When it comes to eating game meat, one of the all-time favorites is squirrel. These little “tree-ninjas” can be cooked up in so many different ways and varieties there is sure to be one that you will fall in love with.
Squirrel meat, is lean and resembles a mix between chicken and pork. It can be used in nearly any recipe and has a nutty and almost sweet taste. It can range from dark to white and does not have a strong “gamey’ flavor. These factors are why there are so many squirrel recipes.
Here we will look at 25 recipes for cooking up some “squawks”, and I am sure you will find a new favorite. If you have a recipe that is not listed feel free to post it in the comments.
1. Buttermilk Fried Squirrel with Southern Gravy
Fried squirrel with gravy is one of the most common and traditional methods of cooking squirrel meat. This recipe from the people at Realtree makes for a great meal. Get the recipe here.
2. Squirrel Stew with Paprika and Greens
Hearty greens and bold flavor make this stew stand out. Thick and filling with the smokey taste of paprika, this recipe is perfect for a cold, rainy day. Get the recipe.
3. Hillbilly Squirrel & Gravy over Rice
Keeping it simple is the theme of this recipe. The delicious gravy goes well with the rice and mixed with the tender squirrel meat makes a great combination. Get the recipe.
4. Smothered Fried Squirrel in Pepper Gravy Recipe
Here we have another fried squirrel with a gravy recipe, this one utilizing a pepper gravy that is fantastic. Paired with some fresh buttery biscuits this recipe perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Get recipe.
5. Squirrel Recipe: Brunswick Stew
This stew recipe is shocked full of vegetables such as onion, celery, corn, tomatoes, turnips, and peppers. With a great flavor and plenty of hearty ingredients, this is one soup that will fill your belly. Get recipe.
6. Bacon-Wrapped Squirrel
Few things in life cannot be made better by wrapping it in bacon. Bacon-wrapped squirrel is just awesome. This recipe also utilizes the grill which adds even more flavor. This is definitely one you want to try. Get recipe.
7. Squirrel and Noodles
If you are looking for a break from the “regular” squirrel recipes this Squirrel and Noodles dish is worth a try. The pasta lends itself well with the squirrel meat, making this dish a pleaser. Get recipe.
8. Slow Cooker Squirrel and Veggies
This slow cooker recipe will create fall off the bone tender squirrel with delicious vegetables. The recipe is quick and easy, but also tasty, making this an ideal dish for beginners learning to cook with squirrel meat. Get recipe.
9. Louisianna Squirrel Stew
This squirrel stew recipe comes from southern Louisiana and features some different flavors than the stews from other regions.
Rich and hearty, this stew is definitely a crowd-pleaser. It also lets you change up your flavor profile if you have been cooking the same flavors over and over. Get this recipe.
10. Squirrel Jambalaya
Here is another cajun squirrel favorite, Squirrel Jambalaya. This classic Louisanna dish works very well with squirrel meat and is filling with plenty of hearty rice. Adjust the heat to your personal liking and don’t forget to top it all with some extra hot sauce. Get the recipe.
11. Squirrel Pot Pie
Pot pie is a wonderful way to cook wild game, and squirrel is no different. This recipe creates a soft, flaky crust and a rich and flavorful filling. The stoutness of the Guinness beer contrasting with the herbs and the tender squirrel is very satisfying. Get this recipe.
12. Squirrel Confit
If you are looking for a fancier recipe than the standard fried squirrel then this Squirrel Confit is for you.
Using the sous vide cooking method and slow cooking the squirrel in duck fat means you are guaranteed a flavorful, tender, and juicy meat. Here they use it to make a sandwich, however, you could use the meat any way you wanted. Get the recipe.
13. Barbecued Smoked Squirrel Sandwiches
Here is another recipe that turns the tables on traditional. Barbecued and smoked squirrel shredded and put into sandwiches with smoked onions simmered in beer.
The squirrel is slow-cooked so it is tender and juicy with a ton of added flavor from the hickory smoke. This is a great recipe to share with a crowd. Get recipe.
14. Belgian Squirrel
Combining the rich taste of prunes and the sweet, nutty flavor of squirrel meat makes this dish work wonderfully. A bit of vinegar helps cut any gamey taste, and most folks would never know they were eating squirrel. Get recipe.
15. Old Fashioned Squirrel and Dumplings
Another traditional preparation is Squirrel and Dumplings. The squirrel, simmered in stock, is then pulled and returned to the stock.
Fresh dumplings are then added and cooked to perfection. Guaranteed to make happy people and empty bowls. Get recipe.
16. Wild Squirrel Casserole
This recipe comes from the UK and pair squirrel meat with plenty of hearty vegetables, fresh herbs, and stock. Delicious and perfect for a cold winter day meal. Get this recipe right here.
17. Braised Squirrel with Horseradish Mash
A more upscale recipe this Braised Squirrel with Horseradish Mash is a meal cooked to impress. The squirrel is braised in a rich red wine and seasoned with rosemary and thyme. Get recipes.
18. Sweet Baked Squirrel
Combining the nutty flavor of squirrel meat and the sweetness of sorghum molasses, this baked squirrel is bursting with flavor. Get recipe.
19. Braised Squirrel Aurora
With a braising liquid made with green olives and almonds, this recipe brings some new and bright flavors to your squirrel meat. Combined with the fingerling potatoes this recipe will keep your belly full. Get recipe.
20. Squirrel Cacciatore
This recipe combines browned squirrel meat, tomato sauce, and white to make a flavorful and fulfilling meal. Mushrooms, green peppers, onions, and olives round out this hearty recipe. Get this recipe here.
21. Saucy Crockpot Squirrel
Here is another slow cooker recipe that packs a ton of flavor. Using Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, brown sugar, and hot sauce- this dish is guaranteed to make your mouth water just mixing it together. The slow cooker makes for juicy and tender squirrel and the sauce is to die for. Get it here.
22. Squirrel Casserole
Another take on Squirrel Casserole this recipe using broccoli, cheese, onion, and celery. It is cheesy, flavorful, and delicious. This dish is great as an entree or can be used as a side dish at a larger dinner. Either way, it is fantastic. Get recipe.
23. Rosemary Parmesan Squirrel
If you are looking for a burst of flavor then this is the squirrel recipe for you. White wine, rosemary, sundried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese combine to make a decadent yet clean tasting dish that is sure to get repeated. Get the recipe here.
24. Squirrel And Mushrooms in Cream Sauce
Possibly one of the best squirrel recipes I have ever tried, this squirrel and mushrooms in cream sauce is thick, hearty, and satisfying. The sauce is rich and compliments the squirrel meat perfectly. Get recipe.
25. Tasty Baked Squirrel
This baked squirrel is flavored with onion, garlic, bacon, and maple syrup. When mixed together this forms an amazing flavor profile that will satisfy anyone. The mushrooms go well with the squirrel meat, which comes out fork-tender and flavorful. Get the recipe.
Born and raised in Kentucky, Steve grew up deep in the mountains on a family farm. After college, Steve spent over 15 years working in public service and has experience in Fire, EMS, and Law Enforcement. He has also worked with training and deploying search & rescue and service dogs for utilization in a variety of services.
Steve is also a Scout Leader with the Boy Scouts of America, and works to teach preparedness to the next generation. Steve has worked with and taught firearms and self-defense in multiple venues, from tactical applications to long range shooting, and also has extensive training in first aid and wilderness first aid.
An active prepper, Steve has devoted hundreds of hours to mastering and teaching skills and techniques for use in survival, homesteading, and general preparedness.
Deer season is over and it’s .22 time! Thank you so much Steve!
I feel the same way. Glad you enjoyed it!