This is the best air fryer beef jerky recipe. Ready to make tender, flavorful jerky in your Ninja Foodi or electric air fryer? Try this simple method for your first batch. It pairs well with other easy beef recipes like air fryer flank steak or top sirloin.
Air fryer beef jerky is delicious and packed with protein. You can keep it simple with light seasonings or use a favorite sauce like teriyaki for extra flavor. Let us know which version you prefer!
If you enjoy this keto-friendly snack, making it at home can save a lot compared to store-bought jerky. You can also make it spicy if you like. You don’t need a dehydrator—this recipe demonstrates the low-and-slow temperature and time that produce tender jerky without turning it into tough, brittle pieces.
The method keeps the center tender and full of flavor while drying the strips properly. No dehydrator function is required on most air fryers; just follow the temperature and time guidelines below for best results.
Tips: My favorite models for this are the Cosori or the Ninja Foodi with its attached lid. For crispier results, preheat your air fryer before adding food so the jerky starts drying immediately. A printable air fryer cooking time chart is handy to keep on the fridge for reference.
Ninja Foodi Beef Jerky
Many newer Ninja Foodi models include both air fry and dehydrator functions. You can use either, though if you air fry you’ll want to keep the attached lid closed during cooking. Try both methods to see which texture you prefer.
Air Fryer Beef Jerky vs Dehydrator
We own a dehydrator and it works well for fruits and larger batches of jerky, but the air fryer produces a different, often preferred texture. If you have limited counter space, the air fryer is more compact and versatile. The air fryer method dries meat efficiently while keeping the center tender.
What is the best cut of meat for beef jerky?
Top round and bottom round roast are lean, flavorful, and ideal for homemade jerky. Sirloin tip is lean as well but can be less tender and more expensive. Flank steak works but must be sliced against the grain to avoid toughness.
Beef Jerky Marinade
Below is a simple, mild marinade. You can substitute a spicy Asian-style marinade or a teriyaki-based sauce — teriyaki is a favorite for many because it delivers great flavor and gets lots of compliments. The marinade you choose makes the biggest difference in the final taste.
How long does it take to dehydrate jerky in an air fryer?
Expect about 2 hours to dehydrate jerky in an air fryer. Time varies with strip thickness and size, but this is a reliable starting point for thin strips. Monitor the texture and adjust as needed for drier or chewier jerky.
How thick should I slice meat for jerky?
Consistent thickness matters. Aim for about 1/4 inch for even drying. If hand-slicing is difficult, ask your butcher to slice the meat for you. The strips should resemble the size of green bean fries — thin and uniform. Serve warm or cool; cooling makes the jerky chewier.
Air Fryer Beef Jerky Recipe
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Print Recipe
Equipment
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1 air fryer
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1 bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, round steak, sliced into strips
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/8 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Slice round steak into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick and set aside.
- In a large bowl whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, teriyaki, onion powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and pepper. Add the steak strips, submerge, and cover.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.
- Arrange strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Air fry at 180°F (about 82°C) for approximately 2 hours, checking for desired dryness.
- Remove, allow to cool, and enjoy.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Additional Info
How do You Save Homemade Beef Jerky?
Store jerky in airtight bags or vacuum-sealed packs to remove air. Keep it in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Once opened, remove air before resealing. Properly stored, homemade jerky can last up to two months. For longer storage, freeze in airtight bags.
If you’re excited about your air fryer, try other recipes too — healthy air fryer options and a variety of air fryer dinner recipes make great next steps.
- Looking for a healthy air fryer recipe?
- Try other air fryer dinner recipes and share your favorites in the comments.
Yes. An air fryer works well for drying marinated beef into jerky. You can simply season with salt and pepper or use teriyaki. Models like Cosori, AirWave, or Ninja Foodi without a dehydrator function produce excellent results.
Is it cheaper to make your own beef jerky?
Yes, especially if you buy meat in bulk. If you buy single cuts at full retail price, savings are smaller, but homemade jerky lets you control flavor and ingredients. This recipe uses one pound of meat; scale up if you want larger batches for storage.
How much jerky will 5 lbs of meat make?
Yield depends on moisture loss. Typical jerky loses about half its starting weight; very dry jerky can be one-third of the original weight. Using roughly 2 pounds of raw beef will generally yield about 1 pound of finished jerky.
