Deer Crock Pot Recipe with Citrus Salad

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with deer shanks, this Deer Crock Pot Recipe with Citrus Salad is the answer. Too often, these tough cuts get overlooked, but slow cooking transforms them into something rich, tender, and deeply satisfying. And the best part? It’s easy. This meal is perfect for busy parents who want a nourishing, no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor.

Don't have deer shanks? You can use a deer roast instead!

Why You'll Love This Citrus Salad Recipe

As a wild game chef, recipe developer, husband, and father, I'm always trying to create easy wild game recipes for busy parents. Deer shank meat needs time to break down, and the Crock Pot does all the work for you. While the deer shank cooks, its bold, meaty flavor intensifies. The Italian seasoning mix infuses the broth with just the right amount of herby flavor. Paired with a bright onion and citrus salad, this dish is both comforting and refreshing.

The combination of hot, shredded deer meat and cool, juicy oranges might not be traditional, but it works. Think of a mojo marinade in Cuban cooking - which was my inspiration for this deer shank recipe idea. The acidity and sweetness of the fruit balance the richness of the meat.

This meal feels hearty yet light - something you can enjoy year-round.

Ingredients

• 2 whole deer shanks (from two legs)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for serving
• 2 Tablespoons canola oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix packet (.7 ounce envelope)
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 6 small oranges (such as blood, mandarin, and navel), peeled, halved, sliced
• Juice from ½ lemon
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped rosemary

How to Make This Deer Crock Pot Recipe

1. Season the shanks all over with 1 ½ teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shanks for about 5 minutes, turning to brown all sides.

3. Transfer the browned deer shanks to a large Crock Pot. Add the beef broth and Italian seasoning mix. Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours or High for 5 to 6 hours. The meat should be fall-apart tender.

4. Remove the shanks from the slow cooker. Shred the meat with tongs or a fork, discarding bones, tendons, and excess fat.

5. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced onion and oranges with lemon juice. Season with the remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt.

6. Divide the shredded deer meat between four plates. Arrange the onion and orange slices next to the meat.

7. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary, freshly ground pepper, and drizzle some of the flavorful cooking juices over the top.

8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips For This Crock Pot Deer Recipe

• Searing is key: Don’t skip this step! Browning the deer shanks (Maillard reaction) before slow cooking adds a deeper, caramelized flavor and aroma.
• Use a mix of citrus: Blood oranges bring a hint of berry-like sweetness, while mandarins and navel oranges add classic citrus flavor.
• Save the cooking liquid: The broth left in the Crock Pot is full of flavor. Spoon it over the meat before serving or save it for another meal.
• Make it ahead: This recipe reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Why This Crock Pot Deer and Citrus Salad Works

Cooking deer shanks in a Crock Pot allows the connective tissue to break down, creating a silky, fork-tender texture. The natural collagen in the meat thickens the broth, giving it body and depth. Meanwhile, the citrus salad keeps things fresh, cutting through the richness with every bite.

This dish proves that wild game doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a meal that feels special but requires minimal effort. If you’ve got a deer shank sitting in your freezer, this is the recipe to try next.

More Deer Shank Recipes

If you love this Crock Pot Deer Recipe and are looking for more ideas on how to cook with those deer shanks in your freezer, be sure and check out these family favorites:

• Cuban Ropa Vieja
• Easy Pizza Roll Ups
• Deer BBQ Sandwiches with Pimento Cheese
• Shawarma Spiced Deer Shanks
• Venison Rogan Josh
• Venison Shank Frito Pie
• Venison Tikka Masala

Come Deer Hunting in North Dakota

If you are headed our way for North Dakota deer season, check out the North Dakota Game & Fish Department website. And if you want me to come along with you as your camp cook, photographer, or butcher, you can find out more details here.

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DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

If you make this Crock Pot Deer Shank and Citrus Salad Recipe, tag @wildgameandfish so I can share it on my Instagram stories.

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