20 Savory Elk Roast Recipes for Hearty Meals

As the seasons change and winter’s chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty, savory elk roast. With its rich flavor and tender texture, elk is the perfect protein to feature in your next meal. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these 20 elk roast recipes will have you covered.

From classic pairings like garlic butter and red wine sauce, to more adventurous options like spicy chili rubs and balsamic glazes, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you. And with a range of cooking methods from slow-cooking to smoking, there’s something for every skill level and taste bud. So why wait? Let’s dive into the world of elk roast recipes and get ready to sink your teeth into some truly unforgettable meals.

Herb-Crusted Elk Roast with Garlic Butter

Herb-Crusted Elk Roast with Garlic Butter
Elevate your game day gathering or special occasion with this show-stopping Herb-Crusted Elk Roast, served with a rich and aromatic Garlic Butter.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb 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 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and place in the oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with additional minced garlic.
7. Remove the elk roast from the oven and brush with Garlic Butter during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Slow-Cooked Elk Roast with Red Wine Sauce

Slow-Cooked Elk Roast with Red Wine Sauce
Perfectly tender elk roast smothered in a rich, fruity red wine sauce – perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sear the elk roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the elk roast to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the meat.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour the sauce over the elk roast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Smoked Elk Roast with Rosemary and Thyme

Smoked Elk Roast with Rosemary and Thyme
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked elk with the earthy aromas of rosemary and thyme, resulting in a tender and savory roast perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rub the elk roast with olive oil, then sprinkle with chopped rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the elk roast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Elk Roast with Mushroom Gravy and Onions

Elk Roast with Mushroom Gravy and Onions
Experience the rich flavor of elk paired with a savory mushroom gravy and caramelized onions.

Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add sliced onions to the pot. Cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add mushrooms and garlic to the pot; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
6. Add beef broth and red wine (if using) to the pot; bring to a simmer.
7. Return elk roast to the pot; cover with lid.
8. Roast in preheated oven for 2-3 hours or until elk reaches desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Spicy Elk Roast with Chili and Cumin Rub

Spicy Elk Roast with Chili and Cumin Rub
Elevate your game day gatherings with this bold and aromatic elk roast, infused with the warmth of chili peppers and the earthiness of cumin.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs elk roast (such as tenderloin or shoulder)
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, 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: 20-25 minutes

Elk Roast with Balsamic Glaze and Caramelized Vegetables

Elk Roast with Balsamic Glaze and Caramelized Vegetables
Elevate your game with this rich and flavorful elk roast recipe, perfectly paired with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze and caramelized vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and brown sugar.
4. Rub the glaze all over the elk roast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Place elk roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. While the elk is cooking, toss sliced vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
8. After the elk has roasted for about an hour, add the caramelized vegetables to the pan and continue roasting until both are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Garlic and Herb Marinated Elk Roast

Garlic and Herb Marinated Elk Roast
Garlic and Herb Marinated Elk Roast Recipe

A flavorful and tender elk roast infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, herbs, and spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the elk roast to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
4. Remove the elk from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting.
5. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven. Roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Cranberry and Orange Sauce

Elk Roast with Cranberry and Orange Sauce
This classic elk roast recipe is elevated by the tangy sweetness of cranberries and orange, making it a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion. With minimal preparation time and tender results, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, orange juice, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the elk roast with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and spoon the cranberry mixture over the top.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours for a 3-pound roast.

Roasted Elk with Root Vegetables and Herbs

Roasted Elk with Root Vegetables and Herbs
Elevate your game with this hearty and flavorful roasted elk recipe, paired with a medley of root vegetables and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped onion, carrots, parsnips, and turnips; toss to coat.
3. Place the elk roast on a roasting rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the root vegetables around the roast.
4. Sprinkle thyme and rosemary sprigs over the roast.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Elk Roast with Mustard and Horseradish Crust

Elk Roast with Mustard and Horseradish Crust
A savory and aromatic elk roast recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a rustic dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard and horseradish until well combined.
3. Rub the elk roast with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the mustard-horseradish mixture evenly over the roast, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Roll the roast in breadcrumbs to coat, gently pressing crumbs onto the meat to adhere.
6. Place the roast on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Red Currant Jelly and Fresh Herbs

Elk Roast with Red Currant Jelly and Fresh Herbs
Savor the bold flavors of elk paired with the sweet-tartness of red currant jelly, perfectly balanced by a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup red currant jelly
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together red currant jelly and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Rub the elk roast with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and brush the red currant glaze all over the meat.
5. Sprinkle thyme and rosemary sprigs evenly around the roast.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the elk reaches desired level of doneness (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Port Wine Reduction

Elk Roast with Port Wine Reduction
Elk Roast with Port Wine Reduction Recipe

Summary: Elevate your elk roast game with this rich and flavorful port wine reduction, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup port wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the elk roast to a roasting pan and add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. Pour in the port wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
5. Roast the elk for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. During the last 10 minutes of roasting, add the butter to the pan and spoon some of the port wine reduction over the elk.
7. Let the elk rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Elk Roast with Creamy Horseradish Sauce
Experience the rich flavor of elk roast paired with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream
– 1/4 cup horseradish sauce
– 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 on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a roasting pan.
4. Roast the elk in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the elk is cooking, mix the cream and horseradish sauce in a small bowl.
6. Serve the roasted elk with the creamy horseradish sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Roasted Garlic and Shallots

Elk Roast with Roasted Garlic and Shallots
A hearty and flavorful recipe perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) elk roast, bone-in
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 4 shallots, peeled and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, toss garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the garlic mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the garlic for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the elk roast by seasoning it with salt, black pepper, and red wine (if using).
6. Place the elk roast in the oven alongside the roasted garlic for about 1 1/2 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. About 20 minutes before the elk is finished, add the halved shallots to the roasting pan and continue to roast until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours

Elk Roast with Sweet and Tangy BBQ Glaze

Elk Roast with Sweet and Tangy BBQ Glaze
Experience the rich flavor of elk paired with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the glaze all over the elk roast, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan or Dutch oven and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Elk Roast with Wild Mushroom Stuffing

Elk Roast with Wild Mushroom Stuffing
Savor the rich flavors of the wild with this hearty elk roast, filled with an earthy mixture of wild mushrooms and herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup wild mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, and paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Stuff the center of the roast with the wild mushroom duxelles.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and add chicken broth to the bottom of the pan.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: Wild mushroom duxelles can be made by sautéing a mix of dried wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, porcini, and oyster) with onions, garlic, and herbs until fragrant and earthy. Alternatively, use store-bought wild mushroom duxelles or substitute with sautéed button mushrooms.

Elk Roast with Maple and Dijon Glaze

Elk Roast with Maple and Dijon Glaze
Elevate your game with this sweet and tangy elk roast recipe, perfect for a special occasion or rustic dinner gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Rub the glaze all over the elk roast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes

Elk Roast with Fresh Herb Butter

Elk Roast with Fresh Herb Butter
Elk Roast with Fresh Herb Butter Recipe

This recipe brings out the rich flavor of elk roast by pairing it with a bright and herbaceous butter made from fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season the elk roast with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and dill until well combined.
4. Place the elk roast in a roasting pan and dot the top with the herb butter.
5. Roast the elk for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the elk rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes

Elk Roast with Roasted Potatoes and Carrots

Elk Roast with Roasted Potatoes and Carrots
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 (2-3 pound) elk roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or sage)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the elk roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the elk for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the elk is roasting, toss the sliced onion and minced garlic with a pinch of salt and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the baking sheet with the onions and continue roasting for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes total cooking time.

Elk Roast with Spiced Apple Chutney

Elk Roast with Spiced Apple Chutney
A hearty, gamey elk roast pairs perfectly with a sweet and spicy apple chutney, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs elk roast (boneless)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 cup spiced apple chutney (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the elk roast on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
5. Roast the elk for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the apple chutney all over the elk roast.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Spiced Apple Chutney:

– 2 apples, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until the apples are tender. Let cool before using.

Summary

Get ready to elevate your mealtime game with these 20 savory elk roast recipes! From classic comfort food to innovative twists, this collection has something for every taste and occasion. Try a herb-crusted roast with garlic butter, slow-cooked in red wine sauce, or smothered in mushroom gravy and onions. Or, go bold with spicy rubs, sweet glazes, and tangy sauces. With options ranging from simple to elaborate, you’ll find the perfect recipe to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, these elk roast recipes are sure to become new favorites.

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