Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions Delight Recipe

Some of my most cherished moments in the kitchen revolve around the creation of mouthwatering dishes like Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions. Picture this: the aroma of seasoned venison backstrap mingling with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the creamy richness of cream cheese. It’s a recipe that embodies everything I love about cooking—simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary.

Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions are a testament to the magic that happens when flavors and textures unite. The tender slices of venison, marinated in zesty Italian dressing, take on a delightful depth, while the jalapeños bring a vibrant heat that’s perfectly balanced by the smooth cream cheese. And let’s not forget the crispy beef bacon wrap that holds it all together, adding a savory crunch that’s simply irresistible.

This dish has become a favorite in my household, not only because it’s delicious, but also because it’s a joy to make. The process of assembling each medallion, wrapping it in bacon, and watching it transform on the grill or in the oven is truly satisfying. Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience—a shared moment of culinary creativity.

As you embark on this flavorful journey with Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions, you’ll find that the steps are straightforward, yet the results are anything but ordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress, leaving everyone craving more.

Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions

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• Author: Chloe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Discover how to make succulent Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions. This recipe offers step-by-step guidance for a gourmet, flavor-packed dish.

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Ingredients

• 1/2 to 1 pound (680 g) deer backstrap or tenderloin
• 1 (16 ounce (454 g)) bottle Italian dressing
• 10 fresh jalapeno peppers (3 to 4 inches long)
• 8 ounce (227 g) block of cream cheese (softened)
• 10 slices beef bacon
• Seasoned salt
• Ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Slice the venison backstrap into 20 thin pieces, each measuring approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness, 1 inch in width, and 3 inches in length. Use a meat hammer if necessary.
2. Optional: Submerge the slices in Italian dressing in a bowl and let them soak for 2 to 16 hours.
3. For smoking, set your pellet grill or smoker to 250°F. For baking, warm up the oven to 375°F.
4. Split each piece of bacon into two parts.
5. Remove the tops of the jalapeños and cut them in half lengthwise. Take out the seeds and rinse the peppers.
6. Fill each jalapeño half with the softened cream cheese.
7. Lay a slice of venison backstrap atop each stuffed jalapeño.
8. Wrap each filled pepper in half a bacon slice. (If a full wrap isn’t achieved, use a whole slice.) Use a toothpick to hold it together if needed.
9. Sprinkle seasoned salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Place the wrapped jalapeños directly on the grill grates with a drip pan below.
11. Close the lid and smoke them for 1½ to 2 hours at 250°F, until the bacon is crispy and the venison is done.
12. Arrange the jalapeño poppers on a broiler pan or a baking sheet with a wire rack to prevent them from sitting in bacon grease.
13. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 20 to 30 minutes, until the venison is fully cooked.
14. Put them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes per side to crisp up the bacon. (Be cautious to avoid burning.)
15. Serve and savor!

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Notes

• Marinate venison in Italian dressing for 16 hours for tenderness and rich flavornSoften cream cheese before stuffing jalapeños for smooth, even fillingnUse gloves when deseeding jalapeños to prevent skin or eye irritation

Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions: Fundamentals

Fundamentals

The key to making Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions lies in understanding the fundamentals of each component. The venison backstrap or tenderloin is the star of the show, offering a lean, flavorful base that’s enhanced by the marinade. Submerging the venison slices in Italian dressing not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a herbaceous, zesty flavor that complements the heat of jalapeños.

Jalapeños play a crucial role in this recipe, adding a mild to moderate heat that balances the richness of the cream cheese. It’s important to remove the seeds to control the spice level, ensuring that each bite is pleasantly piquant rather than overly fiery. The cream cheese, softened to perfection, acts as a creamy counterpoint to the spice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by slicing the venison into 20 thin pieces, each about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, 1 inch wide, and 3 inches long. If needed, use a meat hammer to achieve the desired thickness. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and optimal flavor absorption. Optionally, marinate the venison slices in Italian dressing for 2 to 16 hours to maximize flavor.

Prepare the jalapeños by removing the tops and slicing them in half lengthwise. Deseed and rinse them to mellow the heat, then fill each half with softened cream cheese. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each bite is infused with creamy goodness.

Creating Perfect Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Medallions

Technique

Assembling the Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Place a slice of venison atop each cream cheese-stuffed jalapeño half. The key here is to ensure the venison covers the cheese-filled pepper, creating a perfect medallion shape. Wrap each medallion in half a slice of beef bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. This not only holds everything together but also adds a savory crunch.

For cooking, you can choose between smoking or baking. If smoking, set your pellet grill or smoker to 250°F. Place the medallions directly on the grill grates, ensuring a drip pan is below to catch any juices. The slow smoking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, smoky bites. Alternatively, bake the medallions in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 to 30 minutes, until the venison is fully cooked.

Tips/Tricks

To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, finish the medallions under the broiler for 2-3 minutes per side. This step enhances the texture, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy bacon and tender venison. Be cautious during this process to prevent burning. If you prefer a milder heat, consider soaking the jalapeño halves in cold water for a few minutes before stuffing them with cream cheese.

For those who love experimenting with flavors, consider adding a sprinkle of seasoned salt and ground black pepper before cooking. This simple addition can elevate the taste, highlighting the natural flavors of the venison and jalapeños. If you’re interested in exploring more creative recipes, check out Jalapeno Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Backstrap Recipe for inspiration.

Perfecting Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Medallions

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions involves attention to detail at every step. Start by ensuring that the venison slices are uniform in size, as this guarantees even cooking. Marinating the venison in Italian dressing not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in succulent medallions.

The bacon wrap is crucial for adding texture and flavor. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped around the medallion, using a whole slice of bacon if necessary. This prevents the medallion from unraveling during cooking and ensures that each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you encounter any challenges, such as uneven cooking or overly spicy jalapeños, don’t worry. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the venison slices to ensure they are cooked through without drying out. To tame the heat, consider using milder jalapeño varieties or removing additional seeds.

Feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. Substitute half of the cream cheese with a flavored cheese spread for an added twist. For more recipe inspiration, visit Sous Vide Prime Rib with Horseradish Cream and explore different flavor profiles that you might enjoy.

Serving and Storing Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Medallions

Serving/Presentation

Presenting Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions is as delightful as preparing them. Arrange the medallions on a platter, garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color. This dish is ideal for sharing at gatherings or as an impressive appetizer for a special dinner. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to captivate your guests.

For a complete presentation, consider serving the medallions alongside a fresh garden salad or a medley of roasted vegetables. This adds a refreshing contrast and complements the rich flavors of the dish. If you enjoy exploring new culinary creations, you might also appreciate Jalapeno Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Backstrap Recipe for more ideas.

Pairings/Storage

While traditional pairings are enjoyable, consider offering a selection of refreshing beverages to complement the Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions. A crisp, cold soda or sparkling water with a hint of citrus can enhance the overall dining experience. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring they remain fresh for future enjoyment.

If you’re planning ahead, prepare the medallions up to the wrapping stage and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld even further, resulting in an even more delectable dish. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the smoking or baking instructions for a hassle-free meal.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions offer a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that come together in perfect harmony. This recipe brings out the best in each ingredient, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. By mastering the fundamentals and embracing the joy of cooking, you can create a memorable culinary experience.

The versatility of this dish allows for endless creativity, from experimenting with different cheese flavors to adjusting the spice level to your liking. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or enjoying them as a comforting meal at home, Jalapeño Cream Cheese-stuffed Venison Medallions are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire.

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