Easy Wild Game Meatloaf Recipe

I’ll be honest… meatloaf has never exactly screamed exciting dinner plans. It’s always been more of a “meh, it’ll do” kind of meal in my mind. However, somehow, here we are…me, fully converted, writing an entire blog about it. And not just any meatloaf… this one.

Why I Love Cooking with Wild Game

If you’ve been here a while, you know wild game is at the heart of how I cook and feed my family. It’s how I was raised, on moose, caribou, and deer my dad brought home, and it’s something I’ve carried straight into my own kitchen.

Because of that, there’s something really grounding about knowing exactly where your food comes from. Even more importantly, I love being able to share that with my kids around the dinner table.

In addition, wild game is one of the healthiest protein sources you can cook with. It’s naturally lean, high in protein, and incredibly flavorful.

If you want even more meatloaf deliciousness, check out my Wild Game Mini Meatloaf blog OR you can see aaalll my wild game meals HERE !

A Meatloaf Recipe That Actually Wins Everyone Over

This recipe is easy (like, weeknight easy), super flavorful, and one of those meals that everyone actually eats without complaining. And honestly, if you’re a mom, you know that’s a win.

I typically use ground elk, but don’t overthink it…venison, moose, or even lean ground beef or turkey will all work beautifully here.

So, if you’ve got ground meat in the freezer and need a no-fuss dinner that still feels like a win, this is it.

Ingredients for wild game meatloaf

You’ll need:

• 2 lbs ground elk meat (or any lean, ground meat of your choosing)
• 1 cup dry bread crumbs (I prefer seasoned, but unseasoned is fine too)
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 cup fresh parsley (or 2 tbsp of dried parsley works, too)
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp each dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper

Glaze:

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

How to Make Wild Game Meatloaf:

Preheat your Traeger (or oven) to 350°F.

Next, lightly spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, mix all the meatloaf ingredients except the glaze. Be careful not to overmix, as this helps keep the meatloaf tender.

Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, stir together the glaze ingredients.

Then, pour half the glaze into the bottom of your loaf pan. Add the meat mixture and gently press it in evenly.

After that, spread the remaining glaze over top.

Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meat is fully cooked.

Finally, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Trust me, it makes all the difference.

My Go-to Kitchen Tools

Over the years, I’ve found a handful of kitchen tools I truly can’t live without—especially when I’m cooking wild game.

So instead of gatekeeping, I rounded them all up for you in one spot.

Why This Recipe Works

Ultimately, this is one of those meals that proves simple doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s cozy, hearty, and just a little nostalgic, but way better than the meatloaf I used to turn my nose up at.

Alright, your turn! What are your go-to wild game recipes lately? What do you want to see more of?SaveSave

Need some more recipe ideas!?

Check out my recipes below to find your next yummy dessert, quick & easy dinner, and maybe even a fun cocktail for your next girls night! You can also click HERE for aaaalll the recipes in one place. And if you aren’t already, make sure you are subscribed to my email list — lots of recipes coming for y’all!!

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