INGREDIENTS

1 ½ lbs ground venison

1 egg

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp Parmesan and Romano cheese, grated

Fresh diced basil (amount to preference)

½ tbsp ground black pepper

Slices of Cooper Sharp cheese

Olive oil

Angel hair pasta

Vodka sauce

Large mixing bowl

Metal pan

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Dice fresh basil to your preference. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground venison, 1 cracked egg, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan and Romano cheese, ½ tbsp ground black pepper, and the diced basil. Mix by hand until ingredients come together, forming a large, firm ball. Add more breadcrumbs if needed for a firmer texture, but avoid overloading to preserve flavor.

Step 2:
Preheat your smoker to 340°F using hickory pellets (or your preferred flavor). If using an oven, preheat to 400°F.

Step 3:
Cut slices of Cooper Sharp cheese into small square pieces and stack three squares together. Form the venison mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Press your thumb into the center of each ball to create a pocket, insert the stacked cheese, and gently cover to form the meatball.

Step 4:
Drizzle olive oil onto a metal pan and brush a little more oil on top of the meatballs for a nice crust. Place the meatballs on the pan.

Step 5:
Place the pan in the smoker for 30 minutes at 340°F. If using the oven, bake at 400°F for 25 minutes.

Step 6:
While the meatballs cook, boil water in a large pot with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Strain the pasta and return to the pot. Add vodka sauce and stir to coat evenly.

Step 7:
Once the meatballs are done cooking, let them rest for 5 minutes. When you see cheese oozing out, you'll know they’re ready!

Step 8:
Serve pasta topped with vodka sauce in a bowl, place the venison meatballs on top, and garnish with fresh basil and shaved Parmesan.

Enjoy the dish and be thankful for the bounty nature provides!

This recipe combines the richness of wild game with Italian-inspired flavors for a unique and delicious meal.