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Air Fryer Beef Jerky


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: Varies
  • Yield: 1012 oz jerky per 1 lb beef 1x

Description

Make air fryer beef jerky at home with this easy, healthy, and flavorful recipe. Using lean beef, a savory marinade, and the air fryer, you can create protein-packed jerky without preservatives. Perfect for snacking, meal prep, and outdoor adventures!


Ingredients

Scale

Beef

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin, round, or eye of round)

Marinade

  • ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for soy-free)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar for sweetness)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Beef

  1. Trim excess fat from the beef.
  2. Slice into ¼-inch thick strips (slice against the grain for tender jerky).

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

  1. In a bowl, mix Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, honey, onion powder, and chili flakes.
  2. Stir until combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

  1. Add beef slices to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

  1. Remove beef from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 175°F (80°C).
  3. Arrange beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Step 5: Cook the Jerky

  1. Air fry at 175°F (80°C) for 2 hours.
  2. Check for doneness—jerky should be firm, dry, and slightly bendable.
  3. If needed, continue air frying in 15–20 minute intervals until fully dried.
  4. Ensure the jerky reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Cool & Store

  1. Let jerky cool completely before storing.
  2. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

  • For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 30 minutes before cutting.
  • If jerky is too salty, briefly rinse the meat before drying.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add ½ tsp liquid smoke to the marinade.
  • Test doneness by bending a piece—jerky should bend but not break.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2–3 hours
  • Category: Snacks
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg