Homemade Doc’s Best Beef Jerky Recipe: Protein-Packed Snack Perfection

Doc’s Best Beef Jerky: Ultimate Beef Jerky Recipe

An easy, homemade beef jerky marinade made with soy sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and spices creates the most flavorful protein-packed snack — maybe even the best you’d ever had! If you’re searching for a mouthwatering beef jerky recipe that boasts bold flavor and chewy perfection, you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Jerky Recipe

Transform simple ingredients into a crave-worthy, high-protein snack. Perfect for hiking, road trips, or midday cravings—this DIY beef jerky recipe delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients for the Best Beef Jerky Recipe

• 2 lbs lean beef (flank steak or top round), thinly sliced against the grain
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp liquid smoke
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Beef Jerky Recipe Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and thin-slice beef against the grain for tender jerky.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place beef strips in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, and massage to coat evenly.
4. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight for deep flavor infusion.
5. Preheat your dehydrator to 160°F (70°C) or oven to 175°F (80°C) with the rack in the middle position.
6. Remove beef from marinade, pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
7. Arrange strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays or wire racks set over baking sheets.
8. Dehydrate or bake for 3–4 hours, checking every hour for desired chewiness and dryness.
9. Once done, let jerky cool completely; it should bend and crack but not break.
10. Store in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 2 weeks.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Beef Jerky Recipe

• Slice thinly: Partially freeze beef to get consistent, 1/8-inch slices.
• Marinating magic: Longer marinade time = richer taste.
• Low and slow: Keep heat low to avoid overcooking edges.
• Test strips: Pull one out at 3 hours to check texture.
• Storage: Use moisture absorbers to keep jerky crisp.

Nutrition Information

Per serving: 228 kcal; 19 g protein; 14 g fat; 5 g carbs; 733 mg sodium.

Yield: 10 servings

With this beef jerky recipe in your snack arsenal, you’ll always have a savory, high-protein treat on hand.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes.