There is something special about serving wild game during the holidays. It brings the hunt full circle and lets you share the harvest with family and friends. Whether you tagged an elk, antelope, black bear, mule deer, or another Montana species this season, these dishes are a great way to turn your hard-earned meat into a memorable holiday feast. Here are a few simple and delicious recipe ideas that showcase the flavors of the animals we hunt here in Montana.
Herb Roasted Mule Deer Backstrap
Mule deer offers a mild, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with simple herbs. Start by seasoning the backstrap with salt, pepper, garlic, and a little rosemary. Sear it in a hot pan to create a crust, then finish it in the oven until it reaches your desired doneness.
Because mule deer is naturally lean, be careful not to overcook it. Slice it thin and serve it with roasted potatoes or a warm winter salad for a holiday dish that feels rustic and elegant at the same time.
Antelope or Elk Roast with Bacon and Cracked Pepper
If you brought home an antelope or elk from your Montana hunt, a slow-roasted peppered roast is always a holiday favorite. Rub the meat with garlic, black pepper, a little oil, and your favorite herbs. Wrap the roast in bacon so the fat melts into the meat as it cooks, helping keep everything tender.
This roast pairs well with hearty sides such as mashed potatoes, root vegetables, or mushroom gravy. Elk and antelope both stand out here because their lean, mild meat absorbs seasoning well and stays flavorful without needing complicated sauces.
Elk Stew for a Cozy Winter Meal
Elk stew is a comforting option when the weather turns cold, and you want something hearty on the holiday table. Combine chunks of elk with onions, celery, carrots, potatoes, garlic, and a splash of broth. Let it simmer until the meat becomes soft and the vegetables are full of flavor.
This stew tastes great with crusty bread or over buttered noodles. It fills the house with warm aromas and is a great way to bring everyone to the table. Antelope can be used in place of elk if that is what you have in the freezer.
Slow Cooked Black Bear Roast
For hunters who harvested a black bear, a slow-cooked roast is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the meat. Bear meat has a deep, rich flavor and becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow. Season your roast with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic, then add onions and broth before placing it in a crock pot or Dutch oven.
After several hours of cooking, the meat will be fork-tender and perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. It is a hearty and rustic holiday dish that showcases a unique and memorable game meat.
Tips for Cooking Wild Game
- Lean meats like elk, antelope, and mule deer cook best with low and slow methods
- Adding moisture through broth, butter, or bacon helps prevent dryness
- Mild herbs and simple seasonings bring out natural game flavor
- Always cook bear meat fully for safety
Bring the Harvest to the Table and Plan for Next Season
Holiday cooking is even more meaningful when the main ingredient comes from a successful hunt. Whether you choose elk, antelope, mule deer, or black bear, each recipe connects you to the outdoors and to the work that went into filling the freezer.
If you want to fill your freezer again next year, now is a great time to start planning. Elk Ridge Outfitters offers guided hunts for elk, mule deer, antelope, black bear, mountain lion, and mountain goat, complete with experienced guides, comfortable lodging, and access to quality hunting country.
Since our seasons book quickly, we encourage hunters to review our 2026 hunting availability and licensing details online. It is the best way to secure your preferred hunt dates in advance.
When you are ready to plan your next Montana adventure, explore our guided hunt packages and book your hunt online. Your next holiday recipe might begin with a tag filled here at Elk Ridge Outfitters!
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