How to Make the Best Ground Beef Jerky Recipe at Home
If you love high-protein snacks and crave something savory, smoky, and satisfying, then this Ground Beef Jerky Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple, affordable, and doesn’t require any special equipment—just an oven and a few pantry staples. With the right technique, you can turn lean ground beef into tender, flavorful jerky that’s perfect for snacking, road trips, lunchboxes, or post-workout fuel.
Why Try Jerky Recipes Using Ground Beef?
Unlike traditional jerky made from whole cuts of meat, jerky recipes using ground beef are easier to prepare and chew. The seasonings blend right into the beef, ensuring even flavor distribution in every bite. You’ll also save time because there’s no need to slice meat or marinate overnight. If you’re looking for a reliable beef jerky recipe ground beef method, this version is perfect for beginners and pros alike.
What Makes This Ground Beef Jerky Recipe So Good?
It’s Cost-Effective and Customizable
Store-bought jerky can be pricey and often packed with preservatives. Making beef jerky with ground beef recipe at home lets you control the ingredients while saving money. Prefer a spicier version? Add more red pepper flakes. Want something sweet and smoky? A touch of brown sugar and liquid smoke does the trick. This flexibility makes it one of the most versatile ground beef jerky recipes available.
No Dehydrator Needed
Don’t have a dehydrator? No problem. This recipe uses a low oven temperature and airflow for perfect texture. By flattening the beef thinly and using a wire rack if available, you’ll get evenly dried, chewy jerky that rivals any store-bought variety.
Packed with Protein and Flavor
High in protein and low in carbs, this ground beef jerky recipe is ideal for keto, paleo, or high-protein diets. It’s also a great snack for kids, athletes, or anyone who wants something savory without reaching for chips or sugary treats.
A Snack You Can Make Any Time of Year
Whether you’re prepping healthy snacks for a summer road trip or just want something delicious and homemade to stash in your pantry, jerky recipes using ground beef are a great solution. Try this once, and it might just become a regular in your kitchen routine.
Ground Beef Jerky Recipe
Description
Make flavorful, chewy jerky at home with this easy ground beef jerky recipe no dehydrator needed! Perfect for high-protein snacking, it’s seasoned with pantry spices, soy sauce, and optional liquid smoke. Great for keto diets, road trips, and meal prep, this ground beef jerky recipe delivers bold flavor, simple steps, and delicious results every time. A budget-friendly snack that's healthier and tastier than store-bought jerky.
Ingredients
Instructions
Mix the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine all seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, liquid smoke, and brown sugar.
Add Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until the seasoning is evenly distributed. The mixture should be sticky and well combined.
Form the Jerky Strips:
Place the beef mixture between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin to flatten it to about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.
Remove the top layer and cut the flattened beef into strips using a knife or pizza cutter (about 1 inch wide by 4–6 inches long).
Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Use a wire rack on top if possible for even airflow and drying. Leave a small gap between each piece.
Dry the Jerky (Oven Method):
Preheat oven to 170°F (or the lowest setting).
Bake for 4 to 6 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry, firm, and slightly bendable but not brittle.
Cool and Store:
Let jerky cool completely.
Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag. It will keep for up to 1 week at room temperature or 2–3 weeks in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 70kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.5g7%
- Saturated Fat 1.7g9%
- Cholesterol 25mg9%
- Sodium 350mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 8g16%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
