smoked beef jerky recipe
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The Best smoked beef jerky recipe
Smoked beef jerky is one of those simple dishes that feels like a little treat without being complicated. I’ve been making it for years, mostly because it’s one of those things that doesn’t take much effort but leaves everyone in the family satisfied—whether it’s a quick snack for kids on the go, a protein-packed bite for a picnic, or just a easy way to enjoy meat after a long day. The kids love it because it’s crunchy and salty, and the adults appreciate how it keeps well for weeks without needing refrigeration. It’s also a great way to use up lean cuts of beef that might otherwise go to waste, and the process is surprisingly satisfying, too. Plus, jerky is packed with protein and iron, which makes it a smart choice for busy days when you need something filling without the fuss of a full meal. It’s not just practical—it’s a little reward for the effort, and honestly, that’s what makes it worth it.
Classic Smoked Beef Jerky
4.6 from 875 votes
A simple, no-fuss way to make tender, flavorful beef jerky at home using a basic dough and sauce. Perfect for snacking or meal prep.
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal
🥘Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 lbs lean beef (top round or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 200°F. Thinly slice the beef into 1/8-inch thick strips. -
2
Mix flour, salt, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Spread the beef slices evenly across the dough, pressing lightly to adhere. -
3
Roll the beef-dough mixture tightly into a log, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. -
4
Unwrap and slice the beef into 1/8-inch thick strips. In another bowl, mix tomato sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. -
5
Place beef strips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pour the sauce over the strips, ensuring even coverage. -
6
Bake at 200°F for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is dry and slightly crispy. -
7
Let the jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Baking sheet
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10💛Saturated Fat: 3❤️Cholesterol: 80🧂Sodium: 1200🌾Total Carbs: 12🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 25
📝Notes
Tips: For extra flavor, marinate the beef slices in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for 30 minutes before rolling. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer shelf life.
Watch Video Of How Classic Smoked Beef Jerky Works
This smoked beef jerky is a simple yet versatile snack that’s perfect for any gathering—whether you’re serving it at a picnic, packing lunches for the kids, or just keeping a stash for quick bites. It’s easy to make ahead, so you can prep it in advance and enjoy it whenever you need a protein-packed treat without extra effort. Plus, it’s always a hit with family, especially when paired with chips or as a healthy alternative to chips and dip.
