hearty elk roast recipe combines the rich flavor of wild game with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries and orange. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy winter dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, orange marmalade, and garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. While the roast is cooking, combine cranberries, orange juice, and thyme in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with the warm cranberry and orange sauce.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Roasted Elk with Garlic and Herb Rub
Elevate your elk cooking game with this flavorful roasted recipe, perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of garlic, herbs, and rich elk meat will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) elk roast
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, fat side up (if applicable).
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the elk rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Elk Roast with Red Currant Jelly and Port Wine Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the wild with this impressive elk roast recipe, elevated by a sweet and tangy red currant jelly glaze and a luxurious port wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup red currant jelly
– 1/4 cup port wine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together red currant jelly, port wine, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper. Place it in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Brush the red currant glaze all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Roast the elk for 2-1/2 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the elk rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with additional port wine sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Elk Roast with Dijon Mustard and Fresh Herbs
Elevate your game day gatherings or special occasion meals with this flavorful elk roast recipe, featuring the tanginess of Dijon mustard and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and olive oil.
3. Rub the elk roast with salt and pepper, then brush with the mustard mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Stuff the roast with garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Elk Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce
Perfectly seasoned elk roast paired with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce makes for a mouth-watering main course. This recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup horseradish cream sauce (see below for recipe)
Horseradish Cream Sauce:
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the horseradish cream sauce by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl.
7. Serve the elk roast with the warm horseradish cream sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
This hearty elk roast recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary to create a savory and aromatic main course perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lbs elk roast
– 4-5 cloves of garlic, separated and peeled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the roasted garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the elk rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the elk roast.
Elk Roast with Blueberry and Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your holiday dinner with this unique and flavorful elk roast recipe, paired with a rich blueberry and red wine sauce. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, red wine, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve the elk roast with the warm blueberry and red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Elk Roast with Smoked Paprika and Cumin Rub
This recipe brings out the bold flavors of elk with a warm and aromatic spice rub, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of smoked paprika and cumin adds a rich depth to the roast, making it a standout dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Carrot and Parsnip Puree
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of elk roast with the sweet and earthy taste of carrot and parsnip puree, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) elk roast
– 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the elk roast with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a roasting pan.
4. Roast the elk for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the elk is cooking, toss the chopped carrots and parsnips with salt and pepper in a separate pan. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid. Steam over low heat until tender, about 20 minutes.
6. Mash the cooked carrots and parsnips together with butter or cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Cherry and Red Wine Reduction
A classic combination of gamey elk and rich cherry flavors, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The sweet and tangy cherry reduction pairs beautifully with the bold flavor of the elk roast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1 cup cherry jam
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Season the elk roast with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and add the cherry jam, red wine, and brown sugar.
5. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the elk reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Baste with the reduction sauce every 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Roast with Herb Butter and Roasted Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of elk roast paired with a fragrant herb butter and crispy roasted potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Rub the herb butter all over the elk roast, making sure to cover evenly.
4. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
5. Place the potatoes in a separate bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Roast the elk in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Toss the potatoes with olive oil and continue roasting for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Elk Roast with Shallot and Mushroom Sauce
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe pairs the rich gamey taste of elk roast with a savory shallot and mushroom sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Season elk roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear elk roast for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven.
4. Cook elk roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. While elk roast cooks, sauté garlic, shallot, and mushrooms in a skillet over medium heat until softened.
6. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve elk roast with shallot and mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes total cooking time, including prep and roasting.
Elk Roast with Pomegranate Molasses Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk roast with the sweet and tangy taste of pomegranate molasses, creating a truly unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs elk roast
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze mixture all over the elk roast, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the elk roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these mouth-watering elk roast recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic herb-crusted roasts to bold and adventurous flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing tender elk with savory garlic butter, or go big with a slow-cooked red wine reduction. Maybe you prefer the smoky flavor of rosemary and thyme or the sweetness of caramelized onions and balsamic glaze. Whatever your taste, these 20 recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.