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Air Fryer Beef Jerky

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Homemade beef jerky in the air fryer is a simple and satisfying snack that’s high in protein and full of bold flavor. Marinated in a savory blend of sauces and spices, this jerky delivers a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet notes with a tender yet chewy texture. Making it yourself lets you control the seasoning and avoid unnecessary additives.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, trimmed of fat and sliced thinly (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Beef
Freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Jerky
Arrange the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Set the air fryer to 180°F (82°C) and cook for 2 to 3 hours, flipping the pieces halfway through, until the jerky is dry and firm but still slightly pliable.

Step 6: Cool and Store
Let the beef jerky cool completely. Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Notes

For the most tender jerky, slice the beef against the grain. Drying times can vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your slices, so start checking around the 2-hour mark. Homemade jerky can be customized easily—adjust the cayenne for more heat or add a splash of liquid smoke for extra smokiness.

Find it online: https://richspoon.com/air-fryer-beef-jerky/