Homemade Jerky Recipe Families Have Made for Generations

For many families, jerky isn’t just a snack it’s part of a tradition passed down through the years. Long before it was something you’d see on store shelves, it was made at home with simple ingredients and methods that worked. The recipe may have changed slightly from one household to another, but the heart of it has always been the same: preserving meat in a way that’s both practical and delicious.

What makes homemade jerky special is the sense of connection it carries. Parents teach their kids, grandparents share their tweaks, and every batch tells a story. Some families prefer beef, others venison, but the process of slicing, seasoning, and drying remains a shared ritual. It’s less about fancy equipment and more about patience, care, and a touch of creativity.

Today, many people are bringing back these old recipes, enjoying not just the taste but also the tradition. Making jerky at home gives you control over the flavors and ingredients while keeping alive a practice that has stood the test of time. It’s one of those simple things that turns into much more when it’s passed from one generation to the next.

Chicken Jerky

Chicken jerky is a lean, protein-packed snack that’s lighter than traditional beef versions. It’s easy to season with your favorite spices or marinades, making it versatile for both savory and slightly sweet flavors. Perfect for on-the-go energy, it’s also a great option if you’re looking for something lower in fat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Jerky

Buffalo Sauce Beef Jerky

This recipe adds a bold twist to classic beef jerky by using buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy kick. It’s great for those who like a little heat with their snacks. The marinade infuses the beef strips with flavor before drying, giving you jerky that’s both chewy and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Sauce Beef Jerky

Ground Beef Jerky

Ground beef jerky is a simple option if you don’t have whole cuts of beef on hand. It’s usually made by pressing seasoned ground beef into strips or sheets before dehydrating. The result is a chewy, rich snack that’s easy to customize with different spice blends.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Jerky

Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Making beef jerky in the air fryer is quick and convenient, especially if you don’t own a dehydrator. It gives you evenly dried strips with less waiting time. Plus, you can easily experiment with marinades since batches are small and easy to adjust.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Eggplant Jerky

Eggplant jerky is a plant-based alternative that’s smoky, chewy, and full of flavor. Sliced thin and marinated, the eggplant dries into a snack with a texture similar to traditional jerky. It’s a fun way to enjoy a vegetarian-friendly version of this classic.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Jerky

Homemade Smoked Beef Jerky

This version brings in the deep, smoky flavor that makes jerky extra special. By using a smoker, the beef takes on a rich taste that can’t be replicated with just seasoning. It’s perfect if you enjoy traditional, hearty-style jerky at home.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Smoked Beef Jerky

Chicken Chips Jerky

Chicken chips jerky is thin, crispy, and protein-rich, almost like a cross between chips and jerky. They’re light but still packed with flavor, making them a great snack alternative to fried snacks. You can season them simply with salt or spice them up for variety.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chips Jerky

How to Make Beef Jerky IN the Oven

If you don’t have special equipment, making beef jerky in the oven is one of the easiest methods. With low heat and proper airflow, you can dry out beef strips to create a chewy, flavorful snack. It’s beginner-friendly and works with many marinades.
Get the Recipe: How to Make Beef Jerky IN the Oven

Beef Jerky in the Dehydrator

The dehydrator is the classic tool for making jerky, giving consistent results with minimal effort. It slowly removes moisture while keeping the flavors concentrated. This method is reliable and works for beef, chicken, or even veggie-based jerky.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky in the Dehydrator