Beef Jerky Recipe
This beef jerky recipe is the perfect way to make flavorful, chewy, and protein-packed jerky at home. A rich homemade beef jerky recipe marinade made with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and spices gives every strip of beef an irresistible sweet, smoky, and savory flavor. Whether you prefer a beef jerky recipe dehydrator, beef jerky recipe oven, beef jerky recipe smoker, or even a beef jerky recipe air fryer, this versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your favorite cooking method. It’s ideal for road trips, camping, hiking, meal prep, or a healthy homemade snack. Discover more flavorful recipes like Beef Jerky Recipe right here.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon meat tenderizer
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Beef
- 2 pounds beef round steak, sliced into thin strips
Directions
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, meat tenderizer, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the beef jerky recipe marinade is well blended.
Arrange the beef strips in a large baking dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure every strip is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Remove the marinated beef from the refrigerator and lightly pat away any excess marinade. Place each strip between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/8-inch thickness for even drying.
For the classic beef jerky recipe dehydrator method, arrange the beef strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays without overlapping. Dry at the highest recommended temperature for about 4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your preferred chewy texture.
To prepare a beef jerky recipe oven, place the strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake at 170 to 180°F (75 to 82°C) for 2 to 3 hours, turning once halfway through, until the jerky is dry but still flexible.
For a beef jerky recipe smoker or smoked beef jerky recipe, smoke the marinated beef at 165 to 180°F until completely dried while maintaining a tender bite. This method adds an extra layer of smoky flavor.
If making a beef jerky recipe air fryer, arrange the strips in a single layer and cook at the lowest dehydration setting or about 180°F for 2 to 3 hours, checking periodically until the desired texture is achieved.
Allow the finished jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It stays fresh for several weeks at room temperature and even longer when refrigerated.
Preparation Details
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Marinating Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10
