File this one under “easy wild game appetizers that everyone will enjoy.”

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This easy venison appetizer is the perfect dish to serve to a crowd. Images by author

It starts with a pack of mini pretzel bites. These small bites are available from many brands and are usually found in the deli section of the grocery.

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Check the deli section of your grocery for pretzel bites.

The bites are about the size of golf balls. Slice them open to make a tiny bun.

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Slice the pretzel bites to make mini buns.

Next on the list is the venison. Use backstrap or top round for this one. I like to marinate it for an hour or two in either Dale’s or Allegro marinade. Use your favorite brand and flavor.

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Marinate the venison and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.

After the marinade, grill the venison to rare. It will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overdo it on the grill, just sear the surface for flavor, about 3-4 minutes per side should do. You are shooting for 115-120 degrees internal temperature.

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Grill the venison to rare. It will continue to cook in the oven after you make the sliders.

While the venison grills, pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees. Cover the bottom of a 13x9 baking dish with a layer of the split pretzel bites. When the venison hits your desired temperature, pull it and let it rest while you make the sauce.

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Layer the bottom of a baking dish with the sliced pretzel buns.

In a small saucepan, heat the butter until it bubbles. Add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, and salt. Stir well to combine and remove the pan from the heat.

Slice the venison into bites to match the size of the buns. Add a slice to each bun half. Top with a small amount of nacho cheese sauce and either a sliced jalapeño or pickle.

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Top each slider with nacho cheese and either a pickle or sliced jalapeño.

You can also used sliced cheese if you prefer. Add the top buns. Drizzle the sauce over the bites, covering well. Sprinkle the tops with coarse kosher or sea salt.

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Drizzle the sauce over the top of each bun, and then bake.

Place the pan in the oven and cook 10-15 minutes or until the sliders have heated through and the cheese is fully melted. Spear each slider with a toothpick and serve immediately.

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