Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Introduction

If you love flavorful snacks that are easy to make, then you’ll enjoy Air Fryer Beef Jerky! This homemade treat is perfect for munching on during movie nights or taking on your next adventure. Plus, it’s healthier than store-bought options!

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own beef jerky at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy a protein-packed snack without all the preservatives and additives. Plus, it’s incredibly fun to make, especially with family or friends. The air fryer makes the process quick and simple!

How to Make Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Ingredients:

1 pound of beef sirloin tip steak, thinly sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes

Directions:

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit for at least 3 hours, or overnight in the fridge.
Preheat the air fryer to 160°F (70°C).
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
Place the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for about 4–5 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry and chewy.
Allow to cool before storing in an airtight container.

How to Serve Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Serve your delicious beef jerky as a tasty snack on its own. It’s also great with dips or as part of a charcuterie board. Share it with friends at a gathering or enjoy it at home while watching your favorite show!

How to Store Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Keep your beef jerky in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature but storing it in the fridge will extend its shelf life even longer. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Slice the beef as thinly as possible for a better texture.
Don’t skip the marinating step; it really enhances the flavor!
If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the marinade.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! You could add teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor or try spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! You can use other cuts like flank steak or round steak, just make sure they are lean with less fat.

2. How do I know when the jerky is done?
The jerky should be dry to the touch and slightly bend without breaking. It should have a chewy texture when you bite into it.

3. Can I make this in an oven instead?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use your oven. Set it to the lowest temperature and follow the same cooking directions, keeping a close eye on it.