beef jerky with ground beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
beef jerky with ground beef recipe
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The Best beef jerky with ground beef recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – beef jerky with ground beef is a game-changer for any occasion. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and healthy meal ideas that my family will love, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

The idea of making beef jerky at home may seem intimidating, but trust me when I say it’s easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and versatile snack that’s perfect for on-the-go or as a quick dinner solution.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your family’s tastes – just add your favorite seasonings or spices to give it an extra boost of flavor. I first discovered this recipe a few years ago when I was looking for ways to get my kids to eat more protein.

They love the idea of ‘jerky’ and are always asking for more, so I’ve made it a staple in our household. It’s also become a go-to for potlucks and family gatherings – everyone loves the combination of tender beef and sweet, tangy flavors.

And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make in bulk, so you can stock up and enjoy it all week long without any fuss.

Whether you’re serving it as a snack or as part of a meal, this beef jerky with ground beef recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends alike.

Ground Beef Jerky

Ground Beef Jerky

4.7 from 1731 votes

A flavorful and chewy jerky made from ground beef, perfect for a high-protein snack. This recipe uses a simple marinade and a dehydrator or oven to create a shelf-stable treat.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Jerky

1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4Place the chilled meat mixture between two large sheets of parchment paper.
5Use a rolling pin to roll the meat into a thin, even rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
6Ensure the thickness is uniform for consistent drying.
7Remove the top sheet of parchment paper.
8Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the meat into strips, about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
9Leave the strips in place on the parchment paper.
10If using a dehydrator, transfer the parchment paper with the strips onto the dehydrator trays.
11If using an oven, preheat the oven to its lowest setting (usually 170°F or 175°F) and place the strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
12Dehydrate at 160°F for 4 to 6 hours, or bake in the oven for 3 to 4 hours, until the jerky is dry and firm but still slightly pliable.
13Check for doneness by bending a piece; it should crack but not break.
14The jerky should be dry to the touch with no visible moisture.
15Let the jerky cool completely on a wire rack before storing.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Plastic wrap
Rolling pin
Parchment paper
Dehydrator or baking sheet
Sharp knife or pizza cutter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For best results, use lean ground beef to minimize shrinkage and greasiness. Store the jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Watch Video Of How Ground Beef Jerky Works

This beef jerky with ground beef recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick snack or want something to serve at your next family gathering. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides like crackers or cheese plates.

To keep your jerky fresh for longer periods of time, be sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to reheat your jerky, simply wrap it in foil and heat it up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Jerky

Q1: What is the difference between regular jerky and beef jerky made with ground beef?

This recipe uses ground beef instead of sliced meat, which gives it a more uniform texture and flavor. It also makes it easier to cook evenly throughout.

Q2: Can I use store-bought seasonings instead of making my own spice blend?

You can certainly use store-bought seasonings if that’s what you have on hand, but keep in mind that they may not have the same depth of flavor as homemade blends.

Q3: How do I know when the jerky is done cooking?

The jerky is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and has a dry, leathery texture.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients like dried fruit or nuts to give it more texture?

While you can certainly experiment with different ingredients, keep in mind that adding too many extras may alter the flavor profile too much.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

No, this recipe uses ground beef as its main ingredient, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

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