Air Fryer Beef Jerky 🥩⚡
Skip the dehydrator! This easy, flavorful jerky cooks in the air fryer with minimal effort and maximum taste. Perfect for protein-packed snacks, hiking, or game day.
📝 Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef (sirloin, flank steak, or top round, sliced ¼-inch thick against the grain)
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½ cup Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for GF)
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1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp chili flakes (optional, or 1 tsp smoked paprika for smokiness)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Slice & Marinate
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Freeze beef for 30 mins to make slicing easier. Cut into ¼-inch strips (against the grain for tender jerky).
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Whisk marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add beef, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate 4+ hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Prep Air Fryer
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Pat beef strips dry with paper towels (to avoid steaming).
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Line air fryer basket with parchment paper (cut holes for airflow) or use a jerky rack.
3. Air Fry
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Arrange beef in a single layer (no overlapping).
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Cook at 180°F (82°C) for 3–4 hours, flipping halfway. (Time varies by thickness!)
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Check at 2.5 hours—jerky should be dry but slightly bendy (it firms as it cools).
4. Cool & Store
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Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container (up to 2 weeks) or freezer (1 month).
💡 Pro Tips
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Leaner cuts = better jerky (trim visible fat to prevent spoilage).
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No air fryer? Use oven at 175°F (80°C) on a wire rack for 4–6 hours.
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Spice it up: Add 1 tsp liquid smoke or extra chili flakes.
🍖 Why Air Fryer?
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Faster than dehydrators!
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Crisp edges with chewy centers.
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No fancy equipment needed.
Perfect for meal prep or road trips! 🚗🌲
Want teriyaki jerky? Swap Worcestershire for ½ cup teriyaki sauce + 1 tbsp ginger. 😋
