Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a quick and convenient way to make delicious, protein-packed snacks at home—no dehydrator required. This method transforms thin strips of beef into tender, chewy jerky with rich savory flavor, perfect for road trips, hiking, meal prep, or just guilt-free snacking. With customizable marinades and fast cook times, you’ll never want store-bought again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No dehydrator needed—just your air fryer
Faster than traditional jerky methods
High-protein, low-carb snack option
Customizable with your favorite flavors and spices
Budget-friendly and free of preservatives

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lean beef (such as top round, flank steak, or sirloin), thinly sliced
Soy sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Brown sugar
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

directions

Trim any visible fat from the beef and slice into thin, even strips (about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick). For easier slicing, partially freeze the meat for 30–60 minutes first.
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and any optional spices.
Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C), or the lowest setting possible.
Remove beef from marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Arrange the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket or rack, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Air fry for 90 to 120 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry but still slightly pliable.
Let cool completely before storing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings (depending on how much the meat shrinks).
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinade Time: 4+ hours
Cook Time: 1.5–2 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours (including marinade)

Variations

Use teriyaki sauce or Korean BBQ marinade for different flavor profiles
Add liquid smoke for a deeper smoky flavor without a smoker
Swap beef for turkey, venison, or even tofu for variety
Try maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener
Add sriracha or chipotle powder for a spicy kick

storage/reheating

Store beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
No need to reheat—enjoy jerky at room temperature. If it hardens, let it sit out for 10 minutes or warm briefly in your hands.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for jerky?

Top round, bottom round, sirloin, or flank steak are ideal due to their leanness and texture.

How thin should I slice the meat?

About ⅛ to ¼ inch thick. Consistent thickness ensures even drying.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating helps achieve even dehydration from the start.

Can I skip marinating overnight?

You can marinate for as little as 4 hours, but longer marinating enhances flavor.

Why do I need to pat the beef dry?

Removing excess marinade helps the jerky dry faster and prevents steaming.

How do I know when the jerky is done?

It should be dry and firm but still slightly pliable—not brittle or moist.

Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, partially frozen beef is actually easier to slice thinly.

Is air fryer jerky healthier than store-bought?

Yes, it’s free from preservatives, added sugars, and excessive sodium.

Can I make jerky in a basket-style air fryer?

Yes, but be sure to arrange the strips flat and in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed.

Does beef jerky need to be refrigerated?

If it’s eaten within a week, room temperature is fine. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a game-changer for snack lovers—delicious, customizable, and ready in a fraction of the time it takes to dehydrate. Whether you’re on the go or just want a savory protein boost, this homemade jerky delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite. Say goodbye to store-bought and hello to your new favorite homemade snack.

Air Fryer Beef Jerky