Craving a savory and satisfying snack? Look no further than homemade air fryer beef jerky! Flavor-packed and so easy to make, it’s a snack time game-changer.
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Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure with air fryer beef jerky! Once you taste the difference, you might never go back to the store-bought version again.
This homemade jerky starts with combining tender, thinly sliced sirloin steak with Teriyaki marinade to pack in the flavor. After that, simply let the air fryer work its magic. It couldn’t be easier!
The result is a hearty, savory snack that will keep you coming back for more. And thanks to the air fryer, you don’t even need a dehydrator!
How to Make Beef Jerky in the Air Fryer
A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.
STEP ONE: Cut the beef slices into strips or squares, then place them in a plastic zipper bag with the Teriyaki sauce.
STEP TWO: Massage the sauce around the beef to ensure it’s evenly coated, then place the bag in the refrigerator. Marinate the beef for 24-48 hours.
STEP THREE: When ready to cook, remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
STEP FOUR: Place the beef pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
STEP FIVE: Air fry at 200 degrees F for 2 hours, flipping halfway.
STEP SIX: Check to see if the beef is completely dehydrated and has reached an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. If not, continue to air fry at 15 minute intervals.
STEP SEVEN: Allow the jerky to cool, then store it in an airtight container.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Jerky
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Dry Rub
- Air Fryer Cornbread
- Air Fryer Brats
- Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
- BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs
How Long to Cook Beef Jerky in the Air Fryer
Making jerky at home does take a little planning in advance. That being said, the actual hands-on prep only takes minutes. That’s the beauty of this easy recipe!
First, before you actually cook the jerky, you want to give the beef plenty of time to marinate. I like using Teriyaki for a super simple beef jerky marinade that always packs in a punch of flavor. You want to let the beef marinate for at least 24 hours, although I recommend giving it 48 hours.
Next, we’re going to cook the jerky low and slow in the air fryer. By cooking the beef at 200 degrees F for 2 hours, we draw out the moisture, giving us that amazing jerky texture.
After 2 hours, use an Instant Read Thermometer to see if the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F. If not, keep cooking in 15 minute intervals until the beef reaches 160 degrees F.
Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Beef Jerky
- Pound the steak very thin. You want it to be about ¼ of an inch thick to help it dehydrate.
- Marinate the beef in Teriyaki sauce for at least 24 hours but preferably the full 48 hours to really maximize the flavor.
- Want to make it spicy? Add a little cayenne pepper to your marinade!
- Thoroughly pat the beef slices dry before air frying to remove excess moisture and promote better dehydration.
- Arrange the beef pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even airflow and consistent cooking.
- Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and texture.
More Delicious Air Fryer Marinated Recipes
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Honey Soy Marinade
- Air Fryer Pork Roast
- Air Fryer Tofu
- Air Fryer Tri Tip
- Short Ribs in the Air Fryer
More Air Fryer Beef Recipes
- Air Fryer Filet Mignon
- Air Fryer Hamburgers
- Air Fryer Sirloin Steak
- Air Fryer Steak Bites
- Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Air Fryer Flank Steak
- Air Fryer Skirt Steak
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Air Fryer Beef Jerky
Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced sirloin steak ¼-in thick
- 1 cup Teriyaki sauce
Instructions
- Cut the beef slices into strips or squares, then place them in a plastic zipper bag with the Teriyaki sauce. Massage the sauce around the beef to ensure it’s evenly coated, then place the bag in the refrigerator and marinate the beef for 24-48 hours.
- When ready to cook, remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the beef pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 200 degrees F for 2 hours, flipping it halfway, checking to see if it’s completely dehydrated and at 160 degrees F. If not, continue to air fry at 15 minute intervals until it is.
- Allow the jerky to cool, then store it in an airtight container.
This is definitely going on my “to-try” list! Quick question, though—can you give an approximate size for cutting the beef? I can sorta kinda see in the pics, but a little more guidance would be helpful. TIA!
Great question! As far as size goes, with length I’d say anywhere for 2-3 inches long and for width, I’d go for no more than about 1 inch wide. Most importantly, I suggest that you make sure the beef is pounded out to only be 1/4 inch thick to properly dehydrate it. I hope that answers your question, enjoy your beef jerky.