Name: How to Make the Best Beef Jerky in Your Air Fryer
Ingredients: 1 pound lean beef (such as top round, flank steak, or sirloin), thinly sliced; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; Optional: ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

Description

This easy air fryer beef jerky recipe delivers chewy, flavorful, and protein-rich snacks in a fraction of the time it takes with a dehydrator. Made from lean beef slices marinated in soy sauce, Worcestershire, spices, and brown sugar, it’s air-dried to perfection in just 2 to 3 hours. Ideal for snacking, hiking, meal prep, or low-carb diets, this homemade jerky is customizable, preservative-free, and packed with bold flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound lean beef (such as top round, flank steak, or sirloin), thinly sliced
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

Instructions

Place the beef slices in the freezer for 30–45 minutes to make them easier to slice thinly, if not already pre-sliced.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the beef slices to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Arrange the beef slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket or on racks, making sure pieces don’t overlap.
Set the air fryer to 180°F (82°C) or the lowest possible temperature setting.
Air fry for 2 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry and chewy but not brittle.
Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

Freeze beef slightly for easier slicing.
Trim all visible fat to increase shelf life.
Pat slices dry before air frying to ensure proper dehydration.
Adjust sweetness, spice, or smokiness in the marinade to taste.
Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for best results.
Refrigerate or vacuum seal for extended freshness.
Use food-safe gloves when handling raw meat and hot jerky.