Cubed Venison Gravy: A Hearty Comfort Dish for Every Beginner Cook

There’s something incredibly comforting about a rich, savory gravy poured generously over a mound of fluffy mashed potatoes. It brings back memories of family dinners, cozy gatherings, and the simple pleasure of homemade meals. For many, venison holds a special place in the heart—it’s more than just meat; it’s a connection to the outdoors, to tradition, and to the satisfaction of cooking something from scratch.

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This Cubed Venison Gravy recipe is the perfect introduction to cooking with venison, especially if you’re a beginner. It’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. In fact, if you’re using canned venison, it’s practically “fast food,” but with a wholesome, home-cooked feel. The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull it off. This recipe is simple, forgiving, and can be easily adjusted to your taste. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Beginners

• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples—flour, butter, broth, and venison.
• Quick Cooking Time: From start to finish, this dish takes just about 25 minutes.
• Flexible and Forgiving: Adjust the thickness, seasoning, and even the type of meat if needed.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even biscuits.

This recipe is all about making comfort food accessible, even if you’re just starting your culinary journey. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 tablespoons butter – for that rich, creamy base.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour – to create the roux that thickens the gravy.
• 3–4 cups beef broth – adds depth and savory flavor (use less for a thicker gravy, more for a thinner consistency).
• 1 pint canned, cubed venison – drained and ready to add hearty, meaty goodness.

Optional Add-Ins (for extra flavor):

• 1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for an aromatic kick.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – enhances the umami flavor.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary – for a fresh, earthy note.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

• No Venison? You can substitute with cubed beef, chicken, or even turkey. For a vegetarian version, try mushrooms or lentils.
• Butter Alternatives: Use olive oil or ghee for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Broth Options: Chicken or vegetable broth works if you don’t have beef broth on hand.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (adjust quantities accordingly).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Roux

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbly, whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour.
3. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to turn a light golden color. This should take about 2–3 minutes. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your gravy, giving it both thickness and a rich, toasty flavor.

Step 2: Add the Broth

4. Gradually whisk in 3–4 cups of beef broth. Start with 3 cups, and if you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more later.
5. Keep whisking to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember, the gravy will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Step 3: Add the Venison

7. Drain the pint of canned, cubed venison and add it to the simmering gravy.
8. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the venison to heat through and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Season and Serve

9. Taste the gravy and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you’re using optional ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or herbs, add them at this stage for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even warm biscuits for a comforting, hearty meal.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell When the Roux Is Ready: It should be smooth, bubbly, and a light golden color. Don’t let it get too dark, or it will taste bitter.
• Troubleshooting Lumpy Gravy: If lumps form, don’t panic! Simply whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
• Adjusting Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer or add a slurry of flour and water (1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
• Enhancing Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of soy sauce, or a sprinkle of herbs can elevate the taste.
• Leftovers: The gravy thickens as it cools. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Cubed Venison Gravy is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

• Classic Comfort: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes with a side of buttered green beans.
• Southern Style: Spoon generously over freshly baked biscuits for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
• Rice Bowl: Pour over steamed rice and top with sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Pasta Twist: Use it as a rustic sauce for egg noodles or buttered pasta.
• Rustic Shepherd’s Pie: Layer it with mashed potatoes and bake for a quick version of shepherd’s pie.

Perfect Pairings:

• Sides: Roasted carrots, sautéed spinach, or a crisp garden salad.
• Drinks: A glass of red wine, a cold beer, or even sweet iced tea complements the dish beautifully.
• Bread: Crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up every last drop of gravy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: Despite the simplicity, the gravy is packed with deep, savory flavors.
• Customizable: Make it your own with different meats, herbs, and seasonings.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and soul-satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Give It a Try!

Cooking with venison might seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before, but this Cubed Venison Gravy recipe proves that it’s anything but complicated. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly rewarding. The rich, savory flavors paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy biscuits create the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

So, grab that can of venison, whisk up some gravy, and dig into a dish that’s both rustic and refined. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—whether you stuck to the recipe or added your own twist, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Happy cooking!