Do you want to know how to make your own beef jerky? Look no further! This article will show you how to do it in a dehydrator, step by step. From picking out the meat to slice, marinating it with a great recipe, drying it out, and checking to see when it’s done, this includes everything. [feast_advanced_jump_to].
Beef jerky is a tasty and portable snack that has been popular for centuries It’s made by taking lean cuts of beef, slicing them into thin strips, marinating them in a flavorful liquid, and then slowly drying them until the moisture content is very low This drying process helps preserve the meat and gives it that signature chewy texture. While traditionally dried in the sun or over a fire, using a food dehydrator is the easiest and most consistent way to get great results when making beef jerky at home.
One of the most common questions when cooking beef jerky in a dehydrator is how long it takes. The answer depends on a few key factors
Meat Thickness
The thickness of the meat slices will greatly impact total cook time. Slices that are only 1/4 inch thick will dry out a lot faster than slices that are at least 1/2 Thinner slices have less moisture to remove during the drying process. It’s best to cut the meat into even slices before marinating so that it cooks evenly.
Dehydrator Temperature
Most dehydrators have a temperature range between 95°F on the low end up to 165°F at the highest settings. Higher temperatures will speed up drying time. The ideal dehydrator temperature for making beef jerky is 160°F. This high heat helps remove moisture while also getting the meat up to a safe internal temperature.
Desired Texture
How dry and chewy you like your finished jerky also plays a role. Some people prefer jerky on the drier side with a more brittle texture. For this, longer cook times are needed. If you like your jerky a little more flexible and juicy, cook it for less time. It’s helpful to test pieces at different times to find the best timing for you.
Keeping these things in mind, here are some general rules for how long to dry out beef jerky:
- 1/4 inch slices at 160°F: 4-6 hours
- 1/3 inch slices at 160°F: 5-7 hours
- 1/2 inch slices at 160°F: 6-8 hours
These times are for a jerky that is dried but still flexible. For jerky that is very dry and brittle, add 1-2 hours to the times above.
It’s important to check the jerky periodically as it dehydrates. After about 4 hours, start checking pieces every 30 minutes until done. Properly dried jerky will bend but not break when you fold it. You can also tear a piece in half to check for light-colored dried fibers on the inside, which indicates doneness.
Let the jerky cool for 30-60 minutes before storing. This helps the moisture evenly distribute in the meat. If any moisture droplets form on the surface while cooling, pat them gently with a paper towel. Then store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep jerky in the refrigerator or freezer.
Following these dehydrating times and testing for doneness is the best way to ensure your homemade beef jerky turns out perfectly textured and safe to eat. Adjustments may be needed based on the specific model and performance of your dehydrator. But with some testing, you’ll find the right cook times to make delicious jerky you can enjoy as a healthy snack anytime.
⏲️ Drying the jerky
Step 7- Its time for the easy part! As I mentioned above, I used my Excalibur Dehydrator for this batch. Place the beef strips on the racks making sure that they are not touching or overlapping.
Leaving space in between the beef jerky slices allows the air to better circulate and dry the meat.
Step 8 – Beef jerky takes around 4-5 hours to dry when dehydrating. Turn the dehydrator to 165° and let it run for about 4 hours until the internal temperature of the jerky reaches a safe 160° as per guidelines from the USDA. Depending on how thick your slices are will determine how long it will take to finish dehydrating, this beef jerky took 5 hours to dry.
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Great prices! I found that a USDA Choice Beef Eye of Round Roast (one of the best cuts for jerky) at Sam’s cost $4 in my area. 68. This is compared to $6. 99 a pound at the local chain grocery store, thats a 33% savings!.
Plus you’ll save money on a lot of other things, like ground beef, salmon, tuna, Prime brisket, paper towels, spices, and more.
How to Make Beef Jerky with a DEHYDRATOR
FAQ
How long does beef jerky take in a dehydrator?
How do you know when jerky is done dehydrating?
Do you flip jerky in a dehydrator?
How long does it take to make beef jerky without a dehydrator?
How long does it take to dehydrate beef jerky?
The beef jerky dehydrator time depends on the thickness of the meat, humidity and the amount of jerky that you are going to dry in the machine. It usually takes 4 to 15 hours to dehydrate beef jerky in the food dehydrator. You have to marinate the meat of the beef at least 6 to 8 hours and keep it overnight.
What temperature should beef jerky be dehydrated?
Pro Tip: We recommend dehydrating beef jerky at a temperature of 165°F. The second advantage of a dehydrator is extraction of moisture from the cooking environment. This allows the meat to dry as it cooks. Most home ovens operate in a sealed environment which traps moisture. A dehydrator circulates and extracts warm air.
How long does jerky take to dry?
Dry for 3 hours at 165 degrees allowing the internal temperature to reach 160 degrees and then turn down to 145F. Check the meat after 4 hours and keep drying until the jerky bends and cracks, but does not break in half. Allow jerky to cool for several hours before storing.
How do you dehydrate jerky?
Remove meat and pat dry (we use paper towels, feel free to use other alternatives), add to dehydrator in a single layer. Add to a dehydrator (we use an inexpensive model and it works just fine, Alton Brown uses a box fan and some air filters and there are higher power models available for those who really get into their jerky making adventures)