Are you tired of boring, store-bought jerky that lacks flavor and excitement? Get ready to transform your snacking experience with this mouthwatering Onion Ground Beef Jerky recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and have you craving more! This homemade jerky isn't just a snack—it's a flavor-packed adventure that combines the rich, savory goodness of ground beef with the sweet, aromatic punch of onions, creating a protein-packed treat that's perfect for hiking, road trips, or just satisfying your midday hunger pangs.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with finely chopped onion, ensuring even distribution throughout the meat mixture.
- Add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the ground beef. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spatula until all seasonings are well incorporated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and seasonings to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare your dehydrator or oven racks by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- Spread the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly onto the prepared racks, creating thin, uniform layers approximately 1/4 inch thick. Ensure there are no thick spots for consistent drying.
- If using a dehydrator, set the temperature to 165°F (74°C). If using an oven, preheat to the lowest setting, typically around 170°F (76°C).
- Place the racks in the dehydrator or oven and dry the meat for 5-6 hours, checking periodically to ensure even drying and prevent overcooking.
- The jerky is done when it appears dry, dark, and can be bent without breaking. It should have a leathery, firm texture.
- Remove the jerky from the racks and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Store the cooled jerky in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, it can last 1-2 weeks.
Tips
- Choose lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) to prevent excess fat that can make your jerky spoil quickly.
- Chill the meat mixture before spreading to help it stick together and dry more evenly.
- Use a meat slicer or the back of a baking sheet to create uniform thickness for consistent drying.
- Always ensure internal meat temperature reaches 165°F to kill potential bacteria.
- Pat the meat dry before dehydrating to remove excess moisture.
- Let the jerky cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
- Store in a cool, dark place and consume within 1-2 weeks for best quality and flavor.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spice combinations like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
