Air Fryer Beef Jerky

 

"Homemade beef jerky made easy with your air fryer! This flavorful, chewy snack is perfect for road trips, camping, or just enjoying at home."

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Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, trimmed of fat and sliced thinly (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

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Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Beef

1. Freeze the Beef: Place the beef in the freezer for 30 minutes to make slicing easier.
2. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

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Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

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Step 3: Marinate the Beef

1. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

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Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C) or the lowest temperature setting.

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Step 5: Arrange the Beef

1. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Arrange the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Do not overlap the pieces for even drying.

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Step 6: Air Fry the Beef Jerky

1. Air fry at 180°F (82°C) for 2–3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through.
2. Check for doneness: The jerky should be dry and slightly chewy but not brittle.

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Step 7: Cool and Store

1. Let the jerky cool completely before storing.
2. Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No need for a dehydrator—your air fryer does the job perfectly.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more spice or a touch of sweetness.
• Healthy Snack: A high-protein, low-carb option made without preservatives.

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Pro Tips

1. Cut Uniformly: Ensure even thickness for consistent drying.
2. Low and Slow: The key to perfect jerky is cooking at a low temperature to gradually remove moisture.
3. Test for Doneness: Bend a piece of jerky—it should be pliable but not snap.

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This Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a delicious and easy-to-make snack that rivals any store-bought version. Packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household! 🥩✨