If you're looking for a simple, reliable, and incredibly flavorful way to make homemade beef jerky, this Dehydrator Beef Jerky Recipe is the perfect place to start. Using a food dehydrator not only creates that classic chewy texture but also allows you full control over ingredients, flavor intensity, and meat quality. This recipe is ideal for beginners and seasoned jerky makers alike, with a savory marinade and straightforward steps that guarantee a batch of delicious, protein-packed snacks every time. Whether you’re prepping for a camping trip, stocking healthy snacks, or just experimenting with your dehydrator, this jerky delivers consistent results and irresistible flavor.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 mins
Marinating Time: 8–24 hrs
Cook Time: 4–8 hrs
Total Time: 12–32 hrs
Servings: 8
Yield: About 1 pound finished jerky
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean beef (top round, eye of round, flank steak, or brisket)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon curing salt (optional but recommended for longer shelf life)
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional for a smoky flavor)
Tip: Choose the leanest cut possible—fat does not dehydrate well and can cause jerky to spoil faster.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Place the beef in the freezer for 30 to 60 minutes until firm but not frozen solid. This helps you slice it thin and evenly. Using a sharp knife, trim away all visible fat and slice the beef against the grain into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick strips. Thinner strips will dry faster and become crispier; thicker strips will remain chewier.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, curing salt (if using), and liquid smoke. Adjust seasoning to taste—more black pepper for bite, more sugar for sweetness, or more soy for saltiness.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, but 12–24 hours provides deeper flavor penetration. Stir once or twice during marinating to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 4: Preheat for Safety (Recommended)
For maximum food safety, briefly heat the marinated beef in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This step eliminates potential bacteria and aligns with USDA guidelines for home-made jerky.
Step 5: Arrange in the Dehydrator
Lay the beef strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays, leaving space between pieces for airflow. Pat the strips dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade, which helps them dry more evenly.
Step 6: Dehydrate the Jerky
Set your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C). Dry the beef for 4–8 hours, checking periodically. Jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not snap. If it feels soft, give it additional drying time until it reaches the desired texture.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing. Place in airtight containers, mason jars, or vacuum-sealed bags.
- Room temperature: Up to 1–2 weeks
- Refrigerator: 2–3 weeks
- Freezer: 3–6 months
Storage Tip: If you skipped curing salt, always store jerky in the refrigerator or freezer for maximum safety.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Sugar: 2g
Pro Tip:
If you’re serious about making consistently delicious homemade beef jerky, investing in a quality food dehydrator can make all the difference. Modern dehydrators offer precise temperature controls, better airflow, and larger drying capacity—giving you perfectly chewy, evenly dried jerky every time. Whether you're upgrading from an older model or purchasing your first dehydrator, choosing the right one will elevate not only this recipe but every dehydrating project you try. Ready to find the perfect model? Simply click the button below to explore top-rated Food Dehydrators on Amazon and pick the one that fits your kitchen and your jerky goals.
Conclusion
Homemade Dehydrator Beef Jerky is one of the most satisfying snacks you can make in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a savory, high-protein treat that’s fresher, cleaner, and more flavorful than anything you can buy in a store. This recipe gives you a reliable base that you can customize endlessly—add spice, sweetness, smoke, or bold pepper as you experiment with future batches. Whether you’re fueling outdoor adventures, prepping healthy snacks, or simply exploring dehydrator recipes, this beef jerky is a delicious way to elevate your homemade snacking game.
