Venison chili is wonderful if you’re new to wild game cooking. It’s easy, delicious, and forgiving. It’s a staple in our home in the cooler months, and I’m sure you will love it too.

I Love Fall
It is absolutely my favorite season.
I look forward all year to that special morning when I step outside and the air has changed. Almost overnight the pressure has shifted and summer’s humidity has become crisp and cool. The light filters through the trees differently, throwing shadows where there weren’t any before. On that wonderful morning, even the smell of the world is different.
It’s Not Just the Weather That I Look Forward To
To me, Fall means
- hiking
- bonfires
- s’mores
- scarves
- boots
- being outside-football
- beautiful leaves
- pumpkins
- mountain trips
- hunting
- and of course…..chili
Chili is Serious Business
Around our house, chili is not something to be taken lightly. We experiment, add “secret” ingredients, and even have a family chili cook-off every year.
We like chili.
So since the first pot of the season was made on our trip to the mountains last weekend, I thought I would share one of our favorite recipes.
This is great to throw together in the morning and enjoy when you get home from work!
Venison Chili
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp lard or vegetable oil
- 1 diced yellow onion
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 2 lb ground venison (can substitute beef/turkey if you don’t hunt)
- 1 package fresh mushrooms
- 1 qt (28oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans
- 1 (15 oz) can chili magic beans
- 1 packet chili seasoning
- If you like it a little spicy add jalapenos or your favorite hot sauce (we like Frank’s-the hubs puts that **** on everything!)
Directions
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat
- Cook onions & peppers until soft
- Add mushrooms & meat
- Cook until meat is no longer pink, stirring occasionally with wooden spoon
- Drain any excess grease
- Pour the mixture into a crock pot
- Add tomatoes & their juice, beans, and seasoning
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours
- Enjoy!!
Serving Suggestions
- Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, pickled jalapeƱos, whatever your little heart desires
- spread over baked potato
- eat with cheesy toast or cornbread

Venison Chili
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp lard or vegetable oil
- 1 diced yellow onion
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 2 lb ground venison (can substitute beef/turkey if you don't hunt)
- 1 package fresh mushrooms
- 1 qt (28oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans
- 1 (15 oz) can chili magic beans
- 1 packet chili seasoning
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat
- Cook onions & peppers until soft
- Add mushrooms & meat
- Cook until meat is no longer pink, stirring occasionally with wooden spoon
- Drain any excess grease
- Pour the mixture into a crock pot
- Add tomatoes & their juice, beans, and seasoning
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours
Notes
This recipe could also be done in a dutch oven over a fire.
What are some ways that you celebrate this wonderful season??
Share in the comments section below!
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