Homemade Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a beloved snack, known for its chewy texture and intense flavor. While store-bought options are convenient, making your own beef jerky at home has several advantages. You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option without preservatives. Plus, using an air fryer speeds up the process significantly compared to traditional drying methods. This recipe combines the savory richness of soy and Worcestershire sauce with a hint of sweetness from honey, making it the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein snack for hiking or a satisfying bite for movie night, this air fryer beef jerky is your go-to recipe.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 6–12 hours (recommended overnight)
• Cooking Time: 2–3 hours (depending on thickness and air fryer settings)
• Total Time: Approx. 8–15 hours

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin steak or round steak works best)
• 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, or adjust to taste for a spicier kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, honey, onion powder, and chili flakes. Whisk the ingredients together until the honey is fully dissolved. This flavorful marinade will soak into the beef, infusing it with a savory, slightly sweet, and spicy taste.

Step 2: Slice the Beef

Using a sharp knife, slice the beef into thin strips or squares, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices dry more evenly and quickly. Ensure all pieces are of uniform size to avoid uneven cooking. If your beef isn’t pre-sliced, consider partially freezing it for 20–30 minutes before slicing; this makes it easier to cut thinly.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

Place the sliced beef into the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the beef and marinade to a zip-top bag. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for 6–12 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Before starting, preheat your air fryer to 160°F (or the lowest setting on your air fryer). This temperature is ideal for drying meat slowly and evenly.

Step 5: Arrange the Beef in the Air Fryer

Remove the marinated beef strips from the fridge and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket or trays. Ensure the pieces don’t overlap; this allows air to circulate evenly for proper drying.

Step 6: Cook the Jerky

Set the air fryer to 160°F and cook for 2–3 hours. Check the beef every 30 minutes, flipping or rotating the pieces for even drying. The jerky is ready when it feels dry to the touch, bends slightly without breaking, and has a deep, rich color.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once done, remove the jerky from the air fryer and let it cool completely. This step allows any residual moisture to evaporate. Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Making beef jerky in an air fryer is not only convenient but also incredibly rewarding. With this homemade recipe, you can enjoy a healthy, protein-packed snack tailored to your taste preferences. It’s perfect for busy days, road trips, or even as a thoughtful gift for fellow food lovers. By controlling the marinade and ingredients, you’ve created a snack free from artificial additives. Next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, try this homemade beef jerky recipe—you won’t be disappointed!