Air Fryer Beef Jerky rolls like a campfire tale, drawing you in with sizzling heat and smoky-sweet aroma. Imagine thinly sliced beef bathed in a tangy blend of soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, real maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and a hint of liquid smoke. In just an hour, your air fryer transforms these strips into tender, chewy perfection. Each bite bursts with savory depth and a whisper of sweetness that dances on your tongue. Whether you’re chasing adventure on the trail or craving a protein-packed snack at home, this playful recipe promises pure joy in every mouthwatering strip.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days.
- Customizable flavors to suit your taste buds.
- Healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.
- Perfectly chewy texture that satisfies cravings.
- Great for meal prep or on-the-go snacking.
Air Fryer Beef Jerky
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Thinly slice beef against the grain into 1/8 inch strips. This helps the jerky to be tender and easy to chew.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will give your jerky a fantastic flavor.
- Step 3: Add the beef strips to the marinade, tossing to coat them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F). This ensures that your jerky cooks evenly.
- Step 5: Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping for the best results.
- Step 6: Cook the beef jerky for 2 hours, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Step 7: After 2 hours, check the jerky for doneness. If it’s still too moist, cook for an additional 15–30 minutes until it reaches your desired texture.
- Step 8: Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Beef Jerky!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 5g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 3g |
Ingredients
Get ready to make some delicious Air Fryer Beef Jerky with these simple ingredients!
- 1 lb lean beef – flank or sirloin, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds savory flavor
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – enhances depth of taste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar – balances the savory flavors
- 1 tsp garlic powder – gives a fragrant kick
- 1 tsp onion powder – complements the garlic
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – adds a touch of heat
- pinch of salt – to enhance overall flavor
How to Make Air Fryer Beef Jerky
Making Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a fun and rewarding process! With a preparation time of about 4 hours (or overnight for best flavor), and a cooking time of 2 hours, you’ll have delicious jerky ready to enjoy. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Step 1: Thinly Slice the Beef
Thinly slice beef against the grain into 1/8 inch strips. This helps the jerky to be tender and easy to chew.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will give your jerky a fantastic flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Add the beef strips to the marinade, tossing to coat them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F). This ensures that your jerky cooks evenly.
Step 5: Arrange the Beef Strips
Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping for the best results.
Step 6: Cook the Jerky
Cook the beef jerky for 2 hours, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
After 2 hours, check the jerky for doneness. If it’s still too moist, cook for an additional 15–30 minutes until it reaches your desired texture.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Beef Jerky!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Snack |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 240 minutes |
| Cook Time | 120 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes (Refrigerating) |
| Total Time | 360 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | As a delicious snack! |
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Choose lean cuts of beef for the best texture.
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Slice the meat against the grain for tenderness.
- Check for doneness regularly to avoid over-drying.
- Store in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
How to Serve this Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Enjoy as a high-protein snack on the go.
- Pair with your favorite nut butter for a savory twist.
- Serve alongside fresh veggies and hummus for a healthy platter.
- Use as a topping for salads to add a flavorful crunch.
- Include in a charcuterie board with cheese and crackers.
- Mix into trail mix for an energizing boost during hikes.
- Wrap in lettuce leaves with avocado for a low-carb treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your Air Fryer Beef Jerky fresh and tasty:
Storing Air Fryer Beef Jerky Leftovers
- Let the jerky cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or resealable bag.
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 week.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate.
Freezing Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Wrap jerky tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C).
- Place jerky in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Enjoy immediately for the best texture and taste.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How long does it take to dehydrate jerky in an air fryer?
Dehydrating jerky in an air fryer typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the thickness of the meat and the temperature setting. It’s important to check the jerky periodically to ensure it reaches your desired level of dryness and chewiness. Remember, the lower the temperature, the longer it will take, but it will yield a more tender jerky!
2. Is jerky good in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Making jerky in an air fryer can yield delicious results. The air fryer circulates hot air around the meat, allowing it to dry evenly while retaining flavor. Plus, it’s a quicker method compared to traditional dehydrators, making it a great option for homemade jerky lovers!
3. Is an air fryer or dehydrator better for beef jerky?
Both appliances have their merits, but it often comes down to personal preference. An air fryer is faster and can produce crispy jerky, while a dehydrator is designed specifically for drying foods and may provide a more consistent result over longer periods. If you have both, you might enjoy experimenting with each to find your favorite!
4. How do you dehydrate beef in an air fryer?
To dehydrate beef in an air fryer, start by slicing your beef into thin strips and marinating it in your favorite seasoning mix. Preheat the air fryer to a low temperature (around 160°F or 70°C), then arrange the beef strips in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 2 to 4 hours, checking for doneness and flipping the strips halfway through. Once done, let the jerky cool before storing it in an airtight container!
Final Thoughts
Making Air Fryer Beef Jerky is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful adventure! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty snack that brings back memories of road trips and camping. So, gather your friends or family, whip up a batch, and enjoy the satisfying crunch. You’ll be amazed at how rewarding and fun this is!