When it comes to hosting a gourmet dinner, you want to impress your guests with a dish that’s both flavorful and visually stunning. One way to do just that is by serving elk tenderloin, a lean and gamey meat that’s perfect for a special occasion. With its rich flavor profile, elk tenderloin lends itself well to a variety of seasonings and sauces, making it a versatile ingredient for any cook.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory elk tenderloin recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. From classic combinations like garlic butter and roasted vegetables to more adventurous pairings like juniper berry and rosemary, there’s something on this list for everyone. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, read on to discover the perfect elk tenderloin recipe for your next gourmet dinner.
Herb-Crusted Elk Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this impressive and flavorful dish that combines the richness of elk tenderloin with a tangy red wine reduction. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Season the elk tenderloin with salt and pepper. Rub the herb mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. While the tenderloin is cooking, reduce the red wine and beef broth in a saucepan over medium heat until the liquid has almost completely evaporated, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the herb-crusted elk tenderloin with the reduced red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Elk Tenderloin with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the bold flavor of elk tenderloin with the comfort of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large Brussels sprout, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the elk tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tenderloin.
4. Roast the sweet potato, carrot, and Brussels sprout in separate pans with 1-2 tbsp of oil, until tender (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Place the elk tenderloin in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve the garlic butter elk tenderloin with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Juniper Berry and Rosemary Elk Tenderloin
Elevate your game with this aromatic and flavorful elk tenderloin recipe, infused with the bold flavors of juniper berries and rosemary. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a rustic dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 2 tbsp juniper berry jam
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together juniper berry jam and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the elk reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Elk Tenderloin with Cherry Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked elk tenderloin with a sweet and tangy cherry glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a unique dinner experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 1 cup cherry jam
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (e.g., hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cherry jam, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the elk tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the tenderloin in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Brush the cherry glaze all over the tenderloin during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Elk Tenderloin Medallions with Mushroom Cream Sauce
A rich and savory dish that showcases the tender flavors of elk tenderloins, paired with a decadent mushroom cream sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk tenderloin medallions (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk medallions with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk medallions for 2 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, cook mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme; simmer until sauce thickens.
5. Serve elk medallions with mushroom cream sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time:
– Elk tenderloins: 12-15 minutes
– Mushroom cream sauce: 10-12 minutes
Black Pepper and Thyme Grilled Elk Tenderloin
This recipe is a perfect blend of bold flavors and tender texture, making it a show-stopping addition to any outdoor gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 elk tenderloin (6-8 oz)
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together black pepper and thyme.
3. Season the elk tenderloin with salt and then coat evenly with the black pepper-thyme mixture.
4. Brush the tenderloin with olive oil and place on the grill.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F – 135°F for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Balsamic Glazed Elk Tenderloin with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant and flavorful recipe, featuring tender elk tenderloin glazed with rich balsamic vinegar and paired with sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season elk tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in the same skillet over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
5. Brush balsamic glaze over elk tenderloin during its last 2 minutes of roasting.
6. Serve elk tenderloin with caramelized onions and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Elk Tenderloin Stroganoff with Sour Cream and Dill
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk tenderloin with the creamy tanginess of sour cream and the freshness of dill, creating a delightful twist on the classic Beef Stroganoff. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 elk tenderloin (6 oz), trimmed
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 8 oz sour cream
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the elk tenderloin with paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the elk in butter until browned, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened, then add mushrooms and cook until tender.
5. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in sour cream and chopped dill.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Currant and Port Wine Elk Tenderloin
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk tenderloin with the sweetness of red currants and the depth of port wine, creating a truly unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk tenderloins (6 oz each)
– 1 cup red currants
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine red currants, port wine, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Season elk tenderloins with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat. Sear elk tenderloins for 1-2 minutes per side.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes or until desired doneness.
7. Brush red currant-port wine glaze over elk during the last minute of cooking.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Elk Tenderloin with Blue Cheese and Walnut Crust
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and savory recipe that combines the richness of elk tenderloin with the pungency of blue cheese and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 elk tenderloins (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blue cheese, walnuts, and garlic.
3. Season elk tenderloins with salt and pepper.
4. Coat each tenderloin with the blue cheese-walnut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear tenderloins for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until elk reaches desired doneness (medium-rare).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Maple-Glazed Elk Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this impressive and flavorful dish featuring tender elk tenderloin glazed in a sweet maple syrup, paired with roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 elk tenderloin (6-8 oz)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze all over the elk tenderloin, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the glazed elk tenderloin with roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Elk Tenderloin Carpaccio with Truffle Oil and Arugula
Elk Tenderloin Carpaccio with Truffle Oil and Arugula Recipe
Summary: A luxurious take on the classic Italian dish, this recipe features tender elk tenderloin thinly sliced and served with peppery arugula, truffle oil, and a touch of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat the refrigerator to its coldest setting.
2. Slice the elk tenderloin into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together truffle oil and a pinch of salt.
4. Arrange the arugula on a plate or platter.
5. Place the elk carpaccio slices over the arugula.
6. Drizzle the truffle oil mixture over the elk.
7. Sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep and refrigeration)
Coffee-Rubbed Elk Tenderloin with Bourbon Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this unique and flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The bold flavors of coffee-rubbed elk tenderloin are perfectly balanced by the rich and velvety bourbon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 2 tbsp coffee grounds
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee grounds, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the elk tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the elk tenderloin for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the elk reaches desired doneness.
6. While the elk is cooking, whisk together bourbon whiskey, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve the coffee-rubbed elk tenderloin with the warm bourbon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elk Tenderloin Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the bold flavor of elk paired with the tangy zing of Argentinean chimichurri sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a unique dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread elk onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush chimichurri sauce evenly over the elk.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Elk Tenderloin with Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your dining experience with this savory and indulgent recipe, featuring tender elk tenderloin paired with creamy garlic mashed cauliflower. This flavorful combination is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 elk tenderloin (6-8 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season elk tenderloin with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear elk tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
3. Meanwhile, steam cauliflower florets until tender. In a blender or food processor, combine steamed cauliflower, softened butter, garlic, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve elk tenderloin with garlic mashed cauliflower.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elk Tenderloin Wellington with Puff Pastry
This elegant dish combines the rich flavor of elk tenderloin with the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the elk tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the tenderloin until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a large rectangle. Place the cooled elk tenderloin in the center of the pastry.
4. Fold the pastry over the tenderloin, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tsp water) and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Mustard and Honey Glazed Elk Tenderloin
Elevate your game meat cooking with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Mustard and Honey Glazed Elk Tenderloin. The perfect combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a rich, caramelized glaze that complements the tender and juicy elk perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) elk tenderloin
– 2 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp pure honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together dijon mustard and honey until smooth.
3. Season the elk tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the elk and rub it in evenly.
5. Brush the mustard-honey glaze all over the elk tenderloin.
6. Place the elk on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elk Tenderloin Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This recipe combines the rich flavor of elk tenderloin with the bold flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and stir-frying. The result is a savory and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb elk tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the elk strips and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned.
4. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the elk is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 savory elk tenderloin recipes, perfect for gourmet dinners. From herb-crusted delights to smoky BBQ-inspired dishes, and from rich cream sauces to bold glazes, there’s something for every palate. Explore unique flavor combinations like juniper berry and rosemary, coffee-rubbed with bourbon sauce, or maple-glazed with sweet potatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, these recipes will inspire you to create unforgettable meals.
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