Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make using an air fryer
Customizable to your preferred spice level
Full of rich, savory flavor without preservatives
Perfect for a high-protein snack or travel-friendly food

Ingredients

Beef sirloin or flank steak
Soy sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Brown sugar
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika (optional)
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper (optional)

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

Directions

Slice the Beef: Freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make it easier to slice. Cut into 1/8 to 1/4 inch strips against the grain.
Make the Marinade: Combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
Marinate the Beef: Coat the beef strips with the marinade and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°F (82°C).
Arrange and Cook: Lay the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry and slightly chewy.
Cool and Store: Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or zip-top bag.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 8-10 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 4 hours or overnight
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 1 day

Variations

Add chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
Use different cuts of beef like round steak or eye of round.
Experiment with adding maple syrup or honey for a sweet touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Yes, flank steak or round steak work well too. Just trim off any fat.

How thick should I slice the beef?

Aim for 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick strips for the best jerky texture.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add other spices to suit your heat preference.

Can I marinate for less than 4 hours?

Marinating for 4 hours gives the best flavor, but you can marinate for as little as 1 hour.

Can I freeze the jerky?

Yes, freeze the jerky for up to 3 months, and thaw before eating.

Conclusion

Air fryer beef jerky is a game-changer for anyone craving a savory, protein-packed snack. This easy method allows you to make delicious jerky in a fraction of the time, all while customizing the flavor to your liking. Whether you’re enjoying it at home or on the go, homemade beef jerky is sure to become a favorite treat!

Air Fryer Beef Jerky

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 1 day
Yield: About 8-10 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Make delicious, tender, and flavorful beef jerky right at home using your air fryer! This quick recipe offers a customizable, preservative-free snack packed with protein. Perfect for on-the-go or for a high-protein snack, you can tailor the seasoning and spice level to suit your preferences.

Instructions

Slice the Beef:
Freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Cut the beef into 1/8 to 1/4 inch strips against the grain for the best texture.
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Marinate the Beef:
Coat the beef strips in the marinade, ensuring each strip is evenly covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 180°F (82°C) and let it preheat while you arrange the beef.
Arrange and Cook:
Lay the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry, slightly chewy, and has a firm texture.
Cool and Store:
Remove the jerky from the air fryer and allow it to cool completely. Store the jerky in an airtight container or zip-top bag for maximum freshness.

Notes

Variations:

Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or more cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Try using maple syrup or honey for a sweet touch.

Experiment with different beef cuts such as round steak or eye of round.

Storage/Reheating:

Storage:
Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in the air fryer at 180°F (82°C) for about 5 minutes if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Category: Snack
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American