How to Make Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Jerky in jar with red pepper flakes on wood

How to Make Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Making jerky in a dehydrator is the easiest and best way to make homemade jerky. They are relatively inexpensive and here I will show you how easy it is to make great tasting beef jerky!

Course Beef Jerky, Snack

Cuisine American

Type Beef Jerky

Flavor Savory, Spicy

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 6

Total Time 7

Servings

Calories 151kcal

Author Will

Equipment

Ingredients

Lean Beef

1 lb eye of round

Marinade

¼ cup worcestershire sauce
¼ cup soy sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoon brown sugar
2 teaspoon liquid smoke
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Optional

¼ teaspoon Curing Salt Prague Powder #1

Instructions

Pick a lean cut of beef. Trim the fat cap and other visible fat. After trimmed, place the meat in the freezer for 1-2 hours or until partially frozen. This will allow for more uniform slices when cutting your beef.
In a plastic container that has a tight fitting lid or ziplock bag, add the marinade ingredients and mix well.
Remove the meat from the freezer and slice ¼" strips against the grain for an easy chew. Cut with the grain for a more chewy jerky.
Add the sliced meat to the marinade and shake well until all slices are covered evenly. Place in the fridge and allow to marinate for 6-24 hours. Shake the container/bag two or three times while marinating.
After marinating, dry slices with paper towels to remove any excess marinade.
Place strips on your dehydrator drying racks with plenty of spaces in between for easy air flow.
Dry for 3 hours at 165 degrees allowing the internal temperature to reach 160 degrees and then turn down to 145F. Check the meat after 4 hours and keep drying until the jerky bends and cracks, but does not break in half.
Allow jerky to cool for several hours before storing.

Notes

Trim all fat from the meat before marinating for longer lasting jerky once it's finished drying
Use curing salt or celery juice powder to extend the life of the jerky
Marinate closer to 24 hours for the most intense flavor

Nutrition