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Best Cuts Of Meat For Beef Jerky (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a high-protein snack that’s easy to take on-the-go, beef jerky is a great option. But not all beef jerky is created equal. When shopping for beef jerky, there are a few key factors to consider.

First, it’s important to pay attention to the cuts of meat used for the jerky. The best beef jerky is made from lean cuts of meat, such as round or sirloin, that are trimmed of excess fat. These cuts of meat are typically more tender, resulting in a softer texture for the jerky. Additionally, using lean cuts of meat means that the jerky will be lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier snack option.

Another important factor to consider is the seasoning and flavoring used in the jerky. Some jerky brands use artificial flavors and preservatives, which can be harmful to your health. Look for brands that use natural flavors and ingredients, like sea salt and black pepper, for a healthier and more delicious snack.

Finally, consider the brand reputation and customer reviews before making a purchase. Look for brands that use high-quality cuts of meat and natural ingredients, and read customer reviews to see what other people have to say about the product. This can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re getting the best possible beef jerky.

Are you looking for a high-protein snack to fuel your active lifestyle? Want to ensure that you’re getting a healthy and delicious snack option? Consider beef jerky made from lean cuts of meat, like round or sirloin, and free from artificial flavors and preservatives. With so many great brands available, it’s easy to find the perfect beef jerky to satisfy your cravings.

10 Best Cuts Of Meat For Beef Jerky

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for those who want a delicious and convenient snack made with high-quality beef and pork.
2
The product is ideal for slicing beef jerky into precise, uniform slices with an adjustable thickness cutting board and sharp knife.
3
It is an ideal low-sodium, high-protein meat snack that comes in a bulk jerky package with thin sheets.
4
It's an ideal protein snack with high protein and low carbs, made with premium beef, perfect for on-the-go.
5
The product is ideal for slicing beef jerky uniformly and safely, with an adjustable thickness and dishwasher-safe materials.
6
Ideal for dehydrating a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and herbs with customizable time and temperature controls.
7
Ideal for snacking on a high-quality, protein-packed beef jerky with authentic smoky flavor.
8
It is ideal for a high protein and low carb snack, made with premium beef.
9
Ideal for slicing and tenderizing meat for jerky making or cooking.
10
This product is ideal for people who want a low-calorie, high-protein snack made with premium beef.
It is ideal for those who want a delicious and convenient snack made with high-quality beef and pork.
The product is ideal for slicing beef jerky into precise, uniform slices with an adjustable thickness cutting board and sharp knife.
It is an ideal low-sodium, high-protein meat snack that comes in a bulk jerky package with thin sheets.
It's an ideal protein snack with high protein and low carbs, made with premium beef, perfect for on-the-go.
The product is ideal for slicing beef jerky uniformly and safely, with an adjustable thickness and dishwasher-safe materials.
Ideal for dehydrating a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and herbs with customizable time and temperature controls.
Ideal for snacking on a high-quality, protein-packed beef jerky with authentic smoky flavor.
It is ideal for a high protein and low carb snack, made with premium beef.
Ideal for slicing and tenderizing meat for jerky making or cooking.
This product is ideal for people who want a low-calorie, high-protein snack made with premium beef.

1. Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef And Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks, 1 Ounce (16 Count)

Looking for a protein-packed snack that is perfect for on-the-go? Look no further than Chef's Cut Real Jerky Co's Original Smokehouse Real Snack Sticks. Made with fine cuts of beef and pork, these sticks are marinated with a blend of garlic, pepper, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard. They are handcrafted and slow smoked to perfection, ensuring that you get the best tasting product every time.

Each pack of Chef's Cut Real Snack Sticks comes in a resealable packaging, making it easy for you to store and enjoy at any time. Whether you're out golfing, hiking, camping, or fishing, these snack sticks are perfect for any outdoor activities.

Not only are these snack sticks delicious, but they are also protein-rich, with 8 grams of protein per serving. They are paleo and keto-friendly and come in sticks, pepperoni, and a variety pack. They are also gluten-free and nitrate-free, with no artificial preservatives added.

Chef's Cut Real Jerky Co is dedicated to redefining what beef jerky looks, tastes, and feels like. Their mission is simple: make the best tasting product using only the highest quality ingredients. Take the chef with you and enjoy the delicious taste of Chef's Cut Real Snack Sticks today.

Pros

  • Protein-packed snack made with fine cuts of beef and pork
  • Marinated with a blend of garlic, pepper, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard
  • Handcrafted and slow smoked to perfection
  • Resealable packaging for easy storage
  • 8 grams of protein per serving
  • Paleo and keto-friendly
  • Gluten-free and nitrate-free
  • No artificial preservatives added

2. Jerkypro Precision Slicing Kit

The Jerky Kit system is an excellent tool for those who love to make jerky at home. With its 2 adjustable thickness food-grade spacers, stainless steel jerky board, knife guide rails, and razor-sharp premium butcher's slicing knife, it creates 100% uniform, optimized jerky slices that evenly dry for safe consumption. This manual meat slicer is perfect for those who want to save money on buying an electric jerky slicer while still getting the same results. The ergonomic knife rails provide safe and consistent cuts, eliminating the need to eyeball where to cut and resulting in beautiful uniform slices every time. The stainless steel meat cutter machine is versatile and can slice all types of meat, including beef, venison, elk, buffalo, and deer, making it an ideal tool for making healthy homemade foods.

The Jerky Kit system is easy to use and clean, allowing for faster slicing, drying, and cleanup. It is adjustable for 1/8”, ¼” and 3/8” thick slices, and you can place whole muscle meat atop the manual meat slicer machine with one food-grade spacer for ¼” cuts. For 1/8” slices, use two spacers, and no spacers are needed for 3/8” slices. The finger guard ensures safe operation, and the slicer is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. The best 10” carving knife is included in the package, which is of butcher quality and ideal for cutting Thanksgiving turkey, fruits, vegetables, foods for frying, and even trimming and preparing large hunks of meat.

The Jerky Kit system has been meticulously inspected for craftsmanship, quality, longevity, and precision before being shipped to your door. The manufacturer guarantees that you will love how the premium manual slicer machine makes creating 100% uniform meat, fruit, and veggie slices fast, easy, and fun, or your money back! So go ahead, discover how real jerky masters make magic when you Click Add to Cart Now and try it risk-free for 90 days.

Pros

  • Adjustable thickness food-grade spacers
  • Stainless steel jerky board
  • Knife guide rails and razor-sharp premium butcher's slicing knife
  • Ergonomic knife rails provide safe and consistent cuts
  • Versatile cutting board slices all types of meat
  • Faster slicing, drying, and cleanup
  • Best 10” carving knife included
  • Meticulously inspected for craftsmanship, quality, longevity, and precision
  • 100% money-back guarantee

Cons

  • – Manual operation may not be suitable for those who prefer electric slicers

3. Big Slab Bulk Beef Jerky Pack

Indulge in the Western-inspired flavor of The Original Slab Jerky, a premium whole-muscle jerky made from 100% US beef. Each slab is 30% larger than its closest competitor, ensuring that you get more of the delicious meaty goodness with every bite. The Sweet & Black Pepper flavor profile offers a perfect balance of sweetness and mild black pepper, making this meat snack irresistible to your taste buds.

Sink your teeth into the whole slab texture of this cowboy jerky, which is tough and chewy just like your favorite homemade jerky. The longer you chew, the more flavor you get to enjoy. Made in the USA, this small-batch jerky is produced by a family-owned and operated business in Los Angeles, CA. It is the same fan-favorite fresh jerky found in gas stations across the West Coast, making it the perfect road trip snack.

The Original Slab Jerky is perfect for those with an active lifestyle. Its natural energy makes it an ideal on-the-go snack for activities such as camping, hiking, bodybuilding, or backpacking. It also makes a great grocery item for your pantry, keeping the whole family happy. Stash some in your office drawer to enjoy the best office snack.

Pros

  • Crafted from 100% premium US beef
  • 30% larger than the closest competitor
  • Sweet & Black Pepper flavor profile
  • Tough and chewy whole slab texture
  • Small-batch made in the USA
  • Perfect for on-the-go snacking and an active lifestyle
  • Great grocery item and office snack

4. Original Beef Steak Bites: Protein-Packed Snack!

Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is a perfect blend of original recipe and modern taste. Based on his great-grandfathers old-world recipes, this premium slice of beef is seasoned with a special blend of spices and slow smoked over hardwoods. Made with lean cuts of 100% premium beef, each beef steak is marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices. They are an epic protein snack that anyone will crave. With 23g of protein per serving, this protein snack is an excellent source of protein for those who need a protein boost. No refrigeration is required, so these ready-to-eat big packs are the perfect snack for work, home, the trails or the lake. Jack Link's is the #1 selling beef jerky brand, and when you open a bag, you get a taste of the American tradition that made this family business a success: hard work, fun, and quality products. Jack Link's protein snacks are the fuel for people to Feed Their Wild Side.

Pros

  • Made with 100% premium beef
  • Excellent source of protein with 23g per serving
  • No refrigeration required, perfect for on-the-go snacking
  • Based on great-grandfather's old-world recipe and slow smoked over hardwoods
  • Ready-to-eat big packs are convenient for work, home, and outdoor activities
  • Jack Link's is the #1 selling beef jerky brand

5. Beef Jerky Slicing Perfection Kit

Making jerky has never been easier with Uncomplicate Amazing Jerky. This meat slicer set comes with everything needed to make mouthwatering and succulent jerky without any fuss. The set includes a premium meat jerky slicer, a professional 10” chef’s knife, adjustable 1/8-inch thick spacers, a safety finger guard, and instant pro seasoning.

The slicer allows for thick or thin jerky slices, ensuring a 100% uniform smokehouse cook. The uniform slices also help protect one's health by ensuring a uniform smokehouse cure throughout. Simply adjust the spacer thickness to 1/8, 1/4, or 3/8 inches, slice, and dehydrate as instructed. Dehydrator not included.

This stainless-steel meat cutter machine is designed with a knife guide rail that allows for superior control of one's knife while keeping the meat in place and fingers safe. No more eyeballing required. Slicing, seasoning, drying, and cleanup are faster with this system than any other. Simply set the desired thickness, place the whole muscle meat on top, run the included meat cutting knife between the rails, remove the slice, and repeat until finished. Then, season the meat to taste with the included seasoning. For best results, use 1.5 tablespoons per lb of meat. Finally, toss the cutting board in the dishwasher and dehydrate the jerky.

This jerky maker set is a great value, and the manufacturer is so confident that they're willing to let customers try the Butcher's Knife, Cajun Seasoning, and Cutting Board risk-free for 90 days. Customers can return the set for a full, prompt refund if they're not satisfied. Click Add to Cart now and take this jerky maker set home to enjoy using it (and the knife).

Pros

  • Comes with everything needed to make mouthwatering jerky
  • Allows for thick or thin jerky slices
  • Ensures 100% uniform smokehouse cook
  • Designed with knife guide rail for superior control and safety
  • Fast and easy slicing, seasoning, drying, and cleanup
  • Great value and comes with a 90-day risk-free trial

6. Cosori 10-Tray Dehydrator: Ultimate Food Drying Machine

The COSORI food dehydrator is a high-quality appliance that allows you to make a wide range of preservative-free foods. With 10 stainless steel trays, this dehydrator provides up to 15 square feet of space to dry out various foods at once. The glass door allows you to monitor the process without opening the door and losing heat. The rear-mounted fan ensures even heat distribution, so you don't need to rotate the trays for efficient dehydration.

The digital control panel is easy to use, and the precise temperature control allows you to make a variety of foods such as beef jerky, fruit leather, breadcrumbs, yogurt, dog treats, dried herbs, and flowers, among others. The temperature can be set using one-degree increments, and the timer can be set in 30-minute increments for up to 48 hours. The dehydrator is suitable for anyone who wants to enjoy long-lasting, healthy snacks, whether for hiking, camping, or everyday life.

Cleaning the stainless steel trays is easy and quick with a soft brush and warm soapy water. The dehydrator is also safe to use, with noise levels below 51dB, which is as quiet as a library. It automatically shuts off when the timer ends, and there is built-in overheat protection that activates if the dehydrator overheats. The dehydrator is ETL-Listed & FDA-Compliant, ensuring your safety while using it.

The package comes with 50 recipes designed for beginners by COSORI chefs. A fruit roll sheet and mesh screen are also included to make any kind of recipe.

Pros

  • Large capacity with 10 stainless steel trays
  • Even heat distribution for efficient dehydration
  • Precise temperature control for a variety of foods
  • Suitable for everyone who wants to enjoy healthy snacks
  • Easy to clean and safe to use with built-in overheat protection
  • Comes with 50 recipes and accessories

7. Chef's Cut Real Smoked Beef Original Recipe Jerky, 14 Ounce

Indulge in the premium taste of Smoked Beef made from hand-picked beef cuts that are marinated in soy sauce, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce. The Original Recipe Real Steak Jerky has a perfect balance of salty, spicy, and sweet flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. This handcrafted jerky uses premium cuts of top-round sirloin, real ingredients, and chef-crafted marinades that create a tender and flavorful product. It's not just beef jerky; it's steak in a bag.

Chef's Cut Real Jerky is a protein-rich snack that contains 7-10 grams of protein per serving. This deliciously satisfying paleo and keto-friendly snack is available in sticks, pepperoni, and a variety pack. It's gluten-free and nitrate-free, without any artificial preservatives. With resealable packaging, our Jerky has a long shelf life, making it perfect for easy storage and outdoor activities like golf, hiking, camping, and fishing. Take the chef with you wherever you go!

Pros

  • Premium cuts of hand-picked beef
  • Chef-crafted marinades create tender and flavorful jerky
  • Protein-rich with 7-10 grams of protein per serving
  • Gluten-free and nitrate-free with no artificial preservatives
  • Resealable packaging provides a long shelf life
  • Perfect for outdoor activities like golf, hiking, camping, and fishing

8. Teriyaki Beef Steak: Protein-Packed Snack (12-Pack)

Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is a delicious snack that is full of flavor. Made from a family recipe, it is slow smoked to perfection with a sweet teriyaki flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. This classic snack has been a favorite of generations of the Jack Link family.

This beef snack is made with 100% premium beef that is carefully selected and marinated in a signature seasoning blend. It is then slow smoked over hardwood to perfection. With 9g of protein per serving, it is an excellent source of protein that will keep you fueled throughout the day.

The ready-to-eat big packs make it easy to take your snack with you anywhere you go. Stick a steak in your backpack or pocket and enjoy it whenever hunger strikes. No refrigeration is required, making it the perfect snack for work, home, the trails, or the lake.

Jack Link's is the number one selling beef jerky brand in America. It is a family-owned business that prides itself on hard work, fun, and quality products. When you open a bag of Jack Link's, you are experiencing a true American tradition. Their protein snacks are the fuel for people to Feed Their Wild Side.

Pros

  • Made with 100% premium beef
  • Full of flavor with sweet teriyaki seasoning
  • An excellent source of protein with 9g per serving
  • Ready-to-eat big packs make it convenient to take on-the-go
  • No refrigeration required

9. Lem Products 602tj Electric 2-In-1 Jerky Slicer And Tenderizer,silver

The LEM Products 468 Jerky Slicer is a powerful and efficient tool for slicing meat into perfect strips. With the ability to slice meat up to 1-1/4" thick, this slicer makes it easy to create delicious jerky in no time.

This jerky slicer is capable of making 14 perfect jerky strips at a time, making it a great choice for both commercial and home use. The chute dimensions are 1-1/4" x 4-1/2" x 8", providing plenty of space for even large cuts of meat.

Cleaning up after use is a breeze with this jerky slicer, as it easily disassembles for quick and easy cleaning. Made of durable powder painted aluminum, this slicer is built to last and can withstand heavy use.

The LEM Products 468 Jerky Slicer comes with a powerful .35 HP motor that is self-lubricating and never needs maintenance. With no tools or assembly required, this jerky slicer is ready to use right out of the box.

Pros

  • Capable of slicing meat up to 1-1/4" thick
  • Makes 14 perfect jerky strips at a time
  • Easy to clean and disassemble
  • Made of durable powder painted aluminum
  • Powerful .35 HP motor is self-lubricating and never needs maintenance
  • No tools or assembly required for use

10. Protein-Packed Prime Rib Jerky Snack

Looking for a high-protein snack that's both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than Jack Link's Prime Rib Tender Cuts! Made with 100% premium beef, these tender cuts are lean and 96% fat-free, making them a healthy choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. With 11 grams of protein and only 70 calories per serving, they're a great way to satisfy your hunger and keep you energized throughout the day.

Each jumbo 5.6-ounce bag of Jack Link's Prime Rib Tender Cuts contains about six servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or for keeping all to yourself. And thanks to the resealable packaging, you can enjoy these delicious snacks whenever you like, without having to worry about them going stale or losing their flavor.

Looking for a snack that's perfect for any occasion? Jack Link's Prime Rib Tender Cuts are a great choice for anyone who needs a quick and easy snack on the go. Whether you're at work, at home, or on the road, these tender cuts are the perfect way to stay fueled and focused.

As one of the most popular beef jerky brands on the market today, Jack Link's is committed to providing high-quality, delicious snacks that people love. With a long history of hard work, fun, and quality products, this family business has become a true American tradition, and their protein snacks are the perfect fuel for anyone looking to Feed Their Wild Side.

Pros

  • Made with 100% premium beef
  • 96% fat-free and a great source of protein
  • Resealable sharing size bag with approximately six servings
  • Perfect for a quick and easy snack on the go
  • A popular and well-respected beef jerky brand

Best Cuts Of Meat For Beef Jerky FAQs

Are there any cuts of beef to avoid when making jerky?

Yes, there are certain cuts of beef that are not recommended for making jerky. One of them is the fatty cuts of beef such as ribeye or sirloin. These cuts contain a lot of fat which can spoil the jerky and make it go rancid quickly. Moreover, the fat doesn't dehydrate well, which can leave the jerky with a greasy texture.

Another cut to avoid is the tough cuts of beef such as chuck or brisket. These cuts require a lot of chewing and can be quite stringy, making them unsuitable for jerky. The ideal cut of beef for making jerky is the lean cuts such as eye of round or flank steak. These cuts contain less fat and can dehydrate well, resulting in a flavorful and tender jerky.

It's important to note that the quality of the beef also plays a crucial role in making jerky. Always opt for high-quality beef and avoid any cuts that have been treated with hormones or antibiotics. Additionally, ensure that the beef is fresh and has been properly stored before making jerky.

Can any cut of beef be used for jerky or are certain cuts better?

Yes, any cut of beef can be used for jerky, but certain cuts are better than others. The best cuts of beef for jerky are the leaner cuts, such as eye of round, top round, or sirloin. These cuts are less marbled and have less fat, which makes them easier to slice thinly and dry out evenly. In contrast, fattier cuts like ribeye or brisket will take longer to dry out and can become rancid more quickly. Additionally, the fat can spoil, causing the jerky to spoil as well. It's also important to remove any visible fat before slicing the beef, as this can speed up spoilage and affect the texture of the finished product. So, while any cut of beef can technically be used for jerky, leaner cuts are the best option for a tasty and long-lasting snack.

How does the quality of the beef affect the jerky?

The quality of beef plays a crucial role in the overall taste and texture of jerky. The most commonly used meat for jerky is beef, and the quality of the beef can vary depending on various factors such as breed, age, and diet of the animal.

High-quality beef that is lean and tender makes for the best jerky, as it has less fat and connective tissue, which makes it easier to cut into thin strips. Additionally, lean beef contains less moisture, which is essential for making jerky since moisture promotes bacterial growth and spoilage.

The quality of the beef also affects the flavor of the jerky. Beef from grass-fed animals has a more robust and earthy flavor compared to beef from grain-fed animals. The type of cut used, such as sirloin or flank steak, can also affect the flavor and texture of the jerky.

In conclusion, the quality of the beef used in making jerky is essential to the final product's taste and texture. High-quality beef that is lean, tender, and from grass-fed animals makes for the best jerky.

What are the best cuts of beef for making jerky?

When it comes to making jerky, not all cuts of beef are created equal. While any lean cut of beef can be used, some cuts are better suited to the process of dehydration and seasoning that goes into making jerky.

The best cuts of beef for making jerky are typically lean cuts that come from the hindquarters of the animal. Popular choices include top round, bottom round, and sirloin tip. These cuts have a low fat content, which makes them perfect for drying out without becoming too tough.

Another factor to consider when choosing a cut of beef for jerky is the grain of the meat. Cuts that have a consistent grain, such as top round, are easier to slice evenly and result in more uniform jerky pieces.

Ultimately, the best cut of beef for making jerky comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the texture of leaner cuts, while others may prefer a slightly fattier cut like brisket. Experimenting with different cuts and seasoning blends can help you discover your own perfect jerky recipe.

What is the ideal thickness for cutting beef for jerky?

The ideal thickness for cutting beef for jerky is around 1/4 inch or slightly thinner. This thickness is perfect for creating chewy and flavorful jerky that is easy to eat and enjoy. If the beef is cut too thick, it will take longer to dry out and may result in tough and chewy jerky. On the other hand, if the beef is cut too thin, it may dry out too quickly and become brittle and hard.

To achieve the ideal thickness, it is recommended to use a sharp knife and slice the beef against the grain. This will help to break down the connective tissues and make the jerky more tender. Additionally, it is important to trim off any excess fat or gristle before slicing the beef to ensure that the jerky is lean and healthy. Overall, by following these guidelines and experimenting with different flavor combinations, you can make delicious and nutritious beef jerky that is perfect for snacking on the go or sharing with friends and family.

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