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Air Fryer Beef Jerky

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a simple and delicious way to make homemade jerky without a dehydrator. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. Perfect for snacking, road trips, or a protein boost during the day.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef (top round, flank, or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)


Instructions

  1. Slice beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. For easier slicing, freeze the meat for 30 minutes first.

  2. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

  3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure all pieces are coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

  4. Remove beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

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

  6. Arrange beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches.

  7. Air fry for 2–3 hours, flipping every 30 minutes, until the jerky is dry but still slightly flexible.

  8. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.


Notes

  • Store jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

  • Use lean cuts of meat to prevent spoilage. Trim off any visible fat before marinating.

  • The drying time can vary based on thickness of slices and air fryer model. Check after 2 hours.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg