Looking for a high-protein, low-carb snack to fuel your keto lifestyle? Keto beef jerky is the answer. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it’s also the perfect on-the-go treat for road trips, hikes, or just a quick snack during the day. The best part? You can make it at home, customize it to your taste, and skip all the sugar-laden options from the store.

keto beef jerky recipe​

This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of making keto-friendly beef jerky at home. You’ll learn which cuts of meat work best, how to create the perfect sugar-free marinade, and tips to ensure your jerky stays tender and flavorful. By the end, you’ll have a keto snack staple that satisfies your cravings without breaking your macros.

Why Make Homemade Keto Beef Jerky?

Before we jump into the recipe, here’s why making your own jerky is a game-changer:

  1. Control the Ingredients

Store-bought beef jerky often contains added sugars, preservatives, and hidden carbs. Homemade jerky lets you skip all the unnecessary extras and ensures your snacks are totally keto-friendly.

  1. Cost-Effective

Beef jerky from the store can be pricey, especially for premium or keto versions. By making it at home, you save money while making a larger batch.

  1. Customization

Love spicy snacks? Prefer savory over sweet? You can adjust your jerky to your exact liking by experimenting with seasonings and flavors.

  1. Portable Snack Boost

Keto jerky is packed with protein and energy, making it the ultimate snack for busy lifestyles.

Now that you’re convinced, here’s the ultimate recipe for keto beef jerky.

What You’ll Need to Make Keto Beef Jerky

Before starting, gather these key items and ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • 1½ - 2 pounds of lean beef (e.g., eye of round, top round, or flank steak)
  • ½ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for soy-free option)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • A few drops of liquid smoke (optional, for extra flavor)

Equipment:

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large mixing bowl or resealable plastic bag (for marinating)
  • Wire rack
  • Baking sheet
  • Dehydrator or oven

Optional:

  • Meat slicer (if you want exceptionally thin slices)
  • Vacuum sealer (for long-term storage)

How to Make Keto Beef Jerky at Home

Follow these steps to make your perfect batch of keto beef jerky:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cut of Beef

For jerky, lean meat is your best friend. Fatty cuts spoil faster and don’t dehydrate as well. Go for cuts like eye of round, top round, or flank steak, as these are typically low in fat and easy to slice.

Pro Tip: Ask your butcher to trim the fat from your beef and slice it thinly (approximately ⅛ to ¼-inch thick) for you. This can save prep time!

Step 2: Slice Your Beef

If you’re slicing it yourself, freeze the meat for 1–2 hours first. This will firm up the beef, making it much easier to cut thinly and evenly. Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain for a more tender jerky, or with the grain for a chewier texture.

Step 3: Create the Marinade

Combine the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke in a mixing bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.

This marinade delivers bold, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors without any sugar or carbs.

Step 4: Marinate the Beef

Place the slices of beef in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure all the slices are fully coated. Seal the bag (or cover the bowl) and refrigerate for at least 6–12 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.

Pro Tip: Turn the bag occasionally to ensure the marinade penetrates all the pieces evenly.

Step 5: Dehydrate the Beef

You can make jerky using an oven or a dehydrator. Here’s how to do it with both methods:

Using a Dehydrator:

  1. Arrange the marinated beef slices on the dehydrator trays in a single layer. Avoid overlapping them.
  2. Set the temperature to 160°F and dehydrate for about 4–6 hours, or until the jerky is fully dry but still slightly pliable.

Using an Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 160°F–175°F.
  2. Lay the beef slices on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet (the baking sheet will catch drips).
  3. Prop the oven door open slightly using a heat-safe spoon to allow moisture to escape.
  4. Bake for 4–5 hours or until the jerky is completely dry.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once dry, remove the jerky and allow it to cool completely. Store the beef jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature, and longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Tips for the Perfect Keto Beef Jerky

  1. Go Easy on Salty Add-Ons: Soy sauce is naturally salty. Be cautious about adding more salt unless you prefer an extra-salty jerky.
  2. Experiment with Flavors: Add chili flakes, fresh herbs, or other spices to experiment with different flavor profiles.
  3. Check for Doneness: Properly dehydrated jerky should bend and crack slightly but not snap when bent.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Serving size: 1 ounce

  • Calories: ~80
  • Protein: ~12g
  • Fat: ~2g
  • Carbs: 0g (yay, keto!)

Why Keto Beef Jerky is Your Snack MVP

This jerky isn’t just a guilty pleasure; it’s packed with healthy protein, keeps you full, and fits perfectly into a low-carb diet. Store it in your pantry or pack it for when hunger strikes on the go. It’s a snack that’s as practical as it is delicious.

Need more keto snack inspiration? Check out our guide to keto-friendly recipes you can make at home (link).

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