Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky

This Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. The rich, caramelized taste of Dr. Pepper pairs beautifully with the heat from jalapeños, creating a bold and addictive snack that’s perfect for road trips, meal prepping, or anytime snacking.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Packed with Bold Flavor – Sweet, spicy, smoky, and savory all in one.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
✔ Better than Store-Bought – No preservatives or unnecessary additives.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your preference.

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef (top round, flank, or brisket), sliced thin (⅛ to ¼-inch thick)
• 1 can (12 oz) Dr. Pepper
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spicier jerky)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Dr. Pepper, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, jalapeños, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are fully combined.

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Step 2: Marinate the Beef

1. Place the thinly sliced beef in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight for maximum flavor).

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Step 3: Prepare for Drying

1. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a wire rack or directly on your dehydrator trays.

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Step 4: Dry the Beef

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 170°F (or the lowest setting).
2. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and lay the beef slices on top.
3. Dry for 4-6 hours, flipping halfway through, until the jerky is firm but still pliable.

Dehydrator Method:

1. Arrange beef slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays.
2. Set to 160°F and dry for 4-6 hours, checking occasionally.

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Step 5: Cool & Store

1. Allow the jerky to cool to room temperature before storing.
2. Store in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks (or refrigerate for longer storage).

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Tips for the Best Beef Jerky

✔ Slice against the grain – This makes the jerky more tender.
✔ Use lean beef – Fatty cuts spoil faster.
✔ Marinate overnight – The longer, the better for flavor absorption.
✔ Check doneness – Jerky should bend slightly but not break.

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Final Thoughts

This Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky is a perfect balance of sweet heat with a deep, smoky flavor. Whether you’re making it for a road trip, meal prep, or just a protein-packed snack, it’s guaranteed to impress.

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