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Honey BBQ Beef Jerky

Honey BBQ Beef Jerky close-up on rustic wooden board

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This homemade Honey BBQ Beef Jerky is a sweet and smoky high-protein snack perfect for road trips, hikes, or anytime cravings. Made with a simple marinade of BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce, it delivers bold flavor without preservatives.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or top round, partially frozen
  • 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke

Instructions

  1. Partially freeze the beef for 1-2 hours until firm. Slice against the grain into 1/4 inch thick strips.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, and liquid smoke.
  3. Place beef strips in a large zip-top bag or glass dish. Pour marinade over, seal, and massage to coat. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
  4. Preheat oven to 170°F. Line baking sheets with foil and place wire racks on top. Arrange beef strips in a single layer on racks without touching.
  5. Place baking sheets in oven and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon handle. Dry for 3-4 hours, checking after 2 hours. Jerky is done when dry to the touch but still flexible.
  6. Remove from oven and cool completely on racks. Pat off excess fat with paper towels. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

For chewier jerky, slice with the grain. For more tender bites, slice against the grain. A dehydrator can be used at 170°F for 4-5 hours. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 months or freezer for up to 12 months.

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