Beef Jerky in the Air Fryer

ByHannah Peterson

Beef Jerky in the Air Fryer (Better Than Store-Bought!)

If you’ve ever looked at the price tag on store-bought beef jerky and thought there has to be a better way—this recipe is it. This Air Fryer Beef Jerky is chewy, flavorful, slightly sweet, a little spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients, no dehydrator required, and turns out better than anything you’ll buy at the store.

Once you try homemade beef jerky in the air fryer, you’ll never go back.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Beef Jerky

  • Made with real, simple ingredients
  • No dehydrator needed
  • Cheaper than store-bought jerky
  • Customizable sweetness and heat
  • Perfect chewy texture
  • Great for snacks, road trips, and protein-packed bites

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds top round beef, sliced very thin
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar
  • ⅔ cup soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Tip: Ask your butcher to slice the beef thin, or partially freeze it first to make slicing easier at home.

🥣 How to Make Beef Jerky in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Place sliced beef into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Mix well, making sure all the meat is coated.

Cover and refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Pat the Beef Dry (Important!)

Remove beef from the marinade and pat each piece dry with paper towels.
This step is key for proper drying and texture—don’t skip it!

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Lay beef strips single file in the air fryer basket.

  • Do not overlap
  • Leave space between pieces for airflow

Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Air Fry Low & Slow

Set air fryer to 180°F.

Air fry for 90 minutes, checking occasionally.

Jerky is done when:

  • Dry but still flexible
  • Bends without snapping
  • No visible moisture on the surface

Step 5: Cool & Enjoy

Let jerky cool completely—it will firm up as it cools.

Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag.

🔥 Tips for the Best Homemade Jerky

  • Slice against the grain for tender jerky
  • Slice with the grain for chewier jerky
  • Always pat meat dry before air frying
  • Rotate trays if your air fryer has multiple racks
  • Let jerky cool fully before storing

This Air Fryer Beef Jerky proves that homemade really is better. With bold flavor, perfect chew, and no preservatives, it’s a snack you can feel good about making—and eating.

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