Dehydrators That Make the Best Jerky: A Comprehensive Review

If you're passionate about making jerky at home, like I am, then investing in a high-quality food dehydrator is essential. Jerky needs a specific drying environment to ensure it turns out flavorful, chewy, and, most importantly, safe to eat. The best dehydrators for jerky offer precise temperature control, consistent airflow, and enough space to handle large batches. In this comprehensive review, I'll share what makes a great jerky maker, the features to look for, and recommend some of the best food dryers on the market. Let’s find out which dehydrator is perfect for your needs!

 

Why Choose a Dehydrator for Making Jerky

Homemade jerky has become one of my favorite snacks because of its delicious flavor, high protein content, and long shelf life. Unlike store-bought jerky, making it at home lets me control the ingredients, flavors, and texture, giving me a healthier and more personalized snack. But, to make high-quality jerky, you need a food dehydrator that meets some specific requirements.

Benefits of Using a Food Dehydrator for Jerky

• Control Over Ingredients: I can avoid additives and preservatives commonly found in store-bought jerky.
• Customizable Flavors: I get to experiment with different marinades, spices, and cuts of meat.
• Cost-Effective: Making large batches costs a fraction of what store-bought options do.
• Healthier Options: I can use lean meats and organic ingredients to create a nutritious snack.

What to Look for in a Dehydrator for Jerky

Choosing the right jerky maker can feel overwhelming, especially with all the models available. Here are the essential features I always consider:

• Temperature Control

Temperature control is one of the most critical factors in a dehydrator for jerky. To safely dehydrate meat, your unit must reach and maintain temperatures between 145°F and 160°F. I always look for adjustable temperature settings to ensure my jerky is dried thoroughly and safely, reducing any risk of bacteria.

• Airflow Design

The airflow design of a food dehydrator determines how evenly the food dries. For jerky, I find that horizontal airflow systems, where the fan and heater are located at the back of the unit, work best. This design ensures even air distribution across all trays, so there's no need to rotate them. Vertical airflow models, with the fan and heater at the top or bottom, can lead to uneven drying if the trays are too full.

• Capacity and Expandability

I also consider how much jerky I plan to make at one time. Some dehydrators come with a fixed number of trays, while others are expandable. If you regularly make large batches like I do, choose a food dryer with a high capacity or an expandable design that allows you to add more trays as needed.

• Ease of Cleaning

Making jerky can get messy, especially with drippy marinades. I prefer a dehydrator with removable, dishwasher-safe trays because it makes cleanup so much easier. Stainless steel trays are another great option; they are more durable and easier to clean than plastic.

• Durability and Build Quality

A high-quality food dehydrator should be built to last. I always look for models made with durable materials like stainless steel, which resist rust, stains, and odors better than plastic. Stainless steel models can be more expensive, but their durability and ease of maintenance often justify the higher cost.

By focusing on these key features, I can confidently choose the right dehydrator for jerky that meets all my jerky-making needs.

 

Top Dehydrators for Making Jerky

After understanding the features that make a great jerky maker, let’s look at some top-rated food dehydrators that are perfect for making jerky:

Septree 10-tray Food Dehydrator

The Septree ST-01 is a popular choice for jerky enthusiasts, offering a large capacity and robust performance. With 10 trays and 17 square feet of drying space, this food dehydrator can handle large batches of jerky. It features an adjustable thermostat ranging from 70°F to 190°F, making it ideal for safely drying meat. The horizontal airflow design ensures even drying without rotating trays, making it perfect for jerky.

Key Features:

• Large Capacity: Great for big batches of jerky.
• Adjustable Thermostat: Wide temperature range suitable for different types of food.
• Easy to Clean: The back electric box of the dehydrator can separation, trays are dishwasher-safe.

Septree DBC-18A Commercial Dehydrator

For those who prefer a more durable option, the Septree 18-tray Commercial Food Dehydrator is an excellent choice. It has 18 trays and an adjustable temperature range from 70°F to 190°F. The digital control panel allows for precise temperature and time settings, while the horizontal airflow system ensures even drying. Besides, there are 12 accessories which is essential for homesteader or professional chef and gardener. When you need to dehydrate a large amount of food, fruit, herbs, jerky and veggies, it will be great.

Key Features:

• Stainless Steel Build: Durable and easy to maintain.
• Digital Controls: Allows for precise settings, improving drying results.
• Quiet Operation: Runs quietly, making it suitable for home environments.

Septree DSC-08A Food Dehydrator For Jerky

The Septree Digital Food Dehydrator is a great mid-range option. It features 8 stackable trays and a 24-hour timer with an auto shut-off feature. The adjustable digital thermostat ranges from 70°F to 190°F, making it perfect for drying meat. The continuous airflow system provides even drying without the need to rotate trays.

Key Features:

• Digital Thermostat and Timer: Easy to set and forget.
• Auto Shut-Off: Adds convenience and safety.
• Compact Design: Fits well in small kitchens.

Tips for Making the Best Jerky at Home

Now that you have a better idea of the best food dryers for making jerky, here are some tips to help you make the best jerky at home:

• Choose the Right Cut of Meat

Opt for lean cuts of meat like beef round, flank steak, or venison. Trim off any visible fat, as fat can spoil and affect the jerky’s shelf life.

• Marinate for Flavor

Marinating the meat enhances its flavor. Use your favorite marinade recipe and let the meat soak for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.

• Arrange Meat Evenly on Trays

Lay the meat strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, leaving space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation.

• Monitor the Drying Process

Check the jerky periodically to ensure it’s drying evenly. Rotate trays if necessary (if using a vertical airflow model) and test pieces for doneness. Jerky should be dry but still flexible, not brittle.

• Store Properly

Once the jerky is done, let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Properly dried and stored jerky can last several months.

 

Conclusion

Investing in a quality food dehydrator is the first step to making delicious, homemade jerky. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned jerky maker, selecting a dehydrator for jerky that offers even drying, precise temperature control, and ease of use will make all the difference in your jerky-making adventures. With the right equipment and a little practice, you’ll be able to enjoy tasty, healthy jerky anytime you want.

By considering factors like capacity, airflow design, and durability, you can find the perfect food dryer that meets your needs. Whether you choose a model from Excalibur, Nesco, Cosori, or Hamilton Beach, you’ll be well-equipped to make high-quality jerky at home. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, have fun creating your homemade jerky!