Get ready to take your snack game to the next level with these 20 mouth-watering, tongue-tingling, and utterly addictive spicy beef jerky recipes! Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or bold and adventurous combinations, we’ve got you covered. From sweet and spicy pineapple to smoky chipotle and everything in between, our collection of beef jerky recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of beef jerky and exploring the many ways you can spice up (pun intended) this beloved snack. With a range of flavors that cater to all tastes and dietary needs, there’s something for everyone in this list of 20 spicy beef jerky recipes. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or dehydrator, and get ready to unleash your inner snack master!
Classic Homemade Beef Jerky
A classic favorite, homemade beef jerky is a snack that’s both flavorful and convenient. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create deliciously chewy strips of beef jerky in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Spicy Sriracha Beef Jerky
Kick up the flavor with this spicy take on traditional beef jerky. This recipe combines the richness of beef with the bold heat of sriracha, perfect for snacking on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the beef strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Teriyaki Glazed Beef Jerky
Add a twist to traditional beef jerky with this sweet and savory teriyaki glaze recipe. Perfect for snacking or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, honey, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Honey Garlic Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory honey garlic beef jerky recipe, perfect for a quick energy boost or as a tasty addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place beef strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey garlic mixture evenly onto both sides of the beef strips.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness and chewiness.
6. Remove from oven, let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Smoky Chipotle Beef Jerky
Add a spicy kick to your snack time with this flavorful beef jerky recipe, infused with the smokiness of chipotles and the richness of beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, chipotle peppers, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef to the marinade and massage it into the meat, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Place the marinated beef on wire racks set over baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
5. Dehydrate the beef in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Peppered Beef Jerky with Bourbon
This recipe combines the classic flavors of beef jerky with the richness of bourbon, adding a smoky and savory twist to this popular snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, bourbon, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Maple Bourbon Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory Maple Bourbon Beef Jerky recipe. A perfect blend of rich flavors, tender texture, and addictive crunch, this treat is sure to satisfy any beef jerky enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Korean BBQ Beef Jerky
Experience the bold flavors of Korean BBQ in this sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for on-the-go or as a tasty addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as flank steak or skirt steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Jalapeño Lime Beef Jerky
This recipe combines the bold flavor of jalapeño peppers with the bright, citrusy taste of lime juice to create a unique and delicious beef jerky. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a flavorful addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 teaspoons jalapeño pepper, minced
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, jalapeño pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Beef Jerky
Add a tropical twist to your beef jerky game with this sweet and spicy recipe! The perfect snack for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking for a flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Dehydrate in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Garlic Parmesan Beef Jerky
Elevate your snacking game with this savory blend of garlic and parmesan flavors, perfectly balanced to satisfy your cravings. This recipe yields a deliciously chewy beef jerky that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place the beef steak in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the beef, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Place the beef on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
8. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the beef.
9. Bake for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Black Pepper and Rosemary Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this unique beef jerky recipe that combines the bold flavors of black pepper and rosemary. Perfect for a quick energy boost or as a tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Arrange beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle rosemary leaves and brown sugar evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Hot Honey Mustard Beef Jerky
This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef jerky with the spicy sweetness of hot honey and tangy mustard, creating a unique snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup hot honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot honey, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray.
5. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Mesquite Smoked Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering Mesquite Smoked Beef Jerky recipe, where the bold flavor of mesquite wood pairs perfectly with tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Mesquite wood chips (enough for 2-3 hours of smoking)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 150°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Place the beef strips on the smoker racks and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of chewiness.
6. Once cooked, let the jerky cool completely before slicing into strips.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Balsamic Glazed Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory beef jerky recipe infused with the rich flavors of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a tasty addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange beef strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Five-Spice Asian Beef Jerky
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this sweet and savory beef jerky recipe, infused with the warm aromas of five-spice powder. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic powder, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap or a zip-top bag.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Dehydrate in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Buffalo Ranch Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines the boldness of buffalo sauce with the tanginess of ranch dressing. This addictive beef jerky is perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a satisfying post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce, ranch seasoning, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Whiskey Infused Beef Jerky
Whiskey Infused Beef Jerky Recipe
Elevate your snacking game with this bold and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of whiskey with tender beef jerky. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique party favor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup whiskey (your choice of type and quantity)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Smoked Paprika Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this savory and slightly sweet beef jerky recipe infused with the rich flavor of smoked paprika. Perfect for on-the-go or as a tasty addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Dry in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Cajun Spiced Beef Jerky
Get ready for a bold and spicy flavor with this Cajun Spiced Beef Jerky recipe! This flavorful snack is perfect for anyone who loves the heat of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or top round)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Summary
Get ready to level up your snack game with these 20 spicy beef jerky recipes! From classic homemade to innovative flavor combinations like Sriracha-spiked and Teriyaki-glazed, there’s something for every palate. Spicy options abound, including Chipotle-smoked and Jalapeño-lime. But don’t worry, sweet-tooths – there are plenty of honey-garlic and bourbon-infused recipes to satisfy your cravings too. Whether you like it smoky, savory, or downright hot, these beef jerky recipes will keep you coming back for more.
