Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky Recipe

A Sweet and Spicy Twist on Classic Beef Jerky

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky is a must-try. The sweet, caramel-like depth of Dr. Pepper blends perfectly with the smoky heat of fresh jalapeños, creating a unique and irresistible jerky. This homemade recipe is not only more affordable than store-bought options but also allows you to control the spice level and ingredients to your liking.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Spicy Balance – The combination of Dr. Pepper’s rich sweetness and the heat from jalapeños creates a perfect contrast.
• No Preservatives – Unlike many store-bought jerkies, this homemade version contains only fresh, real ingredients.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, sweetness, or even add extra flavors to suit your taste.
• Great for Snacking – High in protein and packed with flavor, this jerky is perfect for road trips, hiking, or everyday snacking.

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef (top round, sirloin, or flank steak)
• 2 cups Dr. Pepper soda
• 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• ½ teaspoon curing salt (optional, for longer shelf life)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Place the beef in the freezer for 30–60 minutes to make slicing easier.
• Slice the beef against the grain into ¼-inch thick strips for tender jerky.

2. Make the Marinade

• In a bowl, combine Dr. Pepper, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, jalapeños, and seasonings. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Add the beef strips, ensuring they are fully submerged.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Dry the Jerky

• Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) or set your dehydrator to 160°F (70°C).
• Remove the beef from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels, and arrange on a wire rack or dehydrator trays.
• If using an oven, place a baking sheet beneath the rack to catch drips.

4. Dehydrate the Jerky

• Oven method: Bake for 4–6 hours, flipping halfway through.
• Dehydrator method: Dry for 6–8 hours, checking for desired texture.
• Jerky is done when it bends without breaking and has a leathery texture.

5. Cool & Store

• Let the jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 1 week, in the fridge for 2–3 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add more jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.
• Smokier Flavor: Use liquid smoke (½ teaspoon) in the marinade.
• Sweeter Jerky: Increase brown sugar or add honey.
• Teriyaki Twist: Swap brown sugar for honey and add ½ teaspoon ginger powder.

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Serving & Timing

• Servings: Makes about 8–10 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 8–24 hours
• Drying Time: 4–8 hours

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Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for 2–3 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in vacuum-sealed bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: If needed, briefly warm jerky in a low-temperature oven for 5 minutes.

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FAQs

How spicy is this jerky?

The heat level depends on the jalapeños and whether you include the seeds. For milder jerky, remove the seeds or reduce the jalapeños.

Can I use a different soda instead of Dr. Pepper?

Yes! Try Cherry Coke, Root Beer, or Pepsi for a similar sweet and bold flavor.

Do I have to use curing salt?

No, but it extends shelf life and enhances food safety. Without it, store the jerky in the fridge.

Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?

Yes! Use 93% lean ground beef, mix in the marinade, and form into strips before dehydrating.

How do I know when the jerky is done?

It should be firm but bendable, with a leathery texture and no moisture inside.

Can I air fry this jerky?

Yes! Use the lowest setting on your air fryer (usually 160–180°F) and dry for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway.

What if I don’t have a dehydrator?

You can use an oven at 175°F with the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.

Can I make this jerky less sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar or use a diet soda alternative.

How long should I marinate the beef?

At least 8 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor absorption.

Can I use other meats?

Yes! This marinade works well with chicken, turkey, or even venison.

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Final Thoughts

Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Beef Jerky is the perfect sweet, spicy, and smoky snack for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for hiking trips, road trips, or just as a protein-packed treat, this homemade jerky is sure to impress. With easy customizations and a simple process, you’ll never need store-bought jerky again!

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