Venison Snack Stick Recipe

The cold weather outside always reminds me of one thing—homemade venison snack sticks. These protein-packed snacks are perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, or just as a quick bite between meals. 

Making them at home ensures you get the best flavors without preservatives, plus you can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Let’s dive into the process of crafting the perfect venison snack sticks.

Why Venison?

Venison is a lean and nutritious meat, offering high protein with minimal fat. Compared to beef or pork, it has a richer, slightly gamey flavor that pairs well with bold spices. 

Since venison lacks fat, blending it with a bit of pork or beef fat helps keep the snack sticks juicy and flavorful.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 2-3 hours

Total Time: 3.5 hours

Equipment Needed

You just need these equipments to make this recipe

• Meat grinder
• Sausage stuffer
• Smoker or oven
• Meat Grinder
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife

Ingredients (Makes about 5 lbs of snack sticks)

These ingredients i recommend to use but further, you can adjust the quantity accordingly

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps for preparation of venison snack stick recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

First place the venison and pork fat into small pieces for easier grinding. Spread them on a tray and place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes until firm but not frozen. This helps achieve a better grind and texture.

Step 2: Grind and Season the Meat

Grind the chilled meat mixture through a medium (¼-inch) grinder plate. In a separate bowl, mix all the dry seasonings, including curing salt. 

Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the ground meat while slowly adding ice water. Mix thoroughly until the texture becomes sticky, ensuring proper seasoning distribution.

Step 3: Fill the Casings

Soak the collagen casings in warm water for a few minutes to soften them. Load the seasoned meat into a sausage stuffer and carefully fill the casings, maintaining consistent pressure to prevent air pockets. Twist or tie off the casings at desired lengths.

Step 4: Smoking or Baking

Smoking Method: Preheat the smoker to 150°F and arrange the snack sticks inside with proper spacing. Gradually increase the temperature to 175°F and smoke until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which takes about 2-3 hours.

Oven Method: If using an oven, preheat to 170°F. Lay the snack sticks on a wire rack to allow even air circulation. Bake for around 3 hours, checking the internal temperature periodically to ensure it reaches 160°F.

Step 5: Cooling and Storage

Once fully cooked, remove the snack sticks and let them cool at room temperature until firm. For better texture and flavor, refrigerate overnight before slicing. 

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for long-term storage.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Sweet & Smoky: Mix in brown sugar and more liquid smoke.
• Teriyaki Style: Substitute some salt with soy sauce and add ginger powder.

Making them at home ensures you get the best flavors without preservatives, plus you can adjust the seasoning to your taste—just like with homemade chicken sausage recipes for a customized flavor experience.

Expert Tips for the Best Venison Snack Sticks

Use fresh venison for the best taste and texture. Keep the meat cold while mixing to prevent fat from smearing. If baking, place a water pan in the oven to keep the sticks moist. Let them rest in the fridge before slicing for a firmer bite.

Pairing Suggestions

These venison snack sticks pair well with aged cheddar, whole grain mustard, and crispy crackers. Enjoy them with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea for a complete snack experience.

FAQs