Looking for the ultimate chili recipe with venison? Here is is! This Meaty Slow Cooker Venison Chili is easy to prepare, packed with nutritious ingredients, and loaded with flavor. Using venison as the main protein source in chili adds a unique and gamey flavor that perfectly complements the spices and vegetables. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between heat and flavor, creating a dish that will please everyone at the dinner table.

Why I love this chili recipe with deer meat

You may call it deer meat or venison- whatever floats your boat. But we are often gifted some from family members who hunt in the Fall. I like to make Venison Pasties and chili with the meat. It is a little healthier, adds flavor, and is a great way to utilize the game meat. This recipe is:

Simple to make
Just a few ingredients
Comes together easily with the help of the Slow cooker or a Dutch Oven
Non-gamey tasting
A great way for your family to get their veggies in

Benefits of using venison in chili

What makes this chili even more enticing is its health benefits. Venison is a lean and protein-rich meat that is low in fat and calories. By using venison instead of all beef, you’ll be reducing your intake of saturated fats while still enjoying a hearty and filling meal. So, spice up your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds with this delicious and healthy chili recipe featuring venison.

Ingredients needed for this chili with venison recipe

Venison Roast– I had a roast in the freezer but have made this recipe with ground venison, too.
Ground Beef– We like our chili meaty so I used 1 lb. of ground beef (ground turkey would work, too).
Beer– I used beer to marinate the roast and also inside the chili. I just used what we have in the fridge at the time. A light lager works but so does something like an Oktoberfest.
Green Pepper– chopped bell peppers are a must for me in chili. I used green but red would work, too.
Onion– Dice them smaller so they cook more evenly.
Jalapeño– Even if your family doesn’t do spicy- just 1 jalapeño adds the perfect amount of spice and flavor in this chili. (can remove the seeds if you want)
Chili Powder– I add a little extra chili powder to the seasoning or if you don’t have it a few dashes of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper will do as well.
Chili Seasoning Packet– I find 1 packet works for enough flavor. Choose mild or hot to your family’s preference.
Tomato Sauce– This makes up the base of the soup.
Tomato Paste– help add tomato taste, texture, and thickness.
A variety of canned tomatoes– You can get creative here or even toss in some fresh tomatoes if you have them. I like chili ready and some stewed.

Watch the video below!

How to Make this Meaty Slow Cooker Venison Chili Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the venison in beer. The day before I cut up the roast into cubes and marinated in some beer overnight. This to me added some flavor and takes out some of the “gamey” taste of the venison. You don’t have too but I think it helps with the tenderness too. You also can swap for some milk, buttermilk, vinegar, or olive oil to help marinate the meat.

Step 2: Brown the meat. Drain the beer from the venison and add to a pan along with the ground beef. Cook until browned and drain any grease.

Step 3: Add ingredients to Slow Cooker. Add in the browned venison, beef, and the rest of the ingredients. Give everything a stir. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.

Step 4: Serve. Serve warm with topping of choice. I love sour cream, shredded cheese, and oyster crackers.

Want more flavor?

You can easily add in some spicy peppers to your liking. Sometimes I toss in red Thai peppers from the garden. If you don’t want spicy you could use poblano peppers, too. Have fresh tomatoes? Toss those in the pot, too. Like beans in your chili? Go for it!

Like this slow cooker recipe? Make sure to check out my:

Make Sure to PIN IT!