Description: These Deer Tenderloin Jalapeño Poppers are a delicious appetizer or snack, combining tender venison, spicy jalapeños, and crispy bacon for an explosion of flavor. Marinated venison cubes are wrapped with a jalapeño slice and bacon, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound venison tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon Greek seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon steak seasoning
- 16 ounces of Italian salad dressing
- ½ cup jalapeño pepper slices (4–5 medium jalapeños)
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Wooden toothpicks, soaked in water
Preparation:
Step 1: Season venison cubes with Greek and steak seasonings.
Step 2: Marinate the seasoned venison in Italian dressing for 2-24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
Step 3: Slice jalapeños into ¼-inch rounds and remove seeds if desired (for less heat). Cut bacon slices in half.
Step 4: Preheat grill to medium heat (350-375°F). Remove venison from marinade and pat dry to ensure proper grilling.
Step 5: Place a jalapeño slice on each venison cube, wrap with half a bacon slice, and secure with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly to prevent it from falling off during grilling.
Step 6: Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the venison reaches an internal temperature of 135-145°F for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 7: Rest for 3-5 minutes before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or a creamy jalapeño dip.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These jalapeño poppers are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory venison, spicy jalapeño, and smoky bacon creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
- Tender Venison: Marinating the venison tenderloin ensures it’s incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple grilling, these poppers are easy to whip up for any occasion.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds for a milder version.
- Great for Sharing: Perfect as an appetizer for parties, game days, or any gathering.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a homemade creamy jalapeño dip.
- Pair with a crisp salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Offer alongside other grilled appetizers for a diverse spread.
Tips:
- Use tenderloin or backstrap for the most tender results.
- Soak toothpicks for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning on the grill.
- Keep a spray bottle of water handy to control grill flare-ups from the bacon grease.
- For milder heat, blanch jalapeños briefly in boiling water or substitute with banana peppers.
- These poppers can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before grilling.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2-24 hours
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 per popper
- Protein: 15-20g
- Sodium: 200-300mg
Conclusion:
Deer Tenderloin Jalapeño Poppers are a guaranteed hit, offering a unique and delicious twist on a classic appetizer. The combination of tender, marinated venison, spicy jalapeño, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a flavorful snack, this recipe is sure to impress!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different cut of venison?
A: While tenderloin or backstrap is recommended for the most tender results, you can use other cuts of venison. However, consider marinating them for a longer period to ensure tenderness.
Q2: How do I control the heat level?
A: Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños for less heat. You can also blanch the jalapeños briefly in boiling water before using them. Alternatively, substitute with milder peppers like banana peppers.
Q3: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can bake these in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the venison is cooked through.
Q4: What dipping sauces go well with these poppers?
A: Ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, and a creamy jalapeño dip are all excellent choices.
Q5: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the poppers ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before grilling. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before grilling.
