Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Homemade beef jerky with a smoky barbecue marinade, made in the air fryer in a fraction of the time of a dehydrator. Thin strips of lean beef turn chewy and flavorful with brown sugar, paprika and garlic.
It makes a high-protein snack for road trips and lunchboxes, and tastes better than most store-bought jerky. Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
Marinade
Whisk the sesame oil, olive oil, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and pepper.
Slice and marinate
Cut the beef into thin strips, ideally against the grain, and toss in the marinade. Refrigerate overnight.
Arrange
Lay the strips in a single layer in the basket, not overlapping. Work in batches.
Dry
Cook at 160°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, then test one; cook longer if you want it drier and chewier.
Cool
Let the jerky cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
- Partially freeze the beef for 30 minutes to slice it thinner.
- Pat the strips dry before cooking for better texture.
- Stored airtight in the fridge, it keeps about 1 week.
Frequently asked
How long does beef jerky take in the air fryer?
About 25 minutes at 160°F for thin strips, longer if you prefer it very dry.
What cut of beef is best?
Lean top round, eye of round or flank steak, trimmed of fat.
How long does it keep?
About 1 week in the refrigerator in an airtight container.


