Beef jerky is a fantastic high-protein snack that’s perfect for road trips, hiking, or just enjoying at home. Making it in an air fryer speeds up the process while still delivering that classic chewy texture and deep, savory flavor. This easy homemade beef jerky recipe is packed with flavor and requires just a few ingredients!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin steak, round steak)
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, or add more for spicy jerky)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, honey, onion powder, and chili flakes. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are blended evenly.
Step 2: Slice the Beef
If your beef isn’t pre-sliced, use a sharp knife to cut it into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 30–45 minutes beforehand.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Place the beef strips in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (or the lowest setting available). Lightly grease the air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Arrange and Cook
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid. Arrange the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
Cook at 180°F for 2 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. The jerky is done when it is firm, slightly pliable, and no longer moist.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for about a week, or longer if refrigerated.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Beef Jerky:
- Use lean cuts of beef to prevent excessive fat, which can spoil the jerky faster.
- Adjust the chili flakes for your preferred level of spiciness.
- Store the jerky in a vacuum-sealed bag for longer shelf life.
Enjoy your homemade air fryer beef jerky as a healthy snack on the go!
**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.
