Recipe: Venison Hamburger Soup

by
posted on August 25, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
venisonhamburgersoup_lead.jpg

Fall is just around the corner, and cooler temperatures mean a big pot of soup for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re at home or in hunting camp, soup is great comfort food for many outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, it’s always better with wild game, and ground deer, elk, moose, caribou, antelope and even wild hog works great with this recipe.

Hamburger soup is quick and easy to make, letting the heat source do all the work while you’re out playing. Barley is a hearty way to add body to the soup, but potatoes or pasta can also be used, just make sure to put them in near the end of the simmering process so they don’t overcook and break down.

It can be made on the stove or in a crockpot, and it freezes well if you want to make it in advance of a big event. Browning the meat is an important part of generating the final flavors in your soup, so don’t take any shortcuts.

Ingredients
• 2 lbs. ground venison
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 28 oz. can tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups beef stock
• 1 14 oz. can tomato sauce
• 4 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs parsley (or 2 tsp dried parsley flakes)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pepper to taste
• ½ cup pearl barley

Directions
1. Brown meat, onions, celery and garlic. Drain well.
2. Combine all ingredients in large pot. Simmer covered for one to two hours.

Latest

Ledemichigan Hunter Draws
Ledemichigan Hunter Draws

61-Year-Old Elk-Hunting Dream Fulfilled in Michigan

Michigan elk hunters faced challenging weather and storm-ravaged terrain to harvest 153 elk in 2025. That didn’t deter Bruce Nelson of Hastings, Mich. He applied for an elk license every year Michigan has held a drawing.

New for 2026: Blaser R8 Professional 2.0

The Blaser R8 Professional 2.0 promises to be the modern evolution of the iconic straight-pull rifle. The rifle features a new, ergonomically optimized vertical pistol grip for increased comfort and improved control when firing, and its ambidextrous palm swell fits both right- and left-handed shooters.

New for 2026: Leupold BX-6 Range HD Rangefinding Binocular

Leupold has launched its BX-6 Range HD rangefinding binocular. With fast, accurate ranging capabilities out to 6,000 yards, an advanced ballistics intelligence and precision GPS pinning, the BX-6 Range HD is looking to carve out a space for itself as a feature-rich rangefinding offering.

(Squirrel) Dog Days in the Delta

In the Deep South, Ringo and Max prove the sole purpose in the life of a feist is to hunt squirrels.

Primos Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

Primos, now a Revelyst brand, will continue its 50th anniversary celebration throughout 2026 with a brand refresh, new product launches, storytelling initiatives and moments that honor the hunters and traditions that made the brand what it is today.

Henry Introduces New Deadeye Revolvers

Henry Repeating Arms has announced the addition of two new revolver variants, the H16 Golden Boy Deadeye Revolver and the H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver, created in direct response to feedback from Henry owners and enthusiasts.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.