10 Best Cuts For Beef Jerky (2024 Update)

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Are you a beef jerky lover? Do you want to make your own homemade beef jerky? If yes, then you need to know about the cuts of beef that are best suited for making jerky. Choosing the right cut of meat is critical to making the perfect jerky. Here are five key points you should keep in mind when looking for cuts for beef jerky:

1. Lean cuts: The meat you choose should have little to no fat. Fat spoils the jerky and can cause it to spoil faster.

2. Tender cuts: The best cuts of meat for jerky are tender cuts like sirloin, flank steak, and round steak. These cuts are easy to slice and chew.

3. Consistent thickness: When choosing a cut of meat, make sure it has consistent thickness throughout. This will allow for even drying and cooking.

4. Marbling: Avoid cuts of meat that have a lot of marbling. This will cause the jerky to spoil faster and may result in an uneven texture.

5. Price: The cost of the meat should be reasonable. Don't overspend on expensive cuts of meat that may not be necessary for making good jerky.

In summary, when looking for cuts for beef jerky, choose lean, tender cuts with consistent thickness and minimal marbling that are reasonably priced. With the right cuts of meat, you'll be able to make delicious, homemade jerky that will impress your family and friends.

10 Best Cuts For Beef Jerky

1. Chef's Cut Real Smoked Beef Original Recipe Jerky, 14 Ounce

Chef's Cut Real Smoked Beef Original Recipe Jerky is a premium product made using the best quality ingredients and chef-crafted marinades. The jerky is made from hand-picked beef cuts that are marinated in soy sauce, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce, giving it the perfect blend of salty, spicy, and sweet flavors.

The handcrafted jerky is made using premium cuts of top-round sirloin and real ingredients, which make it incredibly tender and flavorful. Unlike other beef jerky products, it is not just beef in a bag; it is steak in a bag. The jerky is available in sticks, pepperoni, and a variety pack, making it a versatile snack that can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime.

Chef's Cut Real Smoked Beef Original Recipe Jerky is rich in protein, with 7-10 grams of protein per serving. It is a deliciously satisfying snack that is paleo and keto-friendly, gluten-free, and nitrate-free. The product contains no artificial preservatives, making it a healthy and natural snack option.

The jerky has a long shelf life, and the resealable packaging makes it perfect for easy storage and outdoor activities like golf, hiking, camping, and fishing. It is a convenient and tasty snack that can be enjoyed on the go, at work, or at home.

Chef's Cut Real Jerky is a brand that is redefining what beef jerky looks, tastes, and feels like. The company's mission is simple: to make the best tasting product using only the highest quality ingredients. With Chef's Cut Real Smoked Beef Original Recipe Jerky, consumers can take the chef with them wherever they go, and enjoy a premium, delicious, and healthy snack that satisfies their cravings and fuels their bodies.

2. Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef And Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks, 1 Ounce (16 Count)

Introducing Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef and Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks, a delicious and protein-packed snack that is perfect for those who are always on the go. Made with fine cuts of steak and pork, these snack sticks are marinated with a flavorful blend of garlic, pepper, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard, making them a mouth-watering treat for the taste buds.

Chef's Cut Real Snack Sticks and Mini Sticks are made exclusively from real meats and ingredients, ensuring that you get only the best quality products. Handcrafted and slow-smoked to perfection, these snack sticks are individually packed, making them convenient to carry around and enjoy anytime, anywhere.

With 8 grams of protein per serving, Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef and Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks are the perfect snack for those who are looking for a protein-rich and satisfying snack that is also paleo and keto-friendly. These snack sticks come in sticks, pepperoni, and a variety pack, and are gluten-free and nitrate-free, with no artificial preservatives.

Thanks to their resealable packaging, Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef and Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks have a long shelf life, making them perfect for easy storage and outdoor activities like golf, hiking, camping, and fishing. You can take them with you wherever you go and enjoy a delicious and satisfying snack whenever you need it.

Chef's Cut Real Jerky Co. is on a mission to redefine what beef jerky looks, tastes, and feels like. Their goal is simple: to make the best tasting product using only the highest quality ingredients. With Chef's Cut Real Snack Beef and Pork Original Smokehouse Sticks, you can take the chef with you and enjoy a delicious and satisfying snack that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

3. Cattleman's Cut Teriyaki Beef Jerky, 10 Ounce

Cattleman's Cut Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a high-quality, handcrafted product that is perfect for those in need of a quick and satisfying snack. Made from USDA steak that has been marinated for over 24 hours, this beef jerky is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite.

One of the standout features of Cattleman's Cut Teriyaki Beef Jerky is its clear packaging. This allows the handcrafted quality of the product to speak for itself, making it clear that customers are getting a premium snack that has been made with care and attention to detail.

Not only is this beef jerky delicious, but it is also high in protein, making it a great option for those in need of a quick energy boost. The resealable bag also makes it easy to take on-the-go, ensuring that you have a satisfying snack to keep you going throughout the day.

The flavor of Cattleman's Cut Teriyaki Beef Jerky is robust and savory, thanks to its unique blend of soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and other seasonings. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among beef jerky lovers.

Overall, Cattleman's Cut Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a top-quality product that is perfect for those in need of a delicious and satisfying snack. Its handcrafted quality, high protein content, and robust flavor make it a standout option among other beef jerky products.

4. 12 Pack Jack Link's Beef Steak, Original Flavor, 23g Protein And 2g Carbs Per Serving.

Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is a protein-packed snack that is perfect for individuals who are constantly on-the-go. This product is based on the original recipe of Jack Link's great-grandfather, and is made using lean cuts of 100% premium beef. Each beef steak is marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices, and slow-smoked over hardwoods to perfection.

These beef steaks are a great source of protein, providing 23g of protein per serving. This makes them an ideal snack for individuals who are looking for a quick burst of energy in between meals. Moreover, they are low in carbs, with only 2g of carbs per serving.

Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is packed in ready-to-eat big packs, which make them convenient to carry around wherever you go. You can stick a steak in your backpack, back pocket, jacket pocket, or anywhere else that is convenient for you. These beef steaks do not require refrigeration, making them an ideal snack for work, home, the trails or the lake.

Jack Link's is the #1 selling beef jerky brand, and with good reason. When you open a bag of Jack Link's, you get a taste of the American tradition that made this family business a success: hard work, fun, and quality products. Their protein snacks are the fuel for people to Feed Their Wild Side.

In summary, Jack Link's Premium Cuts Beef Steak is a delicious and convenient snack that is perfect for individuals who are always on-the-go. It is made with 100% premium beef, is low in carbs, and is an excellent source of protein. Moreover, it does not require refrigeration, making it easy to carry around wherever you go.

5. Jerky Legends Slicer Kit With Smoky Spicy Cajun Seasonings And Knife.

The Professional Beef Jerky Slicer Making Cutting Board Kit with Jerky Legends blend of Smoky Spicy Cajun seasonings and a 10 inch carving and slicing knife is a must-have for anyone who loves making deliciously mouthwatering jerky. This kit contains everything you need to make jerky without any hassle, including a premium meat jerky slicer, a professional 10” chef's knife and knife guide rails, a safety finger guard, a quick start recipe book, and instant pro seasoning.

Achieving perfectly optimized, uniform slices is crucial to ensuring a uniform smokehouse cook throughout, which not only makes for great jerky but also protects your health. With the 1/8 inch spacers on this meat slicer, adjusting the thickness of the slices is a breeze.

Slicing meat can be a serious safety problem, which is why this stainless steel meat cutter machine has an advanced stationary design with adjustable knife rails. This ensures that your meat stays in place and your fingers stay intact. No more eyeballing required!

Using this system is faster than any other method. Simply set the desired thickness, place the whole muscle meat on top, run the included meat cutting knife between the rails, remove the slice and keep slicing until it’s finished. Use the included seasoning packet to season the meat, and throw the slicer right into the dishwasher while you’re smoking your jerky.

This kit offers the best value for your money, with the butcher knife alone worth more than what you’ll invest in the entire set. The manufacturer is so confident that you'll love this jerky maker set that they offer a risk-free 90-day trial. Try it out and see for yourself how easy and enjoyable it is to make delicious jerky at home.

In summary, the Professional Beef Jerky Slicer Making Cutting Board Kit with Jerky Legends blend of Smoky Spicy Cajun seasonings and a 10 inch carving and slicing knife is the perfect kit for anyone who loves making delicious jerky. With its advanced design and easy-to-use features, this kit offers the best value for your money and is sure to make your jerky-making experience a breeze.

6. Jack Link's Teriyaki Beef Jerky – 10g Protein, 80 Calories, 100% Beef, Soy, Ginger, Onion, 96% Fat Free, No Msg Added – 9 Oz, Pack Of 2.

Jack Link's Beef Jerky, Teriyaki flavor, is a delicious and nutritious snack that provides 10 grams of protein and 80 calories per serving. Made with lean cuts of 100% beef, this jerky is 96% fat-free and contains no added MSG, except for that naturally occurring in soy sauce.

This jerky is seasoned with soy, ginger, and onion, giving it a unique East-meets-West flavor that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Slow cooked over hardwood smoke, it is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Not only is Jack Link's Teriyaki Beef Jerky a delicious snack, it is also a good source of protein, which is essential for optimal health. Whether you are looking for a quick energy boost at work or a post-workout snack, this jerky is the perfect choice.

The resealable 9-ounce bag ensures that your jerky stays fresh and flavorful, so you can enjoy it anytime, anywhere. It is the perfect snack for game day, road trips, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying snack.

With its combination of protein, flavor, and convenience, Jack Link's Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a must-have snack for anyone who wants to stay healthy and energized. Try it today and discover why it is one of the most popular beef jerky brands in the world.

7. Jack Link's Original Flavor Beef Jerky, 8 Oz (Pack Of 2) – Ready-To-Eat Protein Snacks With 9g Of Protein And 70 Calories Per Serving, Made With Premium Beef.

Jack Link’s Steak Strips, Beef Jerky, Original Flavor, Snack Bags, Extra Thick Cut Protein Snacks, Ready To Eat – 9g of Protein and 70 Calories per Serving, Made with Premium Beef, 8 Oz (Pack Of 2) is a delicious meat snack that is perfect for those who are always on the go. It is a good source of protein, providing 9g of protein and only 70 calories per serving. This makes it an excellent snack to have on hand, especially for those who need a quick and easy way to power through their day.

One of the best things about Jack Link’s original steak strips is that they are made from 100% premium beef. They are also free from added MSG or nitrates, making them a healthier choice for those who are looking to avoid these additives. Additionally, this item is gluten-free, making it an excellent snack option for those with gluten sensitivities.

The portable snacking feature of this product is also noteworthy. The pack contains two 8 oz bags that are perfect for snacking wherever and whenever you have the urge. The bags are resealable, so you can save some snacking for later on. This convenience is perfect for those who are always on the go and need a quick and easy snack to keep them going.

The full-on flavor of Jack Link’s original steak strips is also a highlight. The tender texture, extra thick cut, premium value, hardwood smoked, and deliciously seasoned taste are sure to satisfy your cravings. Beef jerky fans will appreciate the steak strips' heartier and more tender texture, making them a more premium snack option.

In summary, Jack Link’s Steak Strips, Beef Jerky, Original Flavor, Snack Bags, Extra Thick Cut Protein Snacks, Ready To Eat – 9g of Protein and 70 Calories per Serving, Made with Premium Beef, 8 Oz (Pack Of 2) is an excellent snack option for those who need a quick and easy way to power through their day. It is a good source of protein, made from 100% premium beef, and is gluten-free. The portable snacking feature and full-on flavor make it a must-have snack for beef jerky and meat snack lovers alike.

8. Billy Buckskin Biltong Cutter: Effortlessly Slice Through Beef Biltong And Jerky With A High-Quality Oak Wood Slicer Featuring A Removable Blade. Made In The Usa For Precision Cutting Of Thin Slices.

The Billy Buckskin Original Biltong Cutter is a must-have for biltong enthusiasts. This South African style biltong slicer was designed by experienced biltong lovers who understand the importance of having the right tool for the job. Made from high-quality red oak, the Billy Buckskin biltong cutter is durable and reliable.

The quality oak wood used in the construction of this biltong slicer is hard enough to properly cut through biltong slabs without getting badly gouged. The removable blade is a practical feature that makes it easy to sharpen and clean. The blade can also be used separately from the cutting block, making it a versatile tool to have in the kitchen. The wingnut attachment makes it easy to remove the blade without the need for any tools.

When it comes to cleaning the Billy Buckskin biltong cutter, it is important to take care. Only use a cloth to clean it and never put it in the dishwasher. The dishwasher can cause the wood to swell and warp out of shape, which can affect the performance of the cutter.

One of the best things about the Billy Buckskin biltong cutter is that it is made 100% in the USA. The materials used are locally sourced, and each cutter is assembled by hand to ensure that the best possible quality is achieved. This biltong slicer is designed to be a long-lasting addition to any kitchen, and it is sure to become a favorite tool of biltong lovers everywhere.

In conclusion, if you are a fan of biltong or jerky, the Billy Buckskin Original Biltong Cutter is a must-have tool. Made with high-quality oak wood and a removable blade, this biltong slicer is both durable and practical. Clean it with care and enjoy the convenience of having a versatile tool that can be used for both biltong and jerky. Made in the USA, the Billy Buckskin biltong cutter is a quality product that is sure to impress.

9. Buffalo Bills 18oz Teriyaki Western Cut Big Slab Beef Jerky (15 Beef Jerky Slabs Per Bag)

Buffalo Bills 18oz Teriyaki Western Cut Big Slab Beef Jerky is a high-quality, delicious snack that is perfect for anyone who loves beef jerky. Made in the USA with 100% US beef, this jerky is a true Western-style jerky that is thin-sliced, a little dry, yet still tender. With only 55 calories and 5 carbs per 1/2 slab, this jerky is a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy snack.

This particular flavor of Buffalo Bills Western Cut Beef Jerky has been chosen by Backpacker Magazine as one of the Top 4 Beef Jerkys in the USA. The Teriyaki flavor is a favorite among jerky lovers and adds a delicious sweetness to the already savory beef.

The jerky comes in 8" x 4" slabs, with 15 beef jerky slabs per bag, making it a perfect snack to share with friends or family. The large size of the slabs makes it easy to enjoy a satisfying and filling snack without having to constantly reach for another piece.

Buffalo Bills Western Cut Beef Jerky is available in five fantastic flavors, including Original, Hickory Pepper, Spicy, Teriyaki, and Cajun. Each flavor is unique and offers a different taste experience. In addition to the 18oz bag, Buffalo Bills also offers this jerky in three other sizes: 3.5oz, 7oz, and 14oz.

Overall, Buffalo Bills 18oz Teriyaki Western Cut Big Slab Beef Jerky is a delicious and healthy snack that is perfect for anyone who loves beef jerky. Made in the USA with 100% US beef and available in a variety of flavors and sizes, this jerky is a great choice for any occasion. Whether you're on a camping trip, hiking, or just looking for a quick and satisfying snack, Buffalo Bills Western Cut Beef Jerky is a must-try.

10. Bronco Billy's Beef Jerky Old Country One Pound Resealable Bag

Bronco Billy's Beef Jerky Old Country One Pound Resealable Bag is the perfect snack for individuals who value authenticity, quality, and convenience. This beef jerky is made using an old-fashioned style recipe that allows you to taste the real meat flavor in every bite. The resealable packaging ensures that your jerky stays fresh, so you can enjoy it whenever you want.

This beef jerky is a great snack choice for individuals following a keto, paleo, Atkins, LCHF, or low-carb diet. It provides natural energy without the added sugars or carbs that are typically found in other snacks. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who are looking for a guilt-free snack that will help them maintain their dietary goals.

Bronco Billy's Beef Jerky Old Country One Pound Resealable Bag is small batch-made in the USA by a family-owned company that prides itself on making beef jerky the time-honored way. Every piece of beef is hand-cut, hand-strung, and hand-packed, ensuring that you get the best quality jerky possible. This traditional method of making jerky ensures that you get a product that is rich in flavor and texture.

This beef jerky is a guilt-free snack that is perfect for individuals who are conscious about their health. It contains no nitrates and no MSG, except for that which naturally occurs in soy sauce. This makes it a low-carb snack that is great for keto and other diets.

Bronco Billy's Beef Jerky Old Country One Pound Resealable Bag is designed for individuals with active lifestyles. It is perfect for on-the-go snacking, whether you are hiking, backpacking, camping, bodybuilding, or simply need a snack for the car or office. This beef jerky is also great to keep at home in the pantry for a quick and easy snack.

In conclusion, Bronco Billy's Beef Jerky Old Country One Pound Resealable Bag is the perfect snack for individuals who value authenticity, quality, and convenience. It is made using an old-fashioned style recipe that allows you to taste the real meat flavor in every bite. It is small batch-made in the USA by a family-owned company that prides itself on making beef jerky the time-honored way. This beef jerky is a guilt-free snack that is perfect for individuals who are conscious about their health. It is designed for individuals with active lifestyles and is perfect for on-the-go snacking.

Best Cuts For Beef Jerky FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef for different types of beef jerky?

Yes, you can use different cuts of beef for different types of beef jerky. Different cuts of beef have different textures and flavors, which can affect the final product. For example, leaner cuts such as eye of round or sirloin are commonly used for traditional beef jerky, while marbled cuts like flank or brisket can be used for a more tender and flavorful jerky.

It's important to consider the fat content and thickness of the beef when making jerky, as this can affect the drying time and overall texture. Thinner cuts will dry faster and result in a crispier texture, while thicker cuts will take longer to dry and have a chewier texture.

Ultimately, the choice of beef cut will depend on personal preference and the desired flavor and texture of the jerky. Experiment with different cuts and seasonings to find the perfect combination for your taste.

How should I prepare cuts of beef before making beef jerky?

To prepare cuts of beef for beef jerky, there are a few key steps to follow. First, it's important to choose the right cut of meat. Lean cuts like top round or flank steak work well because they don't have a lot of fat, which can spoil the jerky. Next, the meat should be sliced thinly against the grain to make it easier to chew. Cutting the meat into strips that are about 1/8 inch thick is ideal. Once the meat is sliced, it should be marinated in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices for at least 4 hours or overnight. After marinating, the meat can be dried in a dehydrator or oven at a low temperature until it's completely dry and chewy. Properly preparing the meat is essential to making delicious, high-quality beef jerky.

How thick should cuts of meat be for beef jerky?

As a professional, I would recommend cutting the meat into strips that are between 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch thick for beef jerky. The thickness of the meat is crucial for the drying process to be effective. Thicker cuts may not dry evenly, and thinner cuts can become too brittle and dry out too quickly.

It is also important to use lean cuts of beef, such as top round or flank steak, to ensure that the jerky is not too fatty. Additionally, marinating the meat before drying can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the jerky.

Overall, the thickness of the meat, the cut of beef, and the marinating process are all important factors to consider when making beef jerky. Following these guidelines can result in delicious and high-quality jerky.

What are the best cuts of meat for making beef jerky?

I can provide the best cuts of meat for making beef jerky.

The best cuts of beef for making jerky are lean and flavorful. Top round, eye of round, and sirloin are all excellent options. These cuts have minimal fat content and are easy to slice into thin strips. Flank steak is another option, but it has more fat content, which can result in a chewier texture.

It is important to remove any visible fat before marinating and drying the meat to prevent spoilage. Additionally, slicing the meat against the grain will result in a more tender jerky. Overall, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for making high-quality, flavorful beef jerky.

What are the differences in texture and flavor between different cuts of beef jerky?

Different cuts of beef jerky vary in texture and flavor due to the type of meat used, the thickness of the cut, and the seasoning and cooking method applied. For instance, leaner cuts of beef such as top round or sirloin tend to be tougher and chewier, while fattier cuts like rib-eye or brisket tend to be more tender and moist.

In terms of flavor, different cuts of beef jerky can be seasoned with various spices, sauces, and marinades, resulting in distinct tastes. For example, teriyaki-flavored jerky may have a sweet and savory taste, while spicy jerky can have a bold and zesty flavor. Additionally, the cooking process can impact the flavor by changing the levels of smokiness or saltiness.

Overall, the texture and flavor of beef jerky can vary widely depending on the cut, seasoning, and cooking method used.

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