Making homemade beef jerky might sound like a big task, but with the help of your air fryer, it becomes an easy and rewarding process. This mini sweet and smoky BBQ beef jerky recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spice, ideal for snacking, road trips, or protein-packed lunchbox additions.
Using thinly sliced sirloin steak ensures tender yet chewy bites that absorb every ounce of flavor from the marinade. The combination of BBQ sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire, and a medley of spices gives this jerky an unmistakably bold character with a smoky undertone and just the right hint of heat.
The air fryer takes the guesswork out of drying the meat, offering a consistent low-temperature environment that gently dehydrates each strip to perfection. In just a few hours, you’ll have a batch of richly flavored jerky with a glossy finish and a crave-worthy texture.
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This recipe is especially great because it skips the need for a dehydrator and doesn’t require added preservatives or artificial flavorings. You control the ingredients, the seasoning, and the spice level, ensuring each bite is exactly how you like it.
Whether you’re stocking up for a weekend hike, prepping for a long drive, or just looking for a satisfying snack to stash at your desk, this homemade jerky will hit the spot every time.
Servings and timing:
Total Time: 4 hours (including marinating and air frying)
Yield: About 12–16 mini sticks
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin tip steak, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
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