75+ Best Squirrel Recipes for Wild Game Lovers

From classic Southern fried squirrel to modern slow cooker dishes - discover delicious ways to prepare this underrated game meat. Trusted recipes from hunters across America.

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Why Cook Squirrel? A Hunter's Guide

Squirrel meat has been a staple of American hunting culture for generations. This lean, flavorful game meat is often compared to rabbit or dark chicken meat, with a slightly nutty taste from the squirrel's acorn-rich diet. Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking for new recipes or trying squirrel for the first time, our collection of 75+ tested recipes will help you create delicious meals.

Squirrel hunting is legal in most U.S. states and provides an excellent introduction to small game hunting. The meat is high in protein, low in fat, and extremely versatile in the kitchen. From traditional Southern preparations like fried squirrel and squirrel and dumplings to modern dishes like squirrel tacos and slow cooker stews, there's a recipe here for every taste.

Quick Facts: Cooking Squirrel Meat

  • Best cooking methods: Slow cooking, braising, frying, stewing
  • Ideal internal temperature: 165°F (74°C) minimum
  • Flavor profile: Mild, slightly nutty, similar to dark chicken meat
  • Pairs well with: Bacon, onions, mushrooms, root vegetables, gravy
  • Average yield: 2 squirrels serve 1-2 people
  • Modern tip: Use an Instant Pot or slow cooker to tenderize older squirrels

Browse Our Squirrel Recipes by Category

Fried Squirrel Recipes

Classic Southern-style fried squirrel remains the most popular preparation. These crispy, golden recipes are perfect for a camp meal or family dinner.

Squirrel Stews & Slow Cooker Recipes

Slow cooking is ideal for squirrel meat, making even older animals tender and flavorful. Perfect for busy days or camp cooking.

BBQ & Grilled Squirrel

Take your squirrel outdoors with these smoky, charred preparations perfect for the grill or smoker.

Cajun & Southern Specialties

Louisiana-inspired dishes bring bold flavors and spices to squirrel meat.

Roasted & Baked Squirrel

Oven-roasted squirrel makes for an elegant presentation and hands-off cooking.

Comfort Food Classics

Transform squirrel into familiar comfort food favorites the whole family will love.

Quick Meals & Sandwiches

Fast, easy preparations perfect for busy weeknights or camp lunches.

Unique & International Flavors

Adventurous recipes that take squirrel in new culinary directions.

More Delicious Squirrel Recipes

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Squirrel

Is squirrel meat safe to eat?

Yes, squirrel meat is safe to eat when properly handled and cooked. Always cook squirrel to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Avoid eating squirrels that appear sick or behave abnormally. Most hunters recommend wearing gloves when cleaning squirrels and washing hands thoroughly afterward. Squirrel meat has been safely consumed for centuries and remains popular in many parts of the United States.

How do you remove the gamey taste from squirrel?

Several techniques help reduce any gamey flavor in squirrel meat:

  • Soaking: Soak the meat in salted water, buttermilk, or milk overnight in the refrigerator
  • Brining: A salt and sugar brine for 4-8 hours tenderizes and flavors the meat
  • Vinegar bath: Soak in water with a splash of apple cider vinegar for 2-4 hours
  • Proper field dressing: Quick, clean field dressing prevents strong flavors
  • Age of animal: Younger squirrels tend to have milder flavor
What's the best way to cook squirrel?

The best cooking method depends on the age of the squirrel and your taste preferences:

  • Young squirrels: Can be fried, grilled, or roasted - they're naturally tender
  • Older squirrels: Best braised, stewed, or slow-cooked to tenderize the meat
  • Most popular method: Fried squirrel remains the classic preparation
  • Easiest method: Slow cooker or Instant Pot for hands-off cooking
  • Most flavorful: Smoking or BBQ adds depth to the mild meat
How long does squirrel meat last in the freezer?

Properly wrapped and frozen squirrel meat will last 6-12 months in the freezer. For best quality:

  • Vacuum seal if possible, or double-wrap in freezer paper and plastic
  • Label with the date and use oldest packages first
  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, never at room temperature
  • Once thawed, cook within 1-2 days
  • Cooked squirrel dishes freeze well for 2-3 months
How many squirrels do I need per person?

Plan for approximately 2 squirrels per adult for a main course. A dressed squirrel yields about 4-6 ounces of meat. For dishes where squirrel is mixed with other ingredients (stews, casseroles, dumplings), 1 squirrel per person is usually sufficient. Children typically eat 1 squirrel's worth of meat.

Can I use an Instant Pot or Air Fryer for squirrel?

Instant Pot: Excellent for squirrel! Pressure cooking tenderizes even tough older squirrels in 25-35 minutes. Great for stews, pulled squirrel, and making stock.

Air Fryer: Works well for breaded squirrel pieces. Pre-cook or parboil first for food safety, then air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes for crispy results with less oil than traditional frying.