Air Fryer Beef Jerky

If you’ve ever craved beef jerky but didn’t want to wait hours (or days!) for it to dry out in a dehydrator, then this Air Fryer Beef Jerky is about to change your snacking game. Tender strips of beef marinated in a savory blend of seasonings, then crisped to perfection in the air fryer. It’s got that perfect combination of chewy, smoky, and savory that makes jerky so irresistible, and the best part? You can make it at home in just a couple of hours! Seriously, if you love snacks that are both flavorful and packed with protein, this one is a winner. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t go back to store-bought jerky.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Beef Jerky

This homemade beef jerky is everything you love about the store-bought version—only better. Here’s why it’s going to be your new favorite snack:

Quick and Easy

No need for a dehydrator or hours of waiting. The air fryer speeds up the process and gives you perfectly crispy jerky in about 2 hours. It’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Customizable Flavors

The marinade is where all the magic happens. You can tweak the seasonings to suit your taste. Want something spicy? Add more cayenne or chili flakes. Prefer a sweet kick? A touch of honey or brown sugar will do the trick. The possibilities are endless.

Healthy Snack

Beef jerky is a great high-protein snack, and when you make it yourself, you can control the ingredients. No preservatives or unnecessary additives—just pure, delicious, and clean beef jerky.

Perfect for Meal Prep

You can make a big batch of this jerky and store it for the week ahead. It’s an easy snack to take on the go, whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just need something to munch on between meals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty and flavorful Air Fryer Beef Jerky:

For the Marinade:

• Soy Sauce: The salty base that adds depth to the flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a rich, tangy kick that balances out the soy sauce.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor.
• Onion Powder: Gives the jerky a warm, sweet depth.
• Black Pepper: For a bit of mild heat and flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: For that smoky, BBQ-like flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional, for a little heat if you like spicy jerky.
• Beef: Choose a lean cut like flank steak, sirloin, or round steak. You want the meat to be tender and easy to slice thinly.

Instructions

Ready to make some seriously flavorful beef jerky? Here’s how:

Step 1: Slice the Beef

First, trim any excess fat from your beef. You want to avoid fat since it can cause the jerky to spoil faster. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips—about 1/4-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the quicker they’ll dry out.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir it all together until the honey or sugar is dissolved.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better for maximum flavor). The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your jerky will be.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C). If your air fryer doesn’t go that low, set it to the lowest possible setting. Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.

Step 5: Arrange the Beef Strips in the Air Fryer

Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels (this helps the jerky crisp up). Arrange the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Try not to overlap the pieces too much; you want air to circulate around them for even drying.

Step 6: Air Fry the Beef Jerky

Cook the jerky in the air fryer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how thick the slices are and how chewy you want your jerky. Flip the beef halfway through the cooking time to ensure even drying. Keep an eye on it towards the end—you want it dry and firm but not too brittle.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Once your jerky is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Store the jerky in an airtight container, and it should last for up to 1-2 weeks at room temperature, or longer if you refrigerate it.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 200-250 (depending on the type of beef used and the amount of marinade)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 1.5-2 hours
Total Time: 4-12 hours (including marinating time)

How to Serve Air Fryer Beef Jerky

While this jerky is perfect all on its own, here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Snack on the Go: Pack it in your bag for a protein-packed snack while traveling or hiking.
• Pair with Cheese: Serve with your favorite cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, for a savory snack platter.
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Include the jerky along with cured meats, crackers, fruits, and nuts for an elevated snack.
• Add to Salads: Chop the jerky into smaller pieces and sprinkle it on top of a salad for a protein boost.

Additional Tips

• Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the beef, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight is ideal, but 4 hours is the minimum.
• Thickness of Meat: The thickness of the slices affects the drying time. If your slices are thicker than 1/4 inch, you might need to increase the cook time by 15-20 minutes.
• Storage: If you want your jerky to last even longer, you can vacuum-seal it and store it in the freezer for several months.
• Air Fryer Size: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the jerky in batches. Just be sure not to overcrowd the basket for the best results.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A1: Yes! You can use chicken, turkey, or pork, but be aware that the cooking time and texture may vary depending on the meat.

Q2: How do I know when the jerky is done?
A2: Your jerky should be dry and firm, with no visible moisture. It should bend but not break completely. If it snaps easily, it’s likely overcooked.

Q3: Can I make jerky without soy sauce?
A3: Yes! If you’re avoiding soy, try using coconut aminos or a liquid seasoning alternative. You can also use a salt-based brine if you prefer.

Q4: Can I make the jerky spicier?
A4: Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even some hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.

Q5: Can I make this jerky ahead of time?
A5: Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch, and store it in an airtight container. It’ll last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.

Q6: Can I store this jerky in the fridge?
A6: Yes! If you prefer, you can refrigerate your jerky, and it will keep for 2-3 weeks.

Q7: Can I freeze beef jerky?
A7: Yes! Beef jerky freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge before eating.

Q8: Is beef jerky healthy?
A8: Yes, it’s a high-protein snack, low in carbs, and without the preservatives found in store-bought jerky. Just be mindful of the sodium in the marinade.

Q9: Can I use a different air fryer temperature?
A9: The key is low and slow. If your air fryer doesn’t go as low as 180°F, try cooking at 200°F and monitor it more closely.

Q10: How can I make jerky more tender?
A10: If you want a more tender jerky, slice the beef with the grain rather than against it. This will give it a chewier texture.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Beef Jerky is everything you want in a snack—flavorful, chewy, and just the right amount of crispy

. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can make it as spicy or savory as you like. No need to buy expensive jerky again when you can make it yourself in less time. Happy snacking!

Print