Venison Cheeseburger Sliders make a great meal or tailgating snack

The air is changing, folks. That crispness that settles in, the leaves turning gold – it’s a feeling that stirs something deep inside a North Dakota heart. It’s not just about football or Thanksgiving; it’s the anticipation of deer hunting season. For many of us, it’s a tradition as important as family itself, a chance to connect with the land and create memories that will last a lifetime. And this year, that tradition comes with a delicious twist: Venison Cheeseburger Sliders, brought to us by local wild game chef Jeff Benda. Wild Game & Fish

The Tradition of Venison Cheeseburger Sliders

Jeff Benda, a Fargo-based wild game chef and author of the “Wild Game & Fish Cookbook,” shares his recipe for Venison Cheeseburger Sliders as part of a limited series highlighting wild game recipes. Benda, who has 25 years of experience in the restaurant and catering industry, emphasizes the importance of quick, delicious meals, especially for busy families. Deer hunting isn’t just about providing food; it’s about camaraderie and tradition – a chance to escape the daily grind and enjoy the outdoors with loved ones. Benda’s cookbook has gained popularity for its unique recipes that celebrate North Dakota’s hunting and fishing heritage, and the Venison Cheeseburger Sliders are a perfect example of his accessible approach to wild game cooking. The recipe serves 24 sliders and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Follow Jeff Benda on Instagram

The recipe itself is straightforward: sauté diced onion with ground venison, seasoned with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. A touch of mayonnaise adds richness, while Hawaiian rolls and cheddar cheese provide a sweet and savory foundation. The sliders are baked until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown, resulting in a dish that’s both easy to make and undeniably delicious. Benda suggests using Hawaiian rolls, a choice that adds a sweet and soft texture to the sliders.

More Than Just a Recipe

Beyond the recipe, Benda’s perspective highlights a deeper connection to the land and the importance of family. He speaks of the joy of escaping the demands of farm life – helping his in-laws with the soybean and corn harvest – and finding solace in the quiet moments of the hunt. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best traditions are those that bring us closer to nature and closer to each other. The enthusiasm surrounding Benda’s recipe, and his broader approach to wild game cooking, speaks to a deep-seated appreciation for tradition and self-sufficiency within our community. Hunting isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life for many families in North Dakota, providing sustenance and fostering a connection to the land that stretches back generations. The ability to provide for one’s family through hunting embodies the American dream—a spirit of independence and resourcefulness that resonates deeply with our values. Learn more about North Dakota State University athletics

Community Reaction: A Taste of Tradition

The response to Benda’s recipe underscores a broader societal trend: a renewed appreciation for traditional skills and values. In an age of mass production and convenience, there's a growing desire to reconnect with our roots, to learn how to provide for ourselves, and to celebrate the simple pleasures of life. Hunting, cooking wild game, and sharing a meal with family are all part of that movement—a way of reclaiming our heritage and strengthening our communities.

The Importance of Tradition

The enthusiasm surrounding Benda’s recipe underscores a broader societal trend: a renewed appreciation for traditional skills and values. In an age of mass production and convenience, there's a growing desire to reconnect with our roots, to learn how to provide for ourselves, and to celebrate the simple pleasures of life. Hunting, cooking wild game, and sharing a meal with family are all part of that movement—a way of reclaiming our heritage and strengthening our communities. As families navigate the complexities of modern life, these traditions offer a sense of stability, purpose, and belonging.

What’s Next: Embracing the Harvest Season

As the leaves continue to change and the weather cools, the deer hunting season promises to bring more than just game meat to our tables. It offers a chance to reconnect with nature, strengthen family bonds, and celebrate the traditions that define our community. Benda’s recipe is a perfect starting point for those looking to explore the world of wild game cooking—a delicious and approachable way to embrace the harvest season. The success of his cookbook pre-orders suggests a strong appetite for recipes that celebrate North Dakota’s unique hunting and fishing heritage. Learn more about North Dakota's Department of Natural Resources

Beyond the immediate enjoyment of these sliders, it’s worth considering the broader implications of sustainable food practices and the importance of supporting local hunters and farmers. Choosing to incorporate wild game into our diets can reduce our reliance on factory-farmed meat, which often has a significant environmental impact. And by supporting local hunters, we’re helping to preserve a valuable tradition and ensure the long-term health of our ecosystems.

Resources for Hunters and Home Cooks

For those interested in learning more about hunting and wild game cooking, several resources are available. The North Dakota Department of Natural Resources offers a wealth of information on hunting regulations, safety tips, and hunter education courses. North Dakota Department of Natural Resources Local sporting goods stores and hunting supply retailers can provide guidance on equipment and techniques. And, of course, Jeff Benda’s website and cookbook offer a treasure trove of recipes and inspiration. Wild Game & Fish

For those looking to support local farmers and ranchers, the North Dakota Farmers Union is a valuable resource. North Dakota Farmers Union By choosing to buy locally sourced food, we can strengthen our communities, support sustainable agriculture, and ensure that everyone has access to healthy, affordable meals.

Finally, remember that the most important ingredient in any meal is love. Take the time to connect with your family, to share stories, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And don’t be afraid to try something new—you might just discover a new favorite tradition.

Venison Cheeseburger Sliders

Serves: 24 sliders

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients: 3 tablespoons melted butter, 2 teaspoons olive oil, 2 pounds ground venison, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 24 Hawaiian rolls, 8 slices cheddar cheese, 3/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using 1 tablespoon of the melted butter, grease the bottom of a rimmed baking sheet. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add ground venison, diced onion, salt, pepper, onion powder and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the venison has lost its raw, red color. Transfer the meat mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the mayonnaise. Using a long serrated knife, slice off the top half of the Hawaiian rolls. Place the bottom half of the rolls on the buttered baking sheet and line the bread with sliced cheese. Spread cooked ground venison mixture evenly over the sliced cheese, using the back of a spatula to square off the edges. Cover the ground venison with the shredded cheese. Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls, cut-side down, over the meat and cheese mixture. Brush tops with the remaining 2 tablespoons of the melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. Serve immediately.

As we head into this season of harvest and tradition, let’s remember the importance of family, community, and the simple pleasures of life. And let’s all take a moment to savor the taste of a delicious Venison Cheeseburger Slider – a true taste of North Dakota. Jamestown Chamber of Commerce