Lasagna is a classic comfort food known for its hearty layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and fragrant herbs that come together for a deeply satisfying meal. To add a unique twist, why not try it with venison? This lean, nutrient-packed meat brings an earthy depth of flavour that pairs beautifully with Italian seasonings, taking this timeless dish to the next level. In this Venison Lasagna recipe, ground venison is the star ingredient, bringing a unique twist to a family favourite while cutting down on fat content without sacrificing taste.
In addition to its incredible flavour, venison is an excellent choice for those looking to reduce calories compared to traditional beef lasagna. We’ll also answer a common question: How many calories are in homemade venison lasagna? So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious venison lasagna recipe!
Why Venison?
Venison, or deer meat, is prized for its leanness and distinct flavour. Compared to beef, it’s lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol, making it a healthier choice for lasagna enthusiasts. Its earthy, mildly gamey taste adds a delightful complexity to the classic lasagna sauce, enhancing the dish without overpowering the Italian herbs and cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Venison Lasagna Unique?
Venison lasagna offers a rich, savoury, more complex flavour than traditional beef. Venison is leaner, making it a healthier choice for those looking to reduce fat and calories. The taste of venison also complements Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary, creating a gourmet lasagna while still being a cosy, comforting meal.
How Many Calories Are in Homemade Venison Lasagna?
The calorie content of homemade venison lasagna depends on the specific ingredients used and portion size. On average, one serving of venison lasagna (about 1/8 of a 9×13-inch pan) has approximately 400-450 calories. This is generally lower than traditional beef lasagna, which can have 500-600 calories per serving due to the higher fat content in ground beef.
Note: For a more precise calorie count, consider using an online nutrition calculator and inputting the exact ingredients you’re using.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Yes! While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional in lasagna, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for a slightly lighter texture, while provolone or gouda can add a unique twist if you want more flavour variety.
Is Venison a Healthier Meat Option?
Absolutely! Venison is known for its leanness and high protein content. It also includes essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Compared to beef, venison has fewer calories and less fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make healthier meals.
Tips for the Perfect Venison Lasagna
- Season the Meat Well: Venison has a unique flavour, and seasoning it with robust herbs and spices enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Give it a Break: After baking, permit the lasagna to sit for 10 minutes. This makes slicing easier and sets the layers.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a hint of spice, add red pepper flakes or diced hot peppers to the meat sauce for a little extra kick.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
To complete the meal, serve this venison lasagna with a simple Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavours in venison lasagna, adding a touch of elegance to this hearty dish.
Final Thoughts
Venison lasagna is a delicious twist on a classic Italian favourite, blending rich, savoury flavours with lean and healthy ground venison. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a cosy night in. With its layers of pasta, melted cheese, and aromatic meat sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will love and appreciate for its taste and nutritional benefits.
Venison Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound ground venison
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 28 oz
- 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp rosemary
- Salt and black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground venison to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Allow the sauce to simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well-blended. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the venison meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer with 3-4 cooked lasagna noodles, then add a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture and another layer of the meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese, meat sauce) until you’ve used all the ingredients, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Slice into portions and serve your venison lasagna hot. Enjoy with a side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine for a truly comforting meal!