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Smoked Deer Sausage

Smoked deer sausage is a hearty, protein-rich wild game recipe packed with bold, smoky flavor and rustic charm. This venison-based sausage is slow-smoked to juicy perfection and makes an ideal meal for outdoor lovers or anyone looking to enjoy flavorful, homemade sausage. A must-try for fans of wild game cooking and traditional smoking techniques.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Course: Sausage Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 5 lbs ground venison lean deer meat for best flavor
  • 2.5 lbs beef fat or fatty beef chuck
  • 3 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2 tsp Prague Powder #1 curing salt
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup ice-cold water
  • Natural hog casings soaked in warm water
  • Fresh rosemary optional for garnish or smoking aroma

Method
 

  1. Keep venison and beef fat chilled before grinding to maintain texture and reduce smearing.
  2. Grind meat using a coarse plate to achieve the traditional smoked deer sausage consistency.
  3. Combine all spices, Prague Powder, and water with the ground meat and mix until tacky.
  4. Stuff the seasoned mixture into soaked casings and twist into 6–8 inch links.
  5. Dry the sausages at room temperature or in a fridge for 1–2 hours to help smoke adhere.
  6. Smoke the deer sausage at 165°F using hickory or apple wood for 3–4 hours.
  7. Cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption (check USDA guidelines).
  8. Let the sausages rest after smoking to develop full flavor and firm texture before serving.
  9. Slice and serve your smoked deer sausage with classic sides like mashed potatoes or sauerkraut.

Notes

  • Use the beef chuck if beef fat is unavailable to maintain a moist texture.
  • Apple wood gives a sweet, mellow smoke that pairs well with venison.
  • Vacuum seal leftover sausage for long-term freezer storage.
  • Let sausage cool slightly before slicing to keep juices intact.
  • Try adding cheddar or jalapeños to the mix for a bold variation.