With the opening day of firearm season just 2 days away, many hunters are more concerned right now about the quality (and quantity) of their hunting supplies, but it's never too early to figure out what to do with your venison after you get it. Here are five great ways to use up your venison.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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1. Summer Sausage

Although the recipe calls for beef, I've only used venison to make this summer sausage, and it's turned out amazing every time. Since I own an electric smoker, I smoke it using hickory wood chips and the same time and temperature listed in the recipe.

You can find the recipe here.

2. Whiskey Deer Jerky

There are probably as many methods to making jerky as there are stars in the sky, but this jerky recipe is especially delicious. Even if you don't have a smoker or dehydrator, you can always cook jerky in the oven, as long as you check on it every hour or two. I typically slice up venison steaks (against the grain) for my jerky meat.

You can find the recipe here.

3. Deer Camp Casserole

My fiance and I dislike most casserole recipes, but Deer Camp Casserole is a huge exception. It's like a deconstructed venison lasagna, but with egg noodles. When it's fresh out of the oven, the egg noodles on top get a little crunchy, and it's absolutely amazing.

Check it out here.

4. Venison Liver and Onions

I'll be honest: I'm definitely in the minority for liking liver and onions. That said, venison liver tastes very different from beef liver. Don't rule it out; trust me, venison liver and onions is delicious. My fiance cooks it for me, and it's one of the best meals he makes.

You can find the recipe he uses here.

5. Drunk Deer Chili

It's easy to make; it's hearty; it's got booze in it. What's not to love? This is one of my favorite chili recipes. I like to make it on lazy Sundays, or if I have time, I'll throw everything in the crock pot before work. It's done by the time I come home!

Check out the recipe here.

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