Squirrel can be a tasty and sustainable meat option if prepared properly. There are several techniques for cooking squirrel depending on the equipment you have available. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook squirrel in 4 different ways.

1. How To Cook Squirrel in Oven

Ingredients

  • 1 whole squirrel
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

Prepare the squirrel by removing all innards and skin. Rinse squirrel and pat dry with paper towels.

Next, rub squirrel all over with olive oil. Then sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme evenly over the squirrel.

Place the seasoned squirrel on a roasting rack set inside a baking dish and position the squirrel breast side up.

Roast at 400°F for about 40-50 minutes, until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat reaches 165°F.

Tent foil over the squirrel for the last 15 minutes to keep it from drying out.

Once fully cooked, remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. Squirrel pairs well with roasted veggies or rice.

2. How To Cook Squirrel in Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 1 squirrel, cut into 8 pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1⁄2 tspblack pepper

Instructions

Cut the squirrel into 8 pieces no more than 2-inches thick so they cook evenly.

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, paprika and pepper. Then toss the squirrel pieces in the seasoning mixture until fully coated.

Next, arrange pieces in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry at 370°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Check frequently and adjust cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking. The squirrel is done when the exterior gets crispy.

Allow pieces to rest 5 minutes before serving with your choice of sides.

3. How To Cook Squirrel in Pan

Ingredients

  • 1 squirrel
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

Prepare squirrel by removing innards, skin, and fat. Rinse and cut into 6 smaller pieces. Then season pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano

Heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add seasoned squirrel pieces in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd. Brown pieces on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 12-15 more minutes until meat is no longer pink inside. Flip and move pieces occasionally as they cook to prevent sticking. Add more oil if needed. Cook until squirrel reaches internal temperature of 165°F.

Remove from heat. Let rest 5 minutes before serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

4. How To Cook Squirrel on Grill

Ingredients

  • 1 squirrel
  • 1⁄4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1⁄2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the squirrel as above, discarding innards, skin, and fat. Rinse and pat dry. Cut or debone squirrel into smaller, manageable pieces for grilling.

In a resealable bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Then add squirrel pieces, seal, and marinate 15-30 minutes.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Oil the grates. Remove squirrel from marinade and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Turn occasionally to prevent burning.

Move to indirect heat if pieces begin to char. Grill with lid closed until internal temp reaches 165°F.

You can brush on a glaze or barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling if desired.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Pair with veggies, potatoes, or bread.

Now, you know how to cook squirrel perfectly at home. With the proper preparation and cooking, squirrel can be a unique, tasty, and sustainable meat. It pairs well with various seasonings and sides.

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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