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Best Meat For Beef Jerky In Smoker (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a delicious and savory snack, beef jerky is always a popular choice. Making your own beef jerky with a smoker can add an extra depth of flavor to the meat, but the process can be overwhelming for beginners. When considering what meat to use for your jerky, it’s important to consider factors such as the cut, quality, and seasoning.

The type of cut of meat you use can drastically affect the texture and taste of your beef jerky. For example, a leaner cut like top round or flank steak is ideal for jerky because it has less fat, which can spoil more quickly. In terms of quality, look for meat that is fresh and free of any blemishes or discoloration. It’s also important to consider the seasoning, as different spices and marinades can affect the taste of the final product.

Are you tired of store-bought beef jerky and want to try your hand at making your own in a smoker? Wondering what kind of meat would work best? Consider the cut, quality, and seasoning to create the perfect, flavorful beef jerky. Don’t settle for mediocre store brands when you can create your own, customized snack that satisfies your cravings. So why not give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious homemade beef jerky can be!

10 Best Meat For Beef Jerky In Smoker

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for those who want a savory, hardwood-smoked beef jerky that's convenient to carry and share.
2
It is ideal for individuals looking for a high protein snack that has a traditional wood-smoked flavor.
3
Ideal snack for on-the-go or at-home consumption, providing a savory and satisfying taste with a smoky flavor.
4
The product is ideal for smoking food with its three removable shelves and large cooking space.
5
Ideal for snacking or adding protein to meals, with the bold flavor of real hardwood smoked sausages in a convenient jar.
6
It is an ideal snack for those who love the original beef flavor and want a large quantity.
7
Ideal gift for meat lovers, including beef jerky and meat sticks in a steel ammo can.
8
Ideal for those who enjoy meat and cheese snack packs, high in protein, and looking for a fun gift idea.
9
The product is ideal for those looking for a healthy snack option that is gluten-free and high in protein.
10
This product is ideal for those who enjoy beef jerky and are looking for a variety pack with no added MSG.
Ideal for those who want a savory, hardwood-smoked beef jerky that's convenient to carry and share.
It is ideal for individuals looking for a high protein snack that has a traditional wood-smoked flavor.
Ideal snack for on-the-go or at-home consumption, providing a savory and satisfying taste with a smoky flavor.
The product is ideal for smoking food with its three removable shelves and large cooking space.
Ideal for snacking or adding protein to meals, with the bold flavor of real hardwood smoked sausages in a convenient jar.
It is an ideal snack for those who love the original beef flavor and want a large quantity.
Ideal gift for meat lovers, including beef jerky and meat sticks in a steel ammo can.
Ideal for those who enjoy meat and cheese snack packs, high in protein, and looking for a fun gift idea.
The product is ideal for those looking for a healthy snack option that is gluten-free and high in protein.
This product is ideal for those who enjoy beef jerky and are looking for a variety pack with no added MSG.

1. Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Silver Dollar Beef Jerky, Old Fashioned, 13 Ounce

Indulge in the mouth-watering taste of Old Fashioned Silver Dollar Beef Jerky made from 100% premium beef, sourced fresh from the farm. The beef is seasoned with simple ingredients that you could find in your pantry and slow smoked over real hardwood, giving it an unparalleled taste that's hard to find elsewhere. The jerky comes in a resealable jar, making it convenient to store and carry with you wherever you go.

With 10 grams of protein per serving, this artfully smoked, premium beef jerky is a perfect portable protein snack that will keep you satisfied and energized on the go. It's an ideal snack for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.

This beef jerky is just one of the many varieties available from this brand. They make a range of jerky and meat sticks, including Keto-Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more. So, you can choose the one that suits your taste buds the most.

This beef jerky is crafted by the best in the industry who use only the best beef and seasonings to make it. Smoking the beef jerky over real hardwood gives it an unparalleled taste that's hard to find elsewhere. There are no shortcuts taken in the making of this beef jerky, just fire, smoke, and patience.

Handcrafted in Oregon for over 4 decades, this brand has been making mouth-watering smokehouse snacks that you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients, and real hardwood smoke. So, if you are looking for a snack that's delicious, healthy, and convenient to carry, Old Fashioned Silver Dollar Beef Jerky is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • Made from 100% premium beef, sourced fresh from the farm
  • Seasoned with simple ingredients that you could find in your pantry
  • Slow smoked over real hardwood, giving it an unparalleled taste that's hard to find elsewhere
  • Comes in a resealable jar, making it convenient to store and carry
  • Contains 10 grams of protein per serving, making it a perfect portable protein snack

2. Double Eagle Real Wood Smoked Jerky

For over 50 years, Old Trapper has been a trusted provider of high-quality meat snacks. Their commitment to using only the best ingredients and state-of-the-art processes has resulted in a full line of premium meat snacks that are distributed nationwide. Whether you're looking for beef jerky, pepperoni sticks, or turkey jerky, Old Trapper has something for everyone.

With a focus on quality and taste, Old Trapper's snacks are made with real meat and natural ingredients. Their beef jerky is made from 100% lean beef, while their turkey jerky is made from 100% turkey breast. They also offer a variety of flavors, including original, teriyaki, and hot and spicy, to satisfy any craving.

In addition to their commitment to quality, Old Trapper also values sustainability. All of their beef jerky is made from cattle that are raised without added hormones or antibiotics, and their packaging is designed to minimize waste.

Experience the flavor and quality of Old Trapper's meat snacks for yourself. Whether you're on-the-go, on a road trip, or just in need of a satisfying snack, Old Trapper has you covered.

Pros

  • Over 50 years of experience in providing high-quality meat snacks
  • Made with real meat and natural ingredients
  • Variety of flavors to choose from
  • Beef jerky made from cattle raised without added hormones or antibiotics
  • Sustainable packaging design

3. Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Beef Jerky, Old Fashioned, 10 Ounce

Satisfy your craving for protein with the Old Fashioned Beef Jerky, made with 100% premium beef and seasoned with natural ingredients that you can find in your pantry. The beef is slowly smoked over real hardwood, giving it an unmatched taste. Each serving provides 10 grams of protein, making it a perfect protein snack to keep you energized and satisfied on the go. Whether you prefer Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, or any other flavor, we have a wide range of jerky and meat sticks for you to choose from. Crafted using the best beef and seasonings fresh from the farm, we take no shortcuts in preparing our jerky. Handcrafted in Oregon for over 4 decades, our smokehouse snacks are the result of hard work, simple ingredients, and real hardwood smoke.

Looking for a high protein snack that you can take with you wherever you go? Look no further than our Old Fashioned Beef Jerky. Made from premium beef and seasoned with natural ingredients, it's a healthier choice than many other snack options. And with 10 grams of protein per serving, it will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. Our jerky is available in a range of flavors, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more. We take pride in our craft, using only the best beef and seasonings, and smoking our jerky over real hardwood to give it a distinctive flavor. Plus, our jerky is handcrafted in Oregon, where we've been making smokehouse snacks for over 40 years.

Take a bite of our Old Fashioned Beef Jerky and taste the difference. We use premium beef and real, pronounceable ingredients to season our jerky, then smoke it over real hardwood for a mouth-watering flavor. With 10 grams of protein per serving, it's a convenient and healthy snack to take with you on the go. Choose from our range of flavors, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more. Our jerky is crafted with care, using only the best beef and seasonings, and smoking it over real hardwood for an authentic taste. Handcrafted in Oregon for over 40 years, our smokehouse snacks are a testament to our commitment to quality and flavor.

Pros

  • Made with 100% premium beef
  • Seasoned with natural ingredients found in your pantry
  • Slow smoked over real hardwood for an authentic taste
  • Provides 10 grams of protein per serving
  • Available in a wide range of flavors
  • Crafted with care using the best beef and seasonings
  • Handcrafted in Oregon for over 40 years

4. Cuisinart's Vertical 30" Electric Smoker

The 548 square inch interior of this smoker provides ample space for smoking a variety of meats and vegetables. Its vertical footprint makes it a perfect size for patios and barbecue kitchens. The smoker comes with three chrome plated steel racks that can be easily removed for smoking large cuts of meat. These racks are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easy.

The smoker features an easy-to-read thermometer on the front door, allowing for accessible monitoring of the internal temperature. The heating coil provides the 1500-watt heating element, which can produce a temperature range of 100°F to 400°F that is easily controlled with a dial. The stainless steel trays hold the wood chips and water, making clean-up easy after use. It is important to note that the smoker requires wood chips when grilling.

Pros

  • Spacious 548 square inch interior provides ample space for smoking meats and vegetables
  • Vertical footprint makes it a perfect size for patios and barbecue kitchens
  • Three chrome plated steel racks can be easily removed for smoking large cuts of meat
  • Racks are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easy
  • Features an easy-to-read thermometer on the front door for accessible monitoring of the internal temperature
  • 1500-watt heating element can produce a temperature range of 100°F to 400°F that is easily controlled with a dial
  • Stainless steel trays hold the wood chips and water, making clean-up easy after use

Cons

  • – Requires wood chips when grilling

5. Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Sausages, Teriyaki, 15.2 Ounce Tall Jar, 20 Count

Enjoy delicious and authentic smokehouse snacks with this handcrafted product that has been made in Oregon for over 40 years. The makers of this product believe in the power of hard work, simple ingredients, and real hardwood smoke to create mouth-watering treats that are hard to resist.

Each snack is carefully crafted and smoked to perfection, ensuring that you get the most authentic flavor possible. Whether you're looking for a quick snack on the go or something to share with friends and family, this product is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Experience the tradition and expertise of Oregon's smokehouse snack industry with this delicious and high-quality product that is sure to become a household favorite.

Pros

  • Handcrafted in Oregon for over 40 years
  • Made with simple ingredients and real hardwood smoke
  • Carefully crafted and smoked to perfection for an authentic flavor

6. Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Sausages, Original Beef, 15.2 Ounce Tall Jar, 20 Count

The Original Beef Smoked Sausages are a delicious and satisfying snack made the old-fashioned way. Premium beef is seasoned with a unique spice blend and slow-smoked over real hardwood for an unparalleled taste. These meat sticks come in a resealable jar, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking. With 9 grams of protein per serving, they are a great source of protein to keep you energized throughout the day. Whether you prefer keto-friendly, zero sugar, old-fashioned, teriyaki, pepperoni, spicy jalapeño, sweet and spicy, or pepper, our whole range of jerky and meat sticks has something for everyone. Our products are crafted by the best using the best beef and seasonings fresh from the farm. We take no shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience to make mouth-watering smokehouse snacks that you can enjoy anytime. Handcrafted in Oregon, we have been perfecting our craft for over 4 decades, bringing you the kind of snacks that you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients, and real hardwood smoke.

Pros

  • 9 grams of protein per serving for a satisfying snack
  • Resealable jar makes it easy to take on-the-go
  • Made with premium beef and seasonings fresh from the farm
  • Slow-smoked over real hardwood for an unparalleled taste
  • Wide variety of flavors to choose from

7. Gourmet Meat Lover's Gift Ammo Can

For meat lovers, the Man Crates Beef Jerky Ammo Can is a must-have. This package contains premium beef jerky from top U.S. suppliers, ensuring that you'll get only the best. The ammo can includes three packs of beef jerky, including the Country Archer Crushed Red Pepper Beef Jerky (3 oz.), Carnivore Candy Sweet Picante Beef Jerky (3 oz.), and Field Trip Original Flavor Beef Jerky (2.15 oz.).

Aside from the beef jerky, the package also includes sensational meat sticks, such as Dusty's Original Flavor (1 oz), Che-Potle Flavor (1 oz), Habanero Flavor (1 oz), and Bar-B-Que Flavor (1 oz) Meat Sticks. The lean, savory cuts of beef are marinated to perfection and then cured until succulent and tender, taking your taste buds on a journey.

The Man Crates gift comes inside a steel, NATO-spec ammo can that is air-tight, waterproof, and virtually indestructible, allowing you to store valuables, organize equipment, or use it for decoration. This gift is perfect for men who love beef jerky and meat sticks and want a unique and unforgettable experience.

With over 1 million happy customers and thousands of verified, five-star reviews, Man Crates is a reputable company that has been featured on the Today Show, NBC, Fox, and The Wall Street Journal. They guarantee that you'll be satisfied with your purchase, and if you're not, they'll make it right and provide you with excellent service.

Pros

  • Includes premium beef jerky from top U.S. suppliers
  • Comes with sensational meat sticks in various flavors
  • Packaged in a steel, NATO-spec ammo can that is air-tight, waterproof, and virtually indestructible
  • Perfect gift for men who love beef jerky and meat sticks
  • Reputable company with over 1 million happy customers and thousands of verified, five-star reviews
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

8. Meat & Cheese Snack Bonanza: 26 Assorted Sticks!

Looking for a perfect gift for the manly man or someone who is hard to shop for? Look no further than this 26-piece snack stick gift that contains 23 wrapped meat sticks and 3 wrapped cheese sticks! This gift is perfect for any occasion, be it a graduation, birthday, Valentine’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas or even as a thank you gift. Your recipient will surely love it!

The gift comes in a cool canvas bag that has an old-timey feel to it. It contains 10 individually wrapped meat sticks, 3 meat and cheese snack bundles (6 total sticks), and 2 bulk snack stick packs (10 total sticks), which is over 1 full pound of snack sticks! This is an amazing deal for under $40, unlike other meat and jerky gifts that are unreasonably priced or include stuff you can find most anywhere.

Meat sticks and cheese snacks are amongst the best snacks for any diet. They're low in fat, super high in protein and don't include a bunch of additives and certainly aren't sugar-coated like most gifts out there. So, not only is this a great gift, but it's also good for you.

The snack sticks are proudly made in the USA under the inspection of the USDA in state-of-the-art facilities. When it comes to jerky and snack sticks, always insist on US made snacks!

Pros

  • Contains 23 wrapped meat sticks and 3 wrapped cheese sticks
  • Perfect gift for any occasion
  • Comes in a cool canvas bag
  • Great value for under $40
  • Low in fat and high in protein
  • Proudly made in the USA

9. Protein-Packed Gluten-Free Beef Jerky Sampler

Indulge in the ultimate beef jerky experience with the Righteous Felon Beef Jerky Variety Pack. This pack features a selection of beef jerky and meat sticks that are perfect for everyday snacking, gifting, or as stocking stuffers. The pack is gluten-free, except for the Victorious BIG variant, and is made with all-natural ingredients that are free from artificial flavors and colors.

Unlike other high protein snacks that are packed with questionable chemicals, Righteous Felon keto beef jerky snack packs are made with simple, locally sourced, and hormone-free ingredients. The beef is sourced from the Roseda Black Angus Farm in Maryland and an all-natural Iowa farm. Each batch of jerky is made with great care in small batches to ensure the best possible taste and texture.

With bold and innovative flavors, Righteous Felon has reinvented the jerky and meat stick game. Each pack features mouth-watering jerky seasoning that brings out the familiar American flavor of dried meat. These protein-packed snacks are perfect for addressing your hunger pangs without the need for fancy snacks or trail mix.

Overall, the Righteous Felon Beef Jerky Variety Pack is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy healthy, high-protein snacks that are free from artificial flavors and chemicals. Whether you're looking for an everyday snack, a gift for someone special, or a stocking stuffer, this pack is sure to impress.

Pros

  • Gluten-free and made with all-natural ingredients
  • Locally sourced and hormone-free beef
  • Bold and innovative flavors
  • Protein-packed snacks for addressing hunger pangs

10. Jerky Variety Pack – Easter Basket Must Have!

Jack Link's Beef Jerky is the perfect snack to keep you energized throughout the day. This pack features 15 bags of 1.25 ounces of beef jerky, including 6 Original, 5 Teriyaki, and 4 Peppered flavors. The single-serve bags make it easy to snack on-the-go while running errands or packing your family's lunch boxes. Even your little ones will love the delicious taste.

This beef jerky is made from lean cuts of 100% beef, ensuring a good source of protein. With only 6 grams of fat per serving, it is also a healthy choice for snacking. There is no added MSG, except for what naturally occurs in soy sauce, hydrolyzed corn protein, and yeast extract.

Jack Link's Beef Jerky is known for its full-on flavor. Whether you prefer the classic Original taste, the unique blend of spices found in our Peppered variety, or the fusion of East and West in our Teriyaki flavor, you can be sure that each bite is packed with flavor.

Experience the American tradition of hard work, fun, and quality products with Jack Link's Beef Jerky. Rip open a bag and savor the taste of this family business's success.

Pros

  • Good source of protein to keep you energized throughout the day
  • Variety pack includes Original, Teriyaki, and Peppered flavors
  • Single-serve bags make it easy to snack on-the-go
  • Made from lean cuts of 100% beef with only 6 grams of fat per serving
  • No added MSG, except for what naturally occurs in soy sauce, hydrolyzed corn protein, and yeast extract
  • Packed full of flavor to satisfy your cravings

Best Meat For Beef Jerky In Smoker FAQs

Can I use any type of wood chips in my smoker for beef jerky?

Yes, you can use different types of wood chips in your smoker for beef jerky. However, it is important to note that different types of wood impart different flavors to the meat. For example, fruit woods such as apple and cherry produce a mild, sweet flavor while hickory and mesquite produce a stronger, smokier flavor.

When it comes to beef jerky, it's recommended to use hardwoods such as oak, hickory or mesquite for a bold, smoky flavor. These types of wood chips burn hotter and produce more smoke, which is ideal for beef jerky. It's important to soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using them in the smoker to prevent them from burning too quickly.

It's also important to choose quality wood chips that are free from chemicals and additives, as these can affect the flavor of the meat. Ultimately, the type of wood chips you use will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile you want to achieve.

How long should I smoke the meat for beef jerky?

The length of time that you should smoke your meat for beef jerky can vary depending on a few factors, such as the thickness of the meat and the type of smoker that you are using. Generally, it is recommended that you smoke your beef jerky for at least 4-6 hours, but some people prefer to smoke it for up to 12 hours for a more intense flavor. It is important to keep an eye on your meat while it is smoking and make sure that it does not dry out too much or become too tough to eat. You can also experiment with different wood chips or flavors to customize the taste of your beef jerky. Overall, the key is to find the right balance between smoking time and moisture retention to achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your beef jerky.

Should I marinate the meat before smoking it for beef jerky?

Yes, marinating the meat before smoking it for beef jerky can add a lot of flavor to the finished product. The marinade can help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a variety of seasonings and spices. However, it's important to choose a marinade that is appropriate for the cut of meat you are using and that complements the flavors you want to achieve. Some popular marinade ingredients for beef jerky include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and various spices. It's also important to note that while marinating can enhance the flavor of your beef jerky, it's not the only factor that determines the final taste. Other factors such as the type of wood used for smoking and the temperature and duration of the smoking process will also play a role in the overall flavor of your beef jerky.

What is the best cut of meat for beef jerky in a smoker?

Choosing the right cut of meat is crucial when it comes to making beef jerky in a smoker. The best cut of meat for beef jerky in a smoker is lean and has little to no fat. The ideal cut of meat for beef jerky is the top round, which is a lean cut from the hindquarters of the cow. Other cuts that can be used include the eye of round and the bottom round. These cuts are lean and have minimal fat content, which makes them perfect for beef jerky.

When choosing the cut of meat, it is important to trim off any visible fat and slice the meat against the grain. This will help to make the beef jerky tender and easier to chew. Once the meat has been sliced, it can be seasoned with your preferred spice mix and then marinated for a few hours. After marinating, the beef slices can be placed in a smoker and cooked until they are dry and chewy.

In conclusion, the best cut of meat for beef jerky in a smoker is the top round, followed by other lean cuts like the eye of round and bottom round. With the right cut of meat, seasoning, and smoking techniques, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful homemade beef jerky.

What temperature should the smoker be set at for beef jerky?

The ideal temperature for making beef jerky in a smoker is between 160°F to 175°F. This temperature range helps to dehydrate the meat without cooking it. The primary goal of smoking beef jerky is to extract moisture from the meat, thereby making it shelf-stable and flavorful. Cooking the meat at a higher temperature may result in a dry and tough jerky, which is not desirable.

To achieve the right temperature, you'll need to monitor the temperature using a thermometer. It's important to note that different smokers may have different optimal temperature ranges. Therefore, it's essential to consult your smoker's manual to determine the recommended temperature for making beef jerky. You can also experiment with different temperature ranges to find the perfect temperature that works best for you.

Additionally, the cooking time also varies depending on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of dryness. Generally, beef jerky takes around 4-6 hours to smoke fully. However, it's vital to check the meat regularly to ensure it doesn't overcook or burn. With the right temperature and cooking time, you'll end up with delicious beef jerky that's perfect for snacking or as a protein-rich addition to your meals.

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