Best Beef Jerky Ever

Homemade beef jerky is the ultimate snack for meat lovers—perfectly seasoned, tender, and full of flavor. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a deliciously chewy jerky that’s perfect for snacking, meal prepping, or taking on your next outdoor adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Jerky recipe offers a great balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. The lean beef is marinated in a combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey, then seasoned with garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and a bit of spice. Whether you’re prepping for the week, need a high-protein snack, or love homemade treats, this jerky is guaranteed to be a hit.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb lean beef (sirloin, flank steak, or round)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

directions

1. Slice the beef into thin strips, cutting against the grain to ensure tenderness.

2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).

3. Place the sliced beef into the marinade and mix to coat. Refrigerate the beef for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

4. Preheat your oven to 170°F (77°C) or use a dehydrator if you have one.

5. Arrange the marinated beef strips on a baking rack, making sure they don’t overlap.

6. Bake for 4-6 hours, flipping halfway through, until the beef is dry, chewy, and firm but not brittle.

7. Allow the jerky to cool before storing it in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
Calories: 150 kcal per serving

Variations

• Sweet and spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat or drizzle some hot honey on top of the jerky before serving.

• Smoky flavor: Increase the smoked paprika or add a bit of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky flavor.

• Teriyaki jerky: Swap honey for brown sugar and add a tablespoon of rice vinegar for a sweet, tangy kick.

• Herb-infused jerky: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a fresh herbal flavor in the marinade.

• Different meats: You can use turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative to beef jerky. Just adjust cooking time for thinner cuts.

storage/reheating

Store your homemade beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator or vacuum seal it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-30 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a dehydrator instead of the oven?

Yes, you can use a dehydrator for this recipe. Set it to the recommended temperature and dehydrate the jerky until it’s dry and chewy, usually around 4-6 hours.

How do I know when the jerky is done?

The jerky should be dry, chewy, and firm but not brittle. It should bend without breaking completely.

Can I make this jerky without honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetener, or omit it for a less sweet jerky.

How thin should I slice the beef?

Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick for the perfect texture. Thicker slices may need longer cooking time.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use any lean meat, such as turkey, chicken . Just ensure it’s sliced thinly and cooked appropriately.

Can I freeze homemade jerky?

Yes, you can freeze beef jerky for up to 6 months. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.

Can I add more spice to the jerky?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.

Can I make this jerky without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.

How do I store the jerky for longer shelf life?

To extend the shelf life, store jerky in vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze it.

What type of beef works best for jerky?

Lean cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or round roast work best for jerky because they are tender and easy to slice thin.

Conclusion

This Best Beef Jerky Ever recipe gives you a delicious, protein-packed snack that’s easy to make at home. With the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and sweet flavors, this homemade jerky is sure to satisfy your cravings and become your go-to snack. Perfect for meal prep or on-the-go energy, it’s a must-try recipe for any beef jerky lover.

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