Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Air Fryer Beef Jerky is chewy, tender, and incredibly delicious. Made with simple ingredients, this is the best beef jerky!

Air Fryer Beef Jerky

While you can go to the store and grab a bag of already cooked beef jerky, it’s even better homemade! This is a traditional beef jerky recipe that is filled with the classic flavors you love. But the best part is that it can be made in your air fryer in a few hours. And it’s DELICIOUS!

Years ago, I used to dehydrate my beef jerky in a smoker, and my children really loved it. Plus, I loved making them homemade treats. But now you can dehydrate beef jerky right in your air fryer, and I am going to share my foolproof method.

If you are looking for some other air fryer snacks, my family’s favorites are Copycat Air Fryer Cracker Jacks and KETO Air Fryer Pepperoni Chips.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Jerky Air Fryer Recipe

• Only 8 ingredients
• Great for an on-the-go snack
• Family-friendly
• Delicious
• Tender
• It’s the best beef jerky!

Air Fryer Beef Jerky Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients to make homemade jerky in air fryer.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Lean Beef (Such as Top Round or Sirloin): Choose a lean cut of beef like top round or sirloin to minimize fat, which can cause the jerky to spoil faster. Trim any excess fat off the meat before slicing.
• Soy Sauce: Serves as the salty base of the marinade, adding deep umami flavors and a rich color to the jerky.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Provides a sweet and savory flavor base.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of caramel-like sweetness to the beef jerky as it cooks in the air fryer.
• Seasonings: Black Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Onion Powder

How To Make Beef Jerky In Air Fryer

Here are the step-by-step directions, to make beef jerky in the air fryer.

Step 1: Slice the meat

Start by slicing the steak into long, thin strips approximately 1/8 of an inch thick, slicing against the grain.

Step 2: Prepare the marinade

In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and seasonings. Mix well.

Step 3: Marinade beef

Add your sliced meat to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least an hour for best flavor.

Step 4: How Long To Cook Beef Jerky In The Air Fryer

Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil and place your beef into the basket, spreading the pieces out so they do not touch. Set the air fryer temperature to 180 degrees F for 2-3 hours. The chewier you want it, the more time it will need to air fry.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Jerky

• Air Fryer Cornbread
• Air Fryer Brats
• Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
• Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken

Pro Tips For Air-Fried Beef Jerky

• Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Use lean cuts of beef such as top round, sirloin, or flank steak. These cuts have less fat, which is ideal since fat does not dry out and can cause the jerky to spoil faster.
• Slice the Meat Properly: For easier slicing and more consistent pieces, partially freeze the beef for about 1-2 hours. Slice the meat against the grain for a tender chew, or with the grain for a more traditional jerky texture that’s chewier.
• Marinate the beef in Teriyaki sauce: Marinate the beef for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat and enhance the jerky’s taste.
• Use Paper Towels: Before placing the beef in the air fryer, pat it dry with paper towels. Removing excess marinade helps achieve a better texture and ensures even drying.
• Set the Right Temperature: Cook the jerky at a low temperature, around 160-180°F, if your air fryer has temperature control. This slow cooking process helps dry out the meat without cooking it too quickly.
• Ensure Even Airflow: Arrange the meat strips in a single layer with space between them for optimal air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to unevenly dried jerky.
• Regularly Check and Rotate: Regularly check and flip the jerky strips every 30 minutes to ensure they dry evenly. Depending on the thickness of the slices, total drying time can vary from 2 to 4 hours.
• Test for Doneness: The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break completely. It should feel firm and be dry to the touch without any sogginess.
• Cool Before Storing: Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming, which could lead to spoilage.
• Store Properly: Store the jerky in airtight containers or freezer bags. To extend its shelf life, keep it in the refrigerator where it can last for several weeks.

Air Fried Beef Jerky Faq’s

What is the best cut of beef for making jerky? The best cuts for beef jerky are lean ones with minimal fat, such as top round, bottom round, sirloin tip, or flank steak. Fat does not dry well and can cause the jerky to spoil faster.

How long should I marinate the beef for jerky? For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 4 hours, though overnight marinating is ideal. This gives the meat ample time to absorb the flavors from the marinade.

Can I use pre-made marinades for beef jerky? Yes, pre-made marinades like teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, or Worcestershire-based sauces can be used for convenience and flavor variety. Just be sure to check for added sugars and preservatives if you prefer a more natural jerky.

What air fryer temperature should I set my air fryer to for making beef jerky? Set your air fryer to a low temperature, ideally between 160 degrees F and 180 degrees F. This allows the meat to dry slowly, which is crucial for creating proper jerky texture.

How thin should I slice the beef for jerky? Slice the beef about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices will dry faster and more evenly in the air fryer.

How can I tell when the beef jerky is done? Beef jerky is done when it is firm and bends without breaking. It should not be spongy; if it is, it needs more drying time.

How do I store air-fried beef jerky? Store the beef jerky in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Keep it in a cool, dry place for short-term storage or refrigerate for longer storage, extending its shelf life for up to a few weeks.

Can I make beef jerky without any added sugar? Yes, you can make beef jerky without added sugar by using marinades that do not contain sugars and focusing on savory spices and herbs for flavor.

Is beef jerky a healthy snack? Beef jerky can be a healthy snack option as it is high in protein and low in fat, especially when made with lean cuts and controlled amounts of sodium and sugar in the marinade.

Can I make jerky from other types of meat in the air fryer? Yes, you can make jerky from other meats like turkey, chicken, deer, or venison using the same air frying method, just ensure to adjust marinating and cooking times accordingly.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER MAPLE POPCORN
• AIR FRYER CARAMEL POPCORN

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