A high-quality photo of some freshly made beef jerky with the text overlay "How to Make Beef Jerky"

HOW TO MAKE BEEF JERKY AT HOME: A DELICIOUS DIY ADVENTURE

Author: Brad Iott

If you’re a beef jerky enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating your own homemade batch. Not only does it save you money, but it also allows you to customize flavors to suit your taste buds perfectly.

With this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll learn how to make mouthwatering beef jerky in the comfort of your kitchen.

Ready for a delicious DIY adventure? Let’s dive in!

GATHER YOUR INGREDIENTS FOR PERFECT BEEF JERKY

The first step to crafting delectable beef jerky is gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Quality Beef

The quality of your jerky depends heavily on the cut you select. Click on the beef icon above to take a look at our 5 Premium Beef Cuts blog to find the best options for your next batch.

Marinade

Prepare a flavorful blend. Popular options include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of sweetness like honey or brown sugar.

Spices

Add a personal touch with spices such as black pepper, cayenne, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes.

Liquid Smoke (optional)

For that smoky flavor without a smoker, a few drops of liquid smoke work wonders.

person slicing raw beef steak on wooden cutting board

HOW TO SLICE BEEF FOR HOMEMADE JERKY

Proper slicing is key to achieving the perfect tender jerky texture. Follow these tips to get the most out of your jerky meat:

Partially Freeze the Beef: Place your lean cut in the freezer for about an hour. This firms up the meat, making it easier to trim any exterior fat and slice cleanly.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures a tender, easy-to-chew texture.
Uniform Thickness: For evenly dried sliced meat, aim for slices around 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Consistent size ensures the beef dries at the same rate, reducing the risk of over- or under-drying.

Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife or a meat slicer for precise cuts.

marinated beef in glass bowl on marble surface

MARINATING YOUR BEEF JERKY

The secret to great jerky starts with a flavorful, well-balanced marinade. Whether you're experimenting with your first homemade beef jerky recipe or refining your go-to method, proper marination brings out the best in your meat.

Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine your favorite marinade ingredients—such as low-sodium soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and spices. Mix until well blended for a bold, savory base.
Coat the Beef: For best results, use lean, thinly sliced cuts to make your own beef jerky. Place the meat in a resealable bag or an airtight container. Pour the marinade over the beef strips, ensuring each piece is fully coated to help keep the jerky moist through the drying process.
Marinate Overnight: Seal the bag and refrigerate for 6–8 hours or overnight. This infusion time lets the flavors penetrate deeply.

Pro Tip: Massage the marinade into the beef before refrigerating for even better absorption.

A photo of multiple pieces of beef jerky that are all hanging to dry

BEST DRYING METHODS FOR HOMEMADE BEEF JERKY

Once you've marinated your strips of beef using one of your favorite beef jerky recipes (with or without curing salt), it’s time to dry. The drying method you choose will significantly affect the flavor and texture of your finished jerky. Here are three reliable ways to get it just right:

Using a Dehydrator: Lay out the marinated thin strips on the food dehydrator trays. Set the temperature to 160°F (70°C) and dry for 4–6 hours, depending on thickness and desired texture.
Oven Drying: Place beef on wire racks over baking sheets. Set the oven to its lowest temperature (around 170°F or 75°C). Leave the oven door slightly open for airflow and dry for 3-4 hours.
Smoker Method: For authentic smoky flavor, follow your smoker’s instructions. Smoke the beef at 160°F (70°C) for 2-3 hours.

Pro Tip: Rotate trays or reposition beef slices halfway through drying for even results.

A super close-up photo of someone breaking open a piece of beef jerky to test the doneness of the jerky

How to Test for Doneness

When you make jerky at home, it’s crucial to ensure your dried beef is properly finished and safe to store. Fully drying the jerky helps prevent spoilage and extends shelf life. Here’s how to know you’ve achieved good jerky:

Check Flexibility: Bend a piece of jerky; it should slightly crack but not break.
Look for Dryness: The surface should appear dry with no visible moisture.
Cool Completely: Let the jerky cool before storing it in an airtight container or resealable bag.

Pro Tip: Store jerky in the refrigerator or freezer for extended freshness.

A photo of a freshly created batch of beef jerky that is ready to share and eat

TASTE AND SHARE YOUR DIY BEEF JERKY CREATION

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own jerky using one of your favorite beef jerky recipes. The best part? Tasting the results and sharing your homemade creation with friends and family—or keeping it all to yourself as a go-to, protein-packed snack.

Whether you made it with flank steak, eye of round roast beef, or another lean cut, the satisfaction of creating and perfecting your own jerky is unmatched.

Pro Tip: Get creative with future batches by trying new marinades, spice blends, and seasonings until you land on your signature jerky flavor.

FINAL THOUGHTS: DIY BEEF JERKY MADE EASY

Making beef jerky is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can craft delicious jerky tailored to your tastes. Embrace the DIY spirit and savor the satisfaction of making your own jerky. Ready to elevate your snacking game?

Before you go, don’t miss out on exploring the JerkyGent Online Beef Jerky Shop. With 400+ premium flavors, you’ll find an irresistible variety of options to satisfy every craving. Dive into the world of jerky perfection today!

Explore All Premium Handcrafted Beef Jerky

Browse Our Wide Selection to Get Some Inspiration for Your Next Jerky Recipe

Need some ideas? Explore JerkyGent’s extensive selection of 400+ jerky flavors, featuring the finest small-batch creations from across the USA. Get inspired and craft your next delicious jerky recipe!