Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories per Serving: 93 kcal
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Craving a high-protein, low-carb snack that’s full of bold, smoky flavor? This air fryer beef jerky is your new go-to! It’s incredibly easy to make, healthier than store-bought versions, and fully customizable to suit your taste. Plus, using your air fryer means faster dehydration and more consistent texture every time.
Whether you’re a jerky fanatic, on a keto diet, or just want a satisfying snack, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Beef
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1 lb beef steak, thinly sliced (sirloin, top round, or bottom round recommended)
💡 Tip: For chewier jerky, choose a lean and tougher cut like top or bottom round. For a more tender bite, opt for sirloin.
For the Marinade
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½ cup Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup soy sauce
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1 tbsp honey (or substitute with brown sugar)
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Beef
Trim off any visible fat (fat can spoil faster) and slice the beef into ¼-inch thick strips with the grain for a classic chewy texture.
🧊 Partially freezing the meat for 30 minutes makes slicing easier.
Or, ask your butcher to slice it for you!
2. Marinate
In a large bowl, whisk all marinade ingredients together. Add beef strips, ensuring they’re fully coated and not sticking together. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Dry and Arrange
Remove beef from marinade, pat dry thoroughly with paper towels, and lay the strips in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping so air circulates evenly.
🧺 Using a rack allows you to double the batch in smaller air fryers.
4. Air Fry
Set the air fryer to 175°F (80°C) and cook for 2 to 3 hours.
Start checking around the 2-hour mark, and continue in 15-minute intervals until the jerky is dry, chewy, and slightly pliable.
🌡 Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
You Must Know
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Don’t skip drying the beef before air frying — this helps it dehydrate, not steam.
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Store-bought jerky often contains preservatives and added sugars. Making your own lets you control every ingredient.
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Your air fryer model may vary, so monitor closely near the end.
Make Ahead and Storage
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Storage: Once cooled, store your jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months.
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Meal Prep: Make a big batch over the weekend for quick snacks all week!
Seasonal Variations
Switch things up with these flavor-packed marinade ideas:
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Teriyaki Jerky: Add garlic powder, ground ginger, and brown sugar to the base marinade.
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Smoky Jerky: Mix in a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
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Spicy Jerky: Crank up the chili flakes or add cayenne for extra heat.
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Sweet & Tangy: Try maple syrup and apple cider vinegar for a fall-inspired twist.
Serving Suggestions
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Pack it for hikes, road trips, or long commutes.
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Serve with cheese, nuts, and dried fruit for a DIY protein box.
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Chop and sprinkle over salads or grain bowls for extra flavor and texture.
No-Bake Alternative (Oven Method)
No air fryer? No problem!
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Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C).
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Place jerky strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
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Bake for 3–4 hours, flipping halfway through, until dried and chewy.
🔁 Rotate the tray as needed for even drying.
Pro Tips
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Uniform thickness is key for even drying.
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Dry thoroughly after marinating — this prevents steaming.
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Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Airflow = better jerky.
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Always check internal temp with a thermometer to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this jerky without marinating overnight?
Yes, but overnight marinating yields much richer flavor. Aim for at least 3 hours if you’re short on time.
How long will homemade beef jerky last?
Stored properly, up to 1 week at room temp, or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use ground beef for this recipe?
Ground beef needs a dehydrator or oven method and special preparation. Stick with sliced steak for air fryer jerky.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Just substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener or omit it entirely.
Final Thoughts
Homemade air fryer beef jerky is easier than you think—and way more delicious than store-bought. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and packed with protein. Whether you’re fueling a hike or just need a healthy snack, this recipe delivers every time.
