20 Spicy Beef Jerky Recipes for Dehydrators You’ll Love

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March 31, 2025

Are you ready to level up your snack game with some seriously delicious and spicy beef jerky? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing our top 20 favorite spicy beef jerky recipes that are perfect for dehydrators. From classic teriyaki flavors to bold and spicy options, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering collection.

From the comfort of your own home, you can create a variety of flavorful beef jerky snacks using your trusty dehydrator. Say goodbye to store-bought jerky that’s often filled with preservatives and artificial flavorings. With these recipes, you’ll be able to make healthy, tasty, and spicy beef jerky that will satisfy your cravings.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of spicy beef jerky and explore 20 unique recipes that will take your snacking game to the next level. From sweet and tangy pineapple flavors to bold and smoky chipotle options, there’s something for every palate. So grab your dehydrator and get ready to spice things up!

Classic Teriyaki Beef Jerky

Classic Teriyaki Beef Jerky
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this classic teriyaki beef jerky recipe. This chewy snack is perfect for on-the-go or as a healthy snack option.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Place beef strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
7. Cut into bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Spicy Sriracha Beef Jerky

Spicy Sriracha Beef Jerky
Kick up your snacking game with this bold and spicy beef jerky recipe, infused with the addictive heat of Sriracha sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (such as top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Place the beef strips on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Honey Garlic Beef Jerky

Honey Garlic Beef Jerky
Transform lean beef into a tasty and addictive snack with this simple recipe that combines the richness of honey and garlic. Perfect for on-the-go fuel or as a quick pick-me-up, these strips of beef jerky are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix until they are evenly coated.
4. Place the beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dry in the oven for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Smoky Chipotle Beef Jerky

Smoky Chipotle Beef Jerky
Transform your snack game with this sweet and smoky beef jerky recipe, infused with the bold flavor of chipotle peppers.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, water, smoked paprika, chipotle pepper powder, and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Peppered Black Pepper Beef Jerky

Peppered Black Pepper Beef Jerky
A classic beef jerky recipe with a twist – the addition of black pepper gives this savory snack a bold and aromatic flavor. Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or top round)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dehydrate in the oven for 3-4 hours or until desired level of dryness is reached.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Beef Jerky

Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Beef Jerky
Add a twist to the classic beef jerky recipe with this sweet and tangy pineapple version. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a unique addition to your next camping trip.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Maple Bourbon Beef Jerky

Maple Bourbon Beef Jerky
Sweet and savory, this Maple Bourbon Beef Jerky recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the warmth of maple syrup to create a unique and delicious snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to elevate their jerky game!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or rump), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Remove beef from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Korean BBQ Beef Jerky

Korean BBQ Beef Jerky
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this sweet and savory Korean BBQ Beef Jerky recipe! With the bold flavors of Gochujang and soy sauce, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (sirloin or top round), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, Gochujang, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Place the marinated beef on wire racks set over baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
5. Dehydrate in the oven for 3-4 hours or until desired level of dryness is reached.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Jalapeño Lime Beef Jerky

Jalapeño Lime Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this bold and tangy jalapeño lime beef jerky recipe. The perfect blend of spicy and savory, this treat is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 jalapeños, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°F (or use a dehydrator).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove beef from the marinade and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Garlic Parmesan Beef Jerky

Garlic Parmesan Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this savory recipe that combines the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese with tender beef jerky. Perfect for a quick energy boost or as a satisfying snack on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (such as top round or flank steak)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano.
3. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove beef from marinade and place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the beef.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until beef reaches desired level of dryness.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Sweet Chili Beef Jerky

Sweet Chili Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe that’s perfect for on-the-go munching!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Mesquite Smoked Beef Jerky

Mesquite Smoked Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of mesquite smoke with the tenderness of beef.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup mesquite smoke chips (or liquid smoke)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 160°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove beef from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray.
5. Smoke beef for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
6. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with mesquite smoke chips (or liquid smoke).
7. Continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until jerky is dry and slightly caramelized.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Wasabi Soy Beef Jerky

Wasabi Soy Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this bold and flavorful beef jerky recipe, infused with the pungency of wasabi and the savory depth of soy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or rump), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, wasabi paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the marinated beef strips out in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Buffalo Ranch Beef Jerky

Buffalo Ranch Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory buffalo ranch beef jerky recipe. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a tasty treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake the beef for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Once cooked, remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing into strips.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Cajun Spiced Beef Jerky

Cajun Spiced Beef Jerky
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory beef jerky recipe. This Cajun-inspired treat is perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a flavorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, Cajun seasoning blend, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix until they are fully coated.
4. Place the marinated beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray.
5. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Applewood Smoked Beef Jerky

Applewood Smoked Beef Jerky
Savor the rich flavor of smoked beef jerky infused with the warmth of applewood smoke.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (applewood flavor)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 160°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Place the beef strips in a single layer on your smoker’s grates.
6. Smoke the jerky for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Ginger Sesame Beef Jerky

Ginger Sesame Beef Jerky
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy snack with this simple recipe that combines the richness of beef jerky with the warmth of ginger and the nuttiness of sesame. Perfect for on-the-go or as a post-workout treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade and place on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired dryness.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into strips.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Balsamic Glazed Beef Jerky

Balsamic Glazed Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make Balsamic Glazed Beef Jerky recipe, perfect for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat. The combination of tender beef, tangy balsamic glaze, and a hint of sweetness will have you hooked!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Thai Peanut Beef Jerky

Thai Peanut Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy Thai-inspired beef jerky recipe. A perfect blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, chili flakes, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Hot Honey Mustard Beef Jerky

Hot Honey Mustard Beef Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe, infused with the bold flavors of hot honey and tangy mustard.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup hot honey (or substitute with a mix of honey and hot sauce)
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly.
4. Place the marinated beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dry in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Enjoy your delicious and addictive Hot Honey Mustard Beef Jerky!

Summary

Get ready to spice up your snack game with these 20 mouth-watering beef jerky recipes for dehydrators! From classic teriyaki to spicy sriracha, and from sweet chili to hot honey mustard, there’s a flavor profile to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a fan of smoky chipotle or tangy pineapple, these recipes will guide you in creating the perfect beef jerky at home.

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