squirrel pot pie recipe.

 

🥧 Squirrel Pot Pie – Hearty, Homestyle & Wild Game Comfort Food

Looking for an old-fashioned comfort food with a wild twist? This Squirrel Pot Pie brings together tender, slow-cooked squirrel meat in a creamy, savory filling topped with a flaky, golden crust. It’s a backwoods classic that’s making a comeback — perfect for hunters, homesteaders, or adventurous foodies!

🕒 Prep Time: 20 mins

🍳 Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins

🍽️ Servings: 4–6

📝 Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2–3 cleaned squirrels (about 1.5 lbs), jointed
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups chicken or wild game broth
• 1 cup whole milk or cream
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Crust:

• 1 sheet puff pastry or pie dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the squirrel: In a large pot, simmer squirrel pieces in lightly salted water or broth for about 1 hour until meat is tender and falling off the bone. Remove meat, let cool, then shred and discard bones.
2. Make the filling: In a large skillet, heat oil/butter. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
3. Add flour & broth: Stir in flour to coat veggies, then slowly add broth and milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
4. Add squirrel & seasoning: Mix in shredded squirrel, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Assemble the pie: Pour filling into a greased pie dish. Cover with crust, seal edges, and cut slits for steam.
6. Bake: Brush crust with egg wash. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
7. Cool & serve: Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot!

🧑‍🌾 Tips for the Best Wild Game Pot Pie:

• Soak squirrel in saltwater overnight to remove any gamey flavor.
• Add potatoes or mushrooms for extra texture.
• Make mini pot pies in ramekins for individual servings

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🥧 Serving Suggestions for Squirrel Pot Pie

Squirrel pot pie is a rich, hearty dish, so pairing it with lighter sides works best:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness
• Steamed green beans or peas for freshness
• Mashed potatoes if you want an extra-comfort meal
• Roasted root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes)
• Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the gravy
• Cranberry sauce or apple chutney for a subtle sweet contrast

Serve hot straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does squirrel meat taste like?

Squirrel meat tastes similar to rabbit or dark chicken meat—mild, slightly nutty, and tender when slow-cooked.

2. Is squirrel meat safe to eat?

Yes, when properly cleaned, cooked thoroughly, and sourced from safe areas, squirrel meat is safe and nutritious.

3. Can I substitute squirrel meat?

Absolutely. You can replace squirrel with:

• Chicken thighs
• Rabbit
• Turkey
• Duck

4. Why is my squirrel meat tough?

Squirrel meat becomes tough if cooked too quickly. Slow cooking or braising before adding it to the pie ensures tenderness.

5. Can I make squirrel pot pie ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the filling 1–2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble and bake when ready.

6. Can I freeze squirrel pot pie?

Yes. Freeze it unbaked or fully baked, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.

7. What herbs work best in squirrel pot pie?

Thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, parsley, and black pepper pair beautifully with game meat.

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🍽️ Similar Recipes You May Like

If you enjoyed squirrel pot pie, try these comforting dishes:

1. Chicken Pot Pie – Classic creamy comfort food
2. Rabbit Pot Pie – Traditional game-meat favorite
3. Turkey Pot Pie – Perfect for leftovers
4. Beef and Mushroom Pie – Rich and hearty
5. Venison Shepherd’s Pie – Rustic and filling
6. Duck Pie with Vegetables – Deep, savory flavors
7. Creamy Mushroom Pie (Vegetarian) – Meat-free comfort option

📌 Share Your Wild Catch!

Made this squirrel pot pie? Snap a pic and tag it with #MonzoorsKitchen — we’d love to see your rustic kitchen skills in action!