Why Air Fryer Beef Jerky is the Best Way to Make Beef Jerky at Home

If you’re a fan of beef jerky, you know how expensive it can be to buy at the store. But what if I told you that you could make your own delicious, tender, and flavorful beef jerky at home—using an air fryer? That’s right! Air fryer beef jerky is not only easy to make but also yields perfectly dehydrated, savory strips of jerky that rival any store-bought version. Plus, you get to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Let’s dive into the recipe and tips to make the best air fryer beef jerky at home.

Air fryer beef jerky is the best way to make beef jerky at home

Ingredients

1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin steak, round steak) [Note 1]

½ cup Worcestershire sauce

½ cup soy sauce

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp chili flakes, optional, or add more for spicy jerky

Instructions

1. Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Cut beef slices into strips or squares.

3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensure that all surfaces of the beef are covered by the marinade.

4. Cover the bowl and place in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 3 hours.

5. Remove beef from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

6. Place beef strips in air fryer basket in a single layer – ensure it is not overlapping.

7. Air fry beef strips until completely dehydrated. Set to air fry at 210°F (100°C) for two hours, then check the jerky. If it is not completely dried out continue to air fry for 15-20 minute intervals until it is ready. It needs to reach 160°F/71°C [Note 2].

8. When the jerky is ready, allow to cool and store in an air tight container.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Beef Jerky

  • Choose the Right Cut: Lean cuts like sirloin or round steak work best for jerky, as they have less fat, which helps prevent spoilage.
  • Slice Against the Grain: For tender jerky, slice the beef against the grain. For a chewier texture, slice with the grain.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the beef strips in a single layer to ensure even drying.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the marinade with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a splash of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer to make beef jerky is a game-changer. It dehydrates the meat evenly and efficiently, without the need for a dedicated dehydrator. Plus, the air fryer’s compact size makes it perfect for small batches, and it’s much faster than traditional oven methods.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer beef jerky is a simple, cost-effective, and delicious way to enjoy this protein-packed snack at home. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create jerky that’s tailored to your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a road trip, a hiking adventure, or just a tasty treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

So, grab your air fryer and give this recipe a try—you’ll never go back to store-bought jerky again!

Notes:

  1. Beef Selection: For the best results, choose lean cuts of beef and trim off any excess fat.
  2. Food Safety: Ensure the jerky reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.

Enjoy your homemade air fryer beef jerky!