Let me tell you, making air fryer beef jerky at home is an absolute game-changer! It’s so simple, and the flavors are just incredible. Using an air fryer means you can whip up this delicious snack without the fuss of a traditional dehydrator. Trust me, the first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how easy it was! Plus, there’s something so satisfying about crafting your own snacks, knowing exactly what’s going into them. Whether you’re heading out for a hike or just need a tasty nibble while binge-watching your favorite show, this homemade jerky is a must-try!

Ingredients List

2 pounds beef (flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips against the grain)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

How to Prepare Instructions

Prepare the Beef

First things first, let’s get that beef ready! I usually go for flank steak or sirloin, but honestly, any cut you prefer will work. Make sure to slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. The trick here is to slice against the grain—this ensures the jerky will be tender and not too chewy. Trust me, you want your jerky to be enjoyable to eat!

Make the Marinade

Now, let’s whip up that marinade! In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke. Add in 1 tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness, then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for some heat. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Oh, the smell is divine already!

Marinate the Beef

Next, it’s time to marinate the beef strips. Place them in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over the meat. Make sure every piece is coated nicely. For the best flavor, let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. This marinating time lets all those delicious flavors soak in, making your jerky truly unforgettable!

Air Frying Process

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C). This low temperature is key to getting that perfect jerky texture. Once preheated, arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; you want good air circulation for even cooking. Cook for 4 to 6 hours, checking periodically for your desired dryness. The longer you cook, the drier it gets, so keep an eye on it!

Cooling and Storing

Once your jerky is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it cool on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial—it helps to firm up the texture. Once cooled, store your homemade jerky in an airtight container. If stored properly, it can last for several weeks, making it the perfect snack to have on hand. Just be careful; it might disappear faster than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have your homemade jerky ready to go! No long hours waiting around—just slice, marinate, and air fry!
Easy Cleanup: Using an air fryer means less mess compared to traditional methods. Just pop the basket in the dishwasher or give it a quick wash, and you’re done!
Customizable Flavors: This recipe is a blank canvas! Feel free to tweak the marinade to your liking—add your favorite spices, or swap soy sauce for teriyaki for a sweet twist!
Healthy Snacking Option: Say goodbye to store-bought snacks packed with preservatives. This air fryer beef jerky is low in fat and high in protein, making it a guilt-free snack for any time of day.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re prepping for a road trip, a hiking adventure, or just need a snack at home, this jerky fits the bill every time!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your air fryer beef jerky turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Cut: While flank steak and sirloin are great options, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cuts like round or brisket. Just make sure it’s lean to avoid excess fat!
Slice Uniformly: Consistency is key when slicing the beef. Aim for even thickness so that all the pieces cook at the same rate. If you have a meat slicer, now’s the time to use it!
Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 4 hours is the minimum, I highly recommend letting your beef marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more those flavors will infuse into the meat!
Don’t Skip the Liquid Smoke: This ingredient is what gives your jerky that amazing smoky flavor without having to smoke it traditionally. It really elevates the taste!
Check for Doneness: Jerky should be dry but still slightly pliable. To test, bend a piece; it should crack but not break. If it snaps, it may be overdone.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the marinade to suit your taste! Want it sweeter? Add a bit more honey. Need more heat? Toss in some cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes!
Store Properly: Remember to let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its texture and freshness for weeks!
Rotate for Even Cooking: If your air fryer doesn’t have a rotating basket, give the jerky a little shake halfway through cooking to ensure even drying.

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making air fryer beef jerky in no time. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to sneak a piece or two while it’s still warm—trust me, it’s irresistible!

Variations

One of the best parts about making air fryer beef jerky at home is how versatile it can be! You can easily switch up the flavors to keep things exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations to try:

Teriyaki Twist: Swap out the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add a tablespoon of sesame oil. This gives your jerky a sweet and savory Asian flair that’s absolutely delicious!
Spicy Sriracha: If you love heat, add a couple of tablespoons of Sriracha to the marinade. This will give your jerky a serious kick that’s perfect for spice lovers!
Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into your marinade for a fresh flavor boost. These herbs can add a lovely aromatic quality to your jerky.
Smoky BBQ: For a barbecue flavor, add your favorite BBQ sauce in place of honey and adjust the liquid smoke accordingly. This variation is great for those who love that classic smoky taste!
Citrus Zest: Incorporate some fresh lemon or lime juice and zest into the marinade for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef. It’s refreshing and adds a nice twist!
Sweet and Spicy: Combine honey with some cayenne pepper for a sweet yet spicy profile. This balance of flavors will keep you coming back for more!
Garlic Lovers: If you can’t get enough garlic, double the amount of garlic powder or even add freshly minced garlic to the marinade for a bold flavor punch.
Maple Bacon: Try using maple syrup instead of honey and add some crumbled bacon bits to the marinade for a sweet and savory combination that’s totally indulgent!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect jerky flavor. The sky’s the limit, so get creative and have fun with it! Just remember to adjust the marinating time and ingredients based on what you choose to ensure your jerky turns out just right.

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious air fryer beef jerky! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific cuts of beef you use and any tweaks you make to the marinade. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 ounce):

Calories: 70
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 350mg
Cholesterol: 30mg

This snack is packed with protein and is relatively low in fat, which makes it a great option for a healthy, satisfying treat. Plus, with just a hint of sweetness and a kick of flavor, you’ll feel good about reaching for this jerky any time hunger strikes!

FAQ Section

How long should I marinate the beef for air fryer beef jerky?
For the best flavor, I recommend marinating your beef strips for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! The longer the beef sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

How do I know when the jerky is done?
You’ll want to check for that perfect texture! Jerky should be dry but still slightly pliable. To test it, bend a piece; it should crack but not break. If it snaps completely, it may be overdone. Keep an eye on it during the last hour of cooking!

Can I store homemade beef jerky? How long does it last?
Absolutely! Once your jerky has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container. If stored properly, it can last for several weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness!

Can I make air fryer beef jerky with different cuts of meat?
Yes, you can! While flank steak and sirloin are my go-to cuts, feel free to experiment with other lean cuts like round or brisket. Just make sure to trim off any excess fat to ensure it dries properly.

What if I don’t have liquid smoke?
If you’re out of liquid smoke, don’t worry! You can either skip it for a more straightforward flavor or substitute it with a bit of smoked paprika for that smoky touch. You might miss the exact flavor, but it’ll still taste delicious!

Can I use a different marinade?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to switch up the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. You can add different spices, sauces, or even sweeteners to create your own unique flavor profile!

Is this air fryer beef jerky gluten-free?
To make your jerky gluten-free, simply swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free version or use tamari. Just be sure to check labels if you’re sensitive to gluten!

Can I freeze the beef jerky?
Yes! If you want to keep your jerky for an extended period, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Thaw it in the fridge before snacking, and it’ll be just as tasty!

Airfryer Beef Jerky: 7 Bold Flavors You Must Try

Author: Emma Schweitzer
Total Time: 255 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

Homemade air fryer beef jerky that is flavorful and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef (flank steak or sirloin)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Slice the beef into thin strips.
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Marinate the beef strips in the mixture for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C).
Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 4-6 hours, checking for desired dryness.
Remove the jerky and let it cool before storing.

Notes

Store jerky in an airtight container.
It can last for several weeks if stored properly.
Adjust spices based on your taste preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ounce
Calories: 70
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: airfryer beef jerky, homemade jerky, beef snacks