When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Meat To Use For Beef Jerky (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a tasty and protein-packed snack to fuel your adventures on the go, beef jerky is a great option. But not all jerky is created equal, and the type of meat used can make a big difference in taste, texture, and nutrition. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best meat for beef jerky.

First, consider the cut of meat. While beef is the most common choice, different cuts can have different fat content and muscle texture. Leaner cuts like top round or bottom round are often used for jerky because they're easier to slice thinly and have less fat to spoil. However, some people prefer fattier cuts like brisket for a juicier and chewier jerky. It's important to choose high-quality, fresh meat to avoid any safety concerns or unfavorable flavors.

Secondly, think about any additional ingredients or flavors you may want to add. Some beef jerky recipes call for marinades or spices to enhance the taste of the meat. If you're looking for a specific flavor profile, like teriyaki or spicy, choose a meat that will complement those flavors. Keep in mind that different meats may react differently to seasonings, so do your research or experiment to find the best combination.

Are you tired of bland and boring snacks? Do you want a high-protein snack for your next outdoor adventure? Beef jerky might be the perfect solution – but only if you choose the right type of meat. In this article, we'll explore the factors you need to consider when selecting meat for beef jerky, from cut to flavor. Keep reading to learn how to make the most delicious and nutritious jerky ever!

10 Best Meat To Use For Beef Jerky

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for dehydrating a variety of foods such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms using high-heat circulation.
2
The product is ideal for dehydrating various types of food such as meat, fruit, and vegetables for at-home use.
3
The product is ideal for dehydrating food items such as meat, vegetables, fruits, and herbs using digital control and stainless steel material.
4
Ideal snack for those who enjoy smoky, savory beef jerky with a touch of sweetness and handmade craftsmanship.
5
The product is ideal for making various flavors of jerky easily with a seasoning and cure kit.
6
This product is ideal for dehydrating and preserving beef jerky, meat, fruit, and vegetables through a digital timer and temperature control.
7
The product is ideal for dehydrating meat, fruits, and vegetables with a digital timer and temperature control.
8
This product is ideal for those looking for a protein-packed, hand-crafted meat snack made with real beef brisket.
9
It is an ideal protein snack with low carbs and high protein content, perfect for on-the-go or post-workout.
10
It is an ideal meaty snack for individuals following a keto or paleo diet, seeking gluten-free and non-GMO options.
This product is ideal for dehydrating a variety of foods such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms using high-heat circulation.
The product is ideal for dehydrating various types of food such as meat, fruit, and vegetables for at-home use.
The product is ideal for dehydrating food items such as meat, vegetables, fruits, and herbs using digital control and stainless steel material.
Ideal snack for those who enjoy smoky, savory beef jerky with a touch of sweetness and handmade craftsmanship.
The product is ideal for making various flavors of jerky easily with a seasoning and cure kit.
This product is ideal for dehydrating and preserving beef jerky, meat, fruit, and vegetables through a digital timer and temperature control.
The product is ideal for dehydrating meat, fruits, and vegetables with a digital timer and temperature control.
This product is ideal for those looking for a protein-packed, hand-crafted meat snack made with real beef brisket.
It is an ideal protein snack with low carbs and high protein content, perfect for on-the-go or post-workout.
It is an ideal meaty snack for individuals following a keto or paleo diet, seeking gluten-free and non-GMO options.

1. Stackable Dehydrator – For Flavorful Dried Delights!

The Professional Food Dehydrator is a versatile and efficient electric appliance that can preserve a wide variety of foods. It simplifies meal preparation by producing nutritious food with minimal effort. With this dehydrator, you can prevent food wastage and enjoy healthy snacks anytime.

This item features an easy-to-use one-button operation that simplifies food preparation. You can select the dehydrating option with a single click. Additionally, it has a temperature control system that can reach a maximum of 180°F.

The dehydrator comes with five removable stackable food trays that can be used to dry food without the appliance. These trays are easy to clean, and so is the dehydrating machine.

Dehydrated foods are a great source of nutrition that are free from additives, preservatives, and excess sugar and salt. They can also provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a valuable addition to any diet.

Our food dehydrator has been scientifically tested to increase the shelf life of food by utilizing high heat circulation that travels evenly through each tray. This process effectively removes moisture content, resulting in shrunken but nutrient-dense food that retains 97% of its original vitamins and minerals.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use one-button operation
  • Temperature control system with a maximum of 180°F
  • Five removable stackable food trays
  • Dehydrated foods are a healthy snack option
  • Scientifically tested to increase the shelf life of food

2. Dehydrate With Eaze: High-Heat, 5-Tray Machine.

Enjoy healthy and nutritious snacks anytime with this multi-tier electric food dehydrator. It is designed to quickly and efficiently remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, meat, beef jerky, and other foods, preserving their flavor, nutrients, and texture for longer storage times. With its easy-to-use one-button operation, you can dehydrate your food with just a click. The temperature control system allows for a maximum of 180°F, ensuring that your food is evenly and thoroughly dehydrated.

Dehydrated foods are a great healthy snack option as they are free from additives, preservatives, and excess sugar and salt. They can also be a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. By drying your own fruits, vegetables, and meats, you can easily preserve food and reduce waste, saving money in the long run.

This food dehydrator uses high heat circulation that evenly travels through each tray, effectively removing moisture content. As a result, you get shrunken but nutrient-dense food that retains 97% of its original vitamins and minerals. Enjoy the benefits of healthy snacking and cost-effective food preservation with this efficient and easy-to-use food dehydrator.

Pros

  • Efficiently removes moisture from fruits, vegetables, meat, beef jerky, and other foods
  • Preserves flavor, nutrients, and texture for longer storage times
  • Easy-to-use one-button operation
  • Temperature control system allows for a maximum of 180°F
  • Dehydrated foods are free from additives, preservatives, and excess sugar and salt
  • Retains 97% of original vitamins and minerals

3. Ivation Commercial Food Dehydrator: Dry With Ease!

Make delicious and healthy snacks with ease using this rear-mounted automatic fan dehydrator! With 600W of heating power, the fan circulates warm air to ensure your food is evenly dried from all angles. The six spacious trays measure 13” x 12”, providing ample space to preserve your favorite beef jerky, fruit, snacks, vegetables, bread, herbs, dog treats, and more for long-lasting superior health benefits. You can remove one or more trays at a time to make room for especially thick slices if needed.

The dehydrator is made with a stainless steel body and trays, ensuring that all parts are BPA-free, making them safe for household and commercial use and keeping your food free from harmful toxins. It has a digital temperature and timer, with a temperature range of 95ºF to 167ºF. You can set the timer to automatically shut off your dehydrator at the designated time in 30-minute increments for up to 24 hours at a time. The stainless steel trays and the drip tray at the bottom of the unit are all removable, dishwasher-safe, and easy to clean for your convenience.

Pros

  • Rear-mounted automatic fan ensures even drying from all angles
  • Six spacious trays provide ample space for food preservation
  • Stainless steel body and trays are BPA-free and safe for household and commercial use
  • Digital temperature and timer allows for precise control over the dehydrating process
  • Trays and drip tray are removable and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning

4. Fire-Grilled Singapore Beef Jerky: Original Flavor (12oz.)

If you're looking for a delicious, high-protein snack, you can't go wrong with Fragrant Jerky's Singapore-style fire-grilled Bak Kwa. Made using a three-generation-old family recipe, this sweet and salty semi-dried meat snack is a popular treat in the Asia-Pacific region.

Using traditional age-old slow-drying techniques and a labor-intensive process, the meat is then slowly fire-grilled by hand to perfection for that bold BBQ taste. The original flavor beef jerky has a natural smoky BBQ flavor from the fire-grilling process and is made using 100% natural ingredients that are GMO-free. The beef jerky is made from fresh USDA-inspected whole cuts of the extra lean Angus Beef eye of round, ensuring the highest quality product.

Each order is freshly grilled to order and shipped by Expedited Priority Mail to ensure the finest quality. The jerky is never prepackaged and never stored in a warehouse for weeks or months. Fragrant Jerky grills then ships your orders within 48 hours during business days, and they will arrive in 2 to 5 business days. Their products are made fresh daily at their USDA/FSIS-inspected commercial kitchen facility in Los Angeles, so you can be confident you're getting a high-quality, fresh product.

Fragrant Jerky's Singapore-style fire-grilled Bak Kwa has been voted #1 pork jerky in the world and has won three Los Angeles Times "Handmade Gift" and food category awards. Whether you're looking for a tasty snack or want to add some flavor to your favorite instant noodles, sandwiches, and more, Fragrant Jerky's Singapore-style fire-grilled Bak Kwa is the perfect choice.

Pros

  • Made using a three-generation-old family recipe
  • Slow dried and slow fire-grilled by hand for bold BBQ taste
  • 100% natural ingredients that are GMO-free
  • Made from fresh USDA-inspected whole cuts of the extra lean Angus Beef eye of round
  • Freshly grilled to order and shipped by Expedited Priority Mail to ensure the finest quality
  • Products are made fresh daily at a USDA/FSIS-inspected commercial kitchen facility in Los Angeles
  • Voted #1 pork jerky in the world and has won three Los Angeles Times "Handmade Gift" and food category awards

5. Ps Seasoning Jerky Seasoning Cure Kit – Easy To Use Jerky Making Kit – Variety Pack

Experience the mouth-watering taste of homemade jerky with PS Seasoning Jerky Cure and Seasoning Kit. This award-winning seasoning kit is perfect for anyone who wants to make delicious jerky at home with minimum effort. With thousands of satisfied customers, it has been proven to deliver consistently amazing results every time.

Enjoy the classic flavors of Cracked Pepper & Garlic, Honey BBQ, and Mesquite with this crowd-favorite kit. Share this delicious treat with everyone in the family and impress your guests with your homemade jerky.

Use this jerky seasoning kit for a variety of meats including beef, pork, deer, chicken, turkey, fish or wild game. Whether you prefer whole muscle jerky or ground & formed jerky strips using a jerky gun, this kit has got you covered.

No more guesswork with this jerky kit! Each PS Seasoning Jerky Kit includes pre-measured seasoning and jerky cure for up to 15 lbs. of meat. The spice kit contains 3 packets of each seasoning and cure, pre-measured for 5 lbs. of meat with easy-to-follow instructions.

There are endless possibilities with PS Jerky Kits! You can make jerky using an oven, smoker, or dehydrator. You can use this kit as beef jerky seasoning, deer jerky seasoning, or fill a jerky gun with ground beef to make beef sticks.

Pros

  • Easy to use kit for making delicious jerky at home
  • Consistently amazing results with proven track record of thousands of satisfied customers
  • Classic flavors of Cracked Pepper & Garlic, Honey BBQ, and Mesquite
  • Suitable for a variety of meats including beef, pork, deer, chicken, turkey, fish, or wild game
  • No guesswork with pre-measured seasoning and jerky cure for up to 15 lbs. of meat
  • Can be used to make whole muscle jerky or ground & formed jerky strips using a jerky gun
  • Endless possibilities with the kit; can be used as beef jerky seasoning, deer jerky seasoning, or to make beef sticks

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer more unique or customized flavors

6. Nutrichef 6-Tier Digital Dehydrator For Healthful Snacks

The NutriChef Electric Preserver is a highly efficient and multi-functional countertop food dehydrator that helps preserve varieties of food. It is an easy-to-use device that produces nutritious food with very simple preparation. With this electric food preserver, users can prevent food from spoiling and going to waste. The device comes with 6 tiered dryer trays, 10 food-grade stainless steel trays or dryer racks, a mesh screen, and a fruit roll sheet. The trays are removable and easy to clean.

This electric preserver uses electronic probe and temperature control for food preservation. With a temperature range of 95-167°F, it can dehydrate and preserve meat, fruits, and vegetables, making organic healthy snacks like beef jerky, potato chips, and kale chips. The device is equipped with a touch-control LED display, auto shut-off, memory function, and switch door magnetic induction. The glass door and built-in rear-mounted motor along with an internal fan prevent the appliance from overheating.

The NutriChef Electric Preserver uses 360° hot air circulation that effectively dries food by removing moisture content. It shrinks the food but still retains 97% of vitamins and minerals, which helps increase the shelf life of food. It is scientifically tested and proven to be highly effective for food preservation.

Pros

  • Easy to use and highly efficient
  • Can preserve varieties of food
  • Produces nutritious food with simple preparation
  • Comes with 6 tiered dryer trays, 10 food-grade stainless steel trays or dryer racks, a mesh screen, and a fruit roll sheet
  • Removable trays that are easy to clean
  • Equipped with electronic probe and temperature control
  • Has a temperature range of 95-167°F
  • Can make organic healthy snacks like beef jerky, potato chips, and kale chips
  • Touch-control LED display, auto shut-off, memory function, and switch door magnetic induction
  • Glass door and built-in rear-mounted motor along with an internal fan prevent the appliance from overheating
  • Uses 360° hot air circulation that effectively dries food by removing moisture content
  • Retains 97% of vitamins and minerals in the food, which helps increase the shelf life of food
  • Scientifically tested and proven to be highly effective for food preservation

Cons

  • – May be a bit bulky for some kitchens
  • – May take up more space on the countertop

7. Nutrichef's Multi-Tier Food Dehydrator – Compact & Efficient!

The NutriChef Electric Preserver is a must-have for any kitchen. This multi-tiered countertop electric food dehydrator is designed to preserve a variety of foods with ease. It produces nutritious food with very simple preparation, helping prevent food from spoiling and going to waste. The dehydrator comes with four food grade stainless steel trays that can also be used to dry food without the use of the dehydrator.

The trays are removable, making them easy to clean along with the dehydrator machine. The temperature control uses an electronic probe and temperature control for food preservation between 95-158°F. It dehydrates and preserves meat, like the famous beef jerky, and produces organic healthy snacks by dehydrating fruits/vegetables to make potato/kale chips, etc.

The NutriChef Electric Preserver is equipped with a touch control LED display, auto shut-off, memory function, and a switch door magnetic induction. It features a glass door along with a built-in rear-mounted motor and an internal fan designed to prevent the appliance from overheating. The 360° hot air circulation effectively dries food by removing moisture content. It shrinks the food but still retains 97% of vitamins and minerals. Scientifically tested to increase food shelf life with high heat circulation.

Overall, the NutriChef Electric Preserver is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to preserve and dehydrate their food. With its versatile features and easy-to-use design, it is the perfect addition to any kitchen.

Pros

  • Multi-tiered countertop electric food dehydrator that preserves a variety of foods
  • Produces nutritious food with very simple preparation
  • Comes with four food grade stainless steel trays that can also be used to dry food without the use of the dehydrator
  • Easy-to-clean removable trays
  • Equipped with a touch control LED display, auto shut-off, memory function, and a switch door magnetic induction
  • Features a glass door along with a built-in rear-mounted motor and an internal fan designed to prevent the appliance from overheating
  • Scientifically tested to increase food shelf life with high heat circulation

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with limited counter space

8. Crafted Teriyaki Brisket Jerky: Protein-Packed Snack

Indulge in the full-bodied flavor of the chef crafted beef jerky that is smoked to perfection, giving it a tender and chewy texture. Made from premium cuts of beef in a state-of-the-art facility, this beef jerky provides an authentic jerky experience. It is an instant favorite for all snack lovers, and it can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. You can serve it to your guests and add it to your homemade charcuterie boards as a sure winner. Moreover, this protein-filled snack is considerably lower in fat than any other meat-based snack, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts. Certified kosher for Passover and year-round use, you can enjoy this delicious snack with peace of mind.

Pros

  • Made from premium cuts of beef for an authentic jerky experience
  • Smoked to perfection for a tender and chewy texture
  • Considerably lower in fat than any other meat-based snack
  • Certified kosher for Passover and year-round use
  • A protein-filled snack that is perfect for fitness enthusiasts
  • An instant favorite for all snack lovers

9. Protein-Packed Jack Links Beef Strip Snacks

Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is an excellent source of protein that comes from lean cuts of 100% premium beef. Each beef steak is marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices, giving it a full and savory flavor you're sure to crave. This product is based on Jack Link's great-grandfather's old-world recipes, ensuring that every bite is a premium slice of beef seasoned with that special blend of spices and slow smoked over hardwoods.

With 11 grams of protein per serving, this beef steak is the perfect protein snack to take with you wherever you go. No refrigeration is required, making it easy to stick a steak in your backpack, your back pocket, your jacket pocket, or wherever you can conveniently grab it when hunger strikes. Whether you're at work, at home, on the trails or at the lake, Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is the perfect snack to keep you fueled and satisfied.

As the top selling beef jerky brand, Jack Link's is a taste of the American tradition that made this family business a success. With hard work, fun and quality products, Jack Link's has become a household name. Its protein snacks are the fuel for people to feed their wild side.

Pros

  • Made with 100% premium beef
  • Marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices for full flavor
  • An excellent source of protein with 11 grams per serving
  • No refrigeration required, making it easy to take on-the-go
  • Based on Jack Link's great-grandfather's old-world recipes
  • The top selling beef jerky brand

10. Grass Fed Beef Snack Sticks – Keto & Paleo Approved!

Looking for a healthy, on-the-go snack that is packed with protein? Look no further than Clean Snack meat sticks! Each 1.15oz stick contains 9g of protein and only 90 calories, making them a perfect snack for busy days. These jerky sticks are also low in sodium, fat, and carbs, and are sugar-free.

Clean Snack meat sticks are perfect for anyone following a specific diet. They are keto-friendly, Whole30-approved, and paleo. They are also non-GMO and certified gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, all of the ingredients in these sticks are all-natural and real, and are free of dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, and sugar.

When it comes to the quality of the beef, Clean Snack has got you covered. Their beef is 100% grass-fed and finished, certified humane, and nitrate and nitrite-free. This ensures that you are getting a high-quality protein source that is ethically sourced and free from harmful additives.

Overall, Clean Snack meat sticks are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a convenient and healthy snack option. With their high protein content, low calorie count, and various diet approvals, they are a versatile snack that can fit into almost any lifestyle.

Pros

  • High in protein (9g per stick)
  • Low in sodium, fat, and carbs
  • Sugar-free
  • Keto-friendly, Whole30-approved, and paleo
  • Non-GMO and certified gluten-free
  • All natural, real ingredients
  • Free of dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, and sugar
  • Beef is 100% grass-fed and finished, certified humane, and nitrate and nitrite-free

Best Meat To Use For Beef Jerky FAQs

Can I use ground beef to make beef jerky?

Yes, you can definitely use ground beef to make beef jerky. However, it's important to note that the texture and taste will be different than if you were to use sliced beef. When using ground beef, you'll need to add binding agents and seasonings to help the meat stick together and enhance the flavor. Some common binding agents used in homemade beef jerky recipes include egg whites, breadcrumbs, and cornstarch. Additionally, you'll want to make sure that the ground beef is lean, as excess fat can cause the jerky to spoil quickly. Once you've mixed together your seasoned ground beef, you can shape it into strips or use a jerky gun to extrude the meat into the desired shape. Finally, you'll need to dehydrate the beef jerky until it is dry and chewy. With a little practice, you can create delicious and unique beef jerky using ground beef.

How long should I marinate the meat before making beef jerky?

Marinating the meat is an essential step in the process of making beef jerky. The duration of marination depends on personal preferences and the recipe you are following. Generally, marinating the meat for at least 8-24 hours is recommended to infuse the meat with flavors and tenderize it. However, some recipes may require longer marination periods, up to 48 hours.

It is important to note that the duration of marination is not the only factor that determines the quality of beef jerky. The cut of meat, thickness, and type of seasoning used also play significant roles in the final product. It is essential to follow the recipe instructions carefully and adjust the marination period based on the desired level of flavor and texture.

Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the meat is properly stored during marination. It should be placed in a container and kept refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth. By following the right marination techniques, you can create delicious and flavorful beef jerky that is perfect for snacking or as a protein-rich addition to your meals.

Should I use lean or fatty meat for making beef jerky?

When it comes to making beef jerky, the type of meat you choose can make a big difference in the final product. While both lean and fatty meat can be used, the leaner the meat, the better. This is because fat can become rancid during the drying process, leading to spoilage and an unpleasant taste.

Lean meat, such as top round or flank steak, is a better choice for making beef jerky. These cuts have less fat and connective tissue, making them easier to slice thinly and dry out evenly. Additionally, lean meat will result in a chewier, more authentic jerky texture.

That being said, a small amount of fat can add flavor to the jerky. If you prefer a slightly richer taste, you can choose a cut with a bit of marbling or add some fat in the form of oil or bacon grease to the marinade. However, be sure to keep the fat content low to avoid spoilage.

Overall, lean meat is the best choice for making beef jerky. It will result in a tastier, longer-lasting product that you can enjoy for weeks to come.

What is the best cut of meat to use for beef jerky?

When it comes to making beef jerky, the cut of meat used can greatly affect the overall taste and texture of the final product. The best cut of meat for beef jerky is lean, low in fat and easy to slice into thin strips. Sirloin, flank steak and round roast are all popular choices for making beef jerky. Of these, the round roast is considered the most ideal as it is the leanest and easiest to slice into thin strips. Additionally, the round roast has a mild flavor that can easily absorb marinade and seasoning. It is important to note that whichever cut of meat is chosen, it should be sliced against the grain to ensure a tender chew. It is also recommended to remove any visible fat before slicing the meat to prevent the jerky from spoiling. Overall, the round roast is the best choice for making delicious and flavorful beef jerky.

What is the ideal thickness for slicing meat for beef jerky?

The ideal thickness for slicing meat for beef jerky can vary depending on personal preference, but generally, it should be between 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch thick. Thin slices will dry out faster and produce a crispier texture, while thicker slices will be chewier and take longer to dry. It's important to slice the meat against the grain to ensure tenderness and to remove any excess fat. A sharp knife or a meat slicer can be used to achieve consistent thickness. It's also recommended to partially freeze the meat for easier slicing. Experiment with different thicknesses and drying times to find the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your beef jerky. Properly sliced and dried beef jerky can be a delicious and healthy snack option.

Leave a Comment