If you love beef jerky, you know how it’s the perfect snack for almost any occasion.
Whether you’re on a road trip, relaxing at home, or just need something quick to munch on, Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky is a delicious and satisfying choice.
The best part? You can make it at home! Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe is easy to follow and gives you that classic, smoky, savory flavor that’s just too good to resist.
I was introduced to this recipe by a friend who couldn’t stop talking about how amazing it tasted. After hearing all about it, I couldn’t wait to give it a try—and I’m so glad I did.
Making your own jerky might sound complicated at first, but once you give it a go, you’ll see how simple it really is.
This recipe is full of flavor and will leave you with a snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
The ingredients are easy to find, and the method is straightforward, so you’ll be enjoying homemade beef jerky in no time.
What is Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe?
Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe is a homemade version of the popular snack known for its rich, smoky flavor and satisfying chewiness.
The recipe calls for beef (usually lean cuts like flank steak or round steak) that’s marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, sauces, and seasonings.
Once the beef is marinated, it’s slowly dried out, either in a dehydrator, oven, or smoker, to create that perfect jerky texture.
The key to Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe is the marinade, which combines soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices.
This gives the jerky a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor that makes it stand out from other jerky recipes.
It’s a great snack to have on hand, and making it at home lets you control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking.
How Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe Tastes Like
Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky has a bold, smoky flavor that is hard to forget. The marinade adds a savory and slightly sweet taste to the beef, while the slow-drying process locks in all those rich flavors.
The jerky itself is tender yet chewy, and every bite is full of that signature smoky goodness. The seasoning mix brings a depth of flavor, with hints of garlic, onion, and a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar.
What’s great about this recipe is that you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. If you like it spicy, you can add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
If you prefer a more mild flavor, just skip the spicy ingredients. The beauty of making Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky at home is that you can make it just how you like it!
When Was I First Introduced to Shrimp Cargot?
While this blog post is all about Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky, I can’t help but remember my first time trying Shrimp Cargot, another amazing dish I was introduced to.
Just like the first bite of beef jerky, I was immediately hooked on Shrimp Cargot’s rich flavors and satisfying texture.
It was during a family dinner where I tried it for the first time, and the buttery, garlic-infused shrimp left a lasting impression.
Similar to how Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky became a favorite of mine, Shrimp Cargot is now something I look forward to at special occasions. It’s funny how some food experiences stay with you, isn’t it?
Equipment
- Dehydrator (preferred) or Oven (set to low temperature)
- Sharp Knife (for slicing the beef)
- Cutting Board
- Large Bowl (for marinating the beef)
- Measuring Spoons and Measuring Cups
- Zip-top Bag or Airtight Container (for storing the jerky)
Ingredients to Make Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe
- Lean Beef = 02 pounds (flank steak or round steak work well)
- Soy Sauce = 1/2 cup
- Worcestershire Sauce = 1/4 cup
- Brown Sugar = 01 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder = 01 teaspoon
- Onion Powder = 01 teaspoon
- Black Pepper = 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes = 1/2 teaspoon (optional for spice)
- Ginger = 1/4 teaspoon (ground)
- Liquid Smoke = 1/4 teaspoon (for extra smokiness)
How to Make Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky
Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Prepare the Beef
- Trim all visible fat from the beef.
- Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
- Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 02: Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir in black pepper, red pepper flakes, ginger, and liquid smoke.
- Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 03: Marinate the Beef
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade.
- Stir the beef to coat it evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Step 04: Dry the Beef
- Dehydrator Method: Arrange beef strips on trays, without overlapping.
- Dry at 160°F for 6-8 hours.
- Check the jerky regularly until it’s firm but slightly pliable.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 160°F.
- Place beef on a rack set over a baking sheet.
- Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow airflow.
- Bake for 6-8 hours, checking occasionally.
Step 05: Cool and Store
- Let the jerky cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
- Store in a cool, dry place for several weeks.
Servings and Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: About 15 minutes to slice the beef and prepare the marinade.
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Marinating Time: 12-24 hours (the longer, the better!)
- Drying Time: 6-8 hours (depending on your dehydrator or oven)
- Total TIme: 30 hours and 15 minutes
- Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on how thick you slice the beef and how much you eat in one sitting.
Nutrition Information
Nutrient | Amount Per Servings) |
Calories | 70-80 kcal |
Protein | 12-15 g |
Fat | 1-2 g |
Carbohydrates | 4-6 g |
Fibre | 0-1 g |
Sugar | 3-4 g |
Sodium | 350-450 mg |
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and Minerals | Value |
Vitamin A | 0 % of daily value |
Vitamin C | 0 % of daily value |
Calcium | 1-2 % of daily value |
Iron | 10-12 % of daily value |
Potassium | 5-7 % of daily value |
Magnesium | 3-5% of daily value |
Recipe Tips
- Use Lean Meat: When making beef jerky, it’s important to choose lean cuts of meat. Flank steak, top round, or sirloin are all great options. Fat can turn rancid during the drying process, so lean meat will give you the best jerky texture and shelf life.
- Slice Thin: Slice the beef as thin as possible to ensure it dries evenly. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. If you want a chewier jerky, you can slice it a little thicker, but thinner slices will give you a more tender result.
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 12 hours, or even up to 24 hours. The longer the beef soaks in the marinade, the more flavorful the jerky will be.
- Dehydrator or Oven: While a dehydrator is the best way to make beef jerky, you can also use your oven. Just make sure the temperature is low (around 160°F) and leave the door slightly open for air circulation.
- Store Properly: Once your jerky is done, store it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can last for weeks, making it a great snack to keep on hand.
FAQs
Can I make Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky without a dehydrator?
Yes! While a dehydrator is the best option, you can also use your oven. Just set the temperature to 160°F and leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow air to circulate. Check the jerky regularly to make sure it’s drying evenly.
How long does it take to make Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky?
The entire process will take about 24 hours. This includes marinating the beef overnight (12-24 hours) and drying it for 6-8 hours in a dehydrator or oven.
Can I adjust the seasoning to make the jerky spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a little heat, add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the marinade. Adjust the amount to your taste.
Can I use a different type of meat for this jerky?
While this recipe calls for beef, you can substitute it with other meats like turkey or venison. Just keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments to the marinating time.
What to Serve with Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky
Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky is the perfect snack on its own, but if you want to serve it as part of a larger meal or snack spread, here are some great ideas:
- Cheese and Crackers: Pair your jerky with some sharp cheddar or gouda and crunchy crackers. This makes for a great appetizer or snack board.
- Vegetables and Dip: Serve the jerky with a side of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers along with a tasty dip like ranch or hummus for a balanced snack.
- Beer or Cider: If you’re enjoying your jerky with friends, a cold beer or a refreshing cider pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the jerky.
- Fruit: For a sweet contrast, serve your jerky with fresh fruit like apple slices, grapes, or pineapple. The sweetness of the fruit complements the savory jerky.
Storage Tips
- Cool Completely: Allow jerky to cool completely before storing.
- Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Vacuum-Sealed Bag: For longer shelf life, use a vacuum-sealed bag.
- Store in a Cool Place: Keep jerky in a cool, dry area.
- Refrigeration Option: For extra freshness, refrigerate the jerky.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored jerky can last for several weeks.
Concluding Remarks
Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky is a savory, flavorful snack that’s perfect for on-the-go or enjoying at home. With a simple recipe and easy steps, you can make delicious jerky that rivals store-bought options.
It’s a great way to bring some homemade goodness to your next adventure or share with family and friends.
Whether you use a dehydrator or your oven, this jerky recipe will give you a tasty and satisfying treat every time.
Enjoy your Making Adventure with Munchiie!
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Wild Bill’s Beef Jerky Recipe
Equipment
- Dehydrator (preferred) or Oven (set to low temperature)
- Sharp Knife (for slicing the beef)
- Cutting Board
- Large Bowl (for marinating the beef)
- Measuring Spoons and Measuring Cups
- Zip-top Bag or Airtight Container (for storing the jerky)
Ingredients
- Lean Beef = 02 pounds flank steak or round steak work well
- Soy Sauce = 1/2 cup
- Worcestershire Sauce = 1/4 cup
- Brown Sugar = 01 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder = 01 teaspoon
- Onion Powder = 01 teaspoon
- Black Pepper = 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes = 1/2 teaspoon optional for spice
- Ginger = 1/4 teaspoon ground
- Liquid Smoke = 1/4 teaspoon for extra smokiness
Instructions
- Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Prepare the Beef
- Trim all visible fat from the beef.
- Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
- Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 02: Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir in black pepper, red pepper flakes, ginger, and liquid smoke.
- Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 03: Marinate the Beef
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade.
- Stir the beef to coat it evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Step 04: Dry the Beef
- Dehydrator Method: Arrange beef strips on trays, without overlapping.
- Dry at 160°F for 6-8 hours.
- Check the jerky regularly until it’s firm but slightly pliable.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 160°F.
- Place beef on a rack set over a baking sheet.
- Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow airflow.
- Bake for 6-8 hours, checking occasionally.
Step 05: Cool and Store
- Let the jerky cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
- Store in a cool, dry place for several weeks.
Servings and Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: About 15 minutes to slice the beef and prepare the marinade.
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Marinating Time: 12-24 hours (the longer, the better!)
- Drying Time: 6-8 hours (depending on your dehydrator or oven)
- Total TIme: 30 hours and 15 minutes
- Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on how thick you slice the beef and how much you eat in one sitting.
Notes
- Use Lean Meat: When making beef jerky, it’s important to choose lean cuts of meat. Flank steak, top round, or sirloin are all great options. Fat can turn rancid during the drying process, so lean meat will give you the best jerky texture and shelf life.
- Slice Thin: Slice the beef as thin as possible to ensure it dries evenly. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. If you want a chewier jerky, you can slice it a little thicker, but thinner slices will give you a more tender result.
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 12 hours, or even up to 24 hours. The longer the beef soaks in the marinade, the more flavorful the jerky will be.
- Dehydrator or Oven: While a dehydrator is the best way to make beef jerky, you can also use your oven. Just make sure the temperature is low (around 160°F) and leave the door slightly open for air circulation.
- Store Properly: Once your jerky is done, store it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can last for weeks, making it a great snack to keep on hand.
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