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Best Beef Jerky Ever

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Homemade beef jerky is the ultimate savory, protein-packed snack. This easy recipe combines lean beef with a sweet and smoky marinade of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey, resulting in a tender, chewy snack that’s perfect for meal prep, road trips, or as a quick snack.

  • Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

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)

Instructions

  • Slice the Beef:
    Slice the beef into thin strips, cutting against the grain to ensure tenderness.

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

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

  • Preheat Oven/Dehydrator:
    Preheat your oven to 170°F (77°C) or use a dehydrator.

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

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

  • Cool & Store:
    Allow the jerky to cool before storing it in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Sweet and Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat or drizzle hot honey on top before serving.

  • Smoky Flavor: Increase the smoked paprika or add liquid smoke for extra smokiness.

  • Teriyaki Jerky: Swap honey for brown sugar and add a tablespoon of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.

  • Herb-Infused Jerky: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herby flavor.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-6 hours
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Dehydrated or Oven-Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free