Homemade Beef Jerky

How to Make Homemade Beef Jerky in a Food Dehydrator

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own beef jerky, you’re in the right place!

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade beef jerky—it’s fresher, more flavorful, and way healthier than store-bought versions packed with preservatives.

Plus, when you make beef jerky in a dehydrator, the process is incredibly simple!

Let’s dive into the best beef jerky recipe, including the perfect beef jerky marinade and step-by-step instructions for using your food dehydrator.

Why Make Your Own Beef Jerky?

No preservatives or additives – Store-bought jerky is often loaded with sodium, sugar, and artificial ingredients.
Control the flavors – Whether you like it sweet, spicy, smoky, or savory, you can customize your beef jerky marinade.
Save money – Buying jerky at the store can get pricey, but making it yourself costs a fraction of the price.
Great for meal prep – Homemade beef jerky is the perfect high-protein snack for road trips, hikes, or busy days.

Choosing the Best Meat for Beef Jerky

For the best homemade beef jerky, choose lean cuts of meat with minimal fat, since fat can cause the jerky to spoil faster. Some great options include:

Top round (most common choice for jerky)
Eye of round (lean and budget-friendly)
Bottom round (slightly tougher but still great for jerky)
Sirloin tip (a little pricier but very tender)
Flank steak (delicious but more expensive)

Before slicing, place your beef in the freezer for about 1 hour. This firms up the meat, making it easier to slice evenly. Cut against the grain for tender jerky or with the grain for a chewier texture.

The Best Beef Jerky Marinade Recipe

Marinating your meat is what gives beef jerky its signature flavor. Here’s a simple and delicious beef jerky marinade:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp liquid smoke (for that smoky flavor)
1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions:

Whisk all marinade ingredients together in a large bowl.
Add the sliced beef and mix well to coat.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is best for deeper flavor!).

How to Make Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Once your beef has soaked up all that delicious marinade, it’s time to dehydrate it!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Drain and pat dry – Remove beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. This helps speed up drying time and prevents excess moisture.
Arrange in the dehydrator – Lay the strips in a single layer on your dehydrator trays, making sure they don’t overlap.
Set the temperature – Most dehydrators have a jerky setting (around 160°F). If yours doesn’t, set it to 160°F manually.
Dry for 4-6 hours – Depending on the thickness of your slices and the humidity, your jerky should be ready in 4-6 hours. Check periodically.
Test for doneness – Jerky should be dry but still slightly pliable. It shouldn’t snap in half but should bend without breaking.
Cool and store – Let the jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature, a month in the fridge, or even longer in the freezer.

Tips for the Best Homemade Beef Jerky

Don’t skip the marinade – It adds flavor and helps preserve the jerky longer.
Use a sharp knife – Even slices ensure even drying.
Rotate trays – If your dehydrator doesn’t have automatic airflow, rotate the trays halfway through drying.
Store it properly – Vacuum-sealed bags help jerky last longer.

FAQ: Making Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Can I make beef jerky without a dehydrator?
Yes! You can use an oven set at the lowest temperature (around 170°F) with the door slightly open. It takes about 4-6 hours.

How long does homemade beef jerky last?
If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it lasts about 2 weeks. In the fridge, it stays fresh for a month, and in the freezer, it lasts several months.

Can I use ground beef for beef jerky?
Yes, but you’ll need a jerky gun to form strips. Be sure to use lean ground beef (90% or higher).

What if my jerky turns out too tough?
Try slicing against the grain for a more tender bite. Also, marinating longer can help.

Making homemade beef jerky in a food dehydrator is a simple and rewarding process. With the right beef jerky recipe and a flavorful marinade, you’ll have a protein-packed snack that’s healthier and tastier than store-bought versions. Whether you’re making jerky for meal prep, road trips, or just a tasty treat, this guide has you covered!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!