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Air Fryer Beef Jerky

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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: About 6 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Air Fryer Beef Jerky is savory, chewy, and loaded with flavor — made with a simple marinade and your air fryer. It’s a faster alternative to traditional methods, giving you tender, homemade jerky in just a few hours. Perfect for snacking, hiking, or meal prep!


Ingredients

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

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)

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


Instructions

  1. Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Trim off any excess fat.

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

  3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover or seal and refrigerate 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. Lay the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on racks, leaving space between pieces.

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

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


Notes

  • For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 30 minutes before cutting.

  • Store jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

  • You can adjust marinade ingredients to your taste — make it sweeter, spicier, or more savory.