Barbecue Sauce for Venison by Mom

Why You'll Want This Again

This sauce brings out the rich, gamey flavor of venison with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. It’s a family favorite that adds warmth and comfort to every bite. The recipe is simple and uses common ingredients, making it easy to prepare anytime.

Step 1

Warm your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and then add the chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Let everything warm through together so the flavors meld.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat another skillet over medium-high heat. Season your venison steaks with salt and pepper, then cook them until nicely browned on both sides—around 3 to 4 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the steaks to a baking dish (about 9x13 inches) and pour the sauce from the skillet over them.

Step 3

Pop the dish in the oven and bake until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink inside, which should take about an hour. When they’re done, move the steaks to a serving platter, letting any extra sauce drip off.

Step 4

To finish the sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir it into the sauce left in the baking dish. Heat it gently until it thickens up, then drizzle this glossy sauce over the steaks before serving.

Perfect Side Pairings

This sauce is great brushed over grilled venison steaks or served as a dipping sauce on the side. It also pairs nicely with roasted vegetables or baked potatoes. Try it with other game meats like elk or wild turkey for a delicious twist.

Storage & Reheating

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before using, give it a good stir and warm it slightly to bring out the full flavor. You can also freeze it in small portions for longer storage.