Best Dehydrator for Jerky

Are you a fan of jerky? If so, you’ll want to get yourself the best dehydrator for jerky. Dehydrators are the best way to make jerky, as they evenly dry out your meat without cooking it or overcooking it. 

When it comes to dehydrators, there are a lot of different options to choose from. This can make it difficult to decide which one is right for you.

To help you find the right dehydrator for your needs, we’ve put together a list of some of the top-rated models on the market today. Read on to find out!

Best Dehydrator for Jerky Reviews

Excalibur Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Looking for an effective way to make jerky at home? If so, the Excalibur Dehydrator is a great option to consider. 

This dehydrator features nine trays totalling 15 square feet, making it perfect for large batch jerky making. 

Additionally, the Excalibur Dehydrator features Hyper wave technology and Parallexx horizontal airflow to distribute air evenly and dry food faster. 

With an adjustable thermostat ranging from 105 degrees Fahrenheit to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, you can be sure that your jerky will be cooked at the perfect temperature, preserving nutrients and enzymes. 

The Excalibur Dehydrator also features a built-in on/off switch, making it easy to use. Plus, the dehydrator is easy to clean, thanks to its removable tray design. 

The Dehydrator also includes a 7 inches fan for excellent air circulation and a 600-wattage. 

Overall, the Excalibur Dehydrator is a great option for anyone who is looking for an easy-to-use dehydrator. 

Magic Mill MFD-7070 Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Looking out for a dehydrator that can help you with making jerky? If yes, then the Magic Mill MFD-7070 dehydrator is the perfect option for you. It is equipped with a rear mount fan that allows for superior heat distribution, which dries your food evenly. 

It also features a digital thermostat, which helps in adjusting the temperature precisely as per your requirement. This dehydrator automatically shuts off once it has reached the optimum drying temperature, so there is no need to worry about overdrying your jerky. 

In addition, the Magic Mill dehydrator comes with seven spacious and adjustable stainless steel trays, which are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. It also features overheat protection in case the dehydrator overheats. 

Overall, this is a great dehydrator that is built with food-grade and BPA-free material. It is a 600-watt appliance that offers excellent value for money.

Hamilton Beach 32100A Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Can’t get enough jerky? We have a great (and convenient) solution with the Hamilton Beach 32100A Dehydrator.

This powerful, 500-watt dehydrator comes with five stackable drying racks, giving you plenty of space to dehydrate meats, fruits, and vegetables. The clear lid lets you check on the progress of your jerky without having to open the unit and disrupt the airflow.

The Hamilton Beach 32100A Dehydrator also features a 48-hour timer, so you can set it and forget it. Plus, the automatic shutoff ensures that your jerky isn’t overdried or burnt.

The adjustable temperature setting helps you customize your jerky experience, and the continuous air-flow provides even dehydration throughout each cycle.

It also includes one fine-mesh sheet for drying small food like herbs and one solid sheet for making fruit rolls. Moreover, the simple design and easy-to-use features make this dehydrator perfect for home use.

Nesco FD-75A Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Throw away your oven drying racks, and make room on your countertop for the Nesco FD-75A dehydrator. With 600 watts of drying power, and the ability to expand up to 12 trays, this dehydrator can handle big batches of jerky, fruits, vegetables, and more. 

The Nesco FD-75A also has adjustable temperature control (95°F -160°F), so you can dehydrate a variety of foods.

The BPA-free drying trays are made of high-quality food-grade plastic, and it has VitaSave technology that blocks out harmful light while retaining the nutrients and vitamins in your food. 

The Convega-Flow system ensures even and fast drying without the need to rotate the trays. This makes it easy for you to make and store large batches of jerky without having to worry about overcooking or undercooking it. 

The Nesco FD-75A comes with four trays (13 1/2″ diameter), two fruit roll sheets, two clean-a-screens, a sample of jerky seasoning & cure, and a care & use guide.

The Nesco FD-75A dehydrator is a great option for those who want to make tasty, healthy jerky at home without the hassle of using a traditional oven.

Presto 06300 Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Tired of paying too much for store-bought jerky? Preserve your own meat with the Presto 06300 Dehydrator and avoid the unnecessary and unhealthy ingredients that store-bought jerky can have.

The Presto 06300 Dehydrator is one of the best options available for making jerky. It features a see-through cover that allows you to easily monitor your drying progress, while the bottom-mounted fan and heating element provide consistent air-flow and optimum drying.

The four drying trays that come included with the Presto 06300 can be easily expanded to eight drying trays, allowing you to dehydrate a larger amount of meat at once. The dehydrator operates at a preset temperature of approximately 165°F, making it perfect for preserving meat without overcooking.

What’s more, the drying trays and cover are fully immiscible and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. You can also easily store the Presto 06300 Dehydrator when not in use, thanks to its convenient design that allows you to nest the drying trays for compact storage. Plus, the cord is easily stored in the base of your dehydrator.

If you’re looking for a quality and versatile dehydrator, the Presto 06300 Dehydrator is a great option. 

COSORI Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Thinking of making your own jerky? If so, then the COSORI Dehydrator is the perfect machine for you! 

This dehydrator is made of high-quality, food-grade stainless steel and features a digital control panel, so you can easily select the temperature and set the timer. 

The tray liners are also BPA-Free, so they’re safe to use and won’t transfer harmful chemicals into your food. 

The machine has six spacious trays that are dishwasher-safe, as well as a mesh screen and fruit roll sheet for drying your favorite fruits and vegetables. 

And with its quiet operation, adjustable temperature range, auto shut-off function, and overheat protection, the COSORI Dehydrator is a safe and easy-to-use machine that will help you create delicious and healthy snacks!

Elechomes Dehydrator for Jerky Review

Want to make your own delicious jerky at home? Then you should definitely consider getting the Elechomes dehydrator for jerky. It comes with six stackable clear trays where you can put your jerky to dehydrate. 

One of the great things about this product is that it’s made out of high-quality food-grade materials that are also BPA-free, so you don’t have to worry about any potentially harmful chemicals in the food you’re making. 

This dehydrator has an adjustable temperature and timer where you can choose between 95℉ – 158℉ or 0.5h – 72h, depending on what kind of food you want to make and how fast it needs to be done. The automatic shut-off function will make sure your food doesn’t get overcooked or burnt. 

The mesh screen and fruit roll sheet that come with the product will keep your food from sticking to the trays while still allowing air to circulate properly for even dehydrating. When you’re done, simply remove the trays and wash them in the dishwasher. 

Things to Consider while Buying a Dehydrator for Jerky

When looking to buy a dehydrator for making jerky, there are several things you should consider. These include:

Size and Type

One important factor is the size of the dehydrator. Jerky makers come in a variety of sizes, from small countertop models to large floor-standing units. If you plan on making large quantities of jerky at one time, you’ll need a larger dehydrator. 

Another thing to consider is the type of dehydrator. Some models use convection to circulate hot air, while others use infrared rays. Infrared models tend to be more expensive, but they also provide better results. Regardless of which type of dehydrator you choose, make sure it has enough space to accommodate the amount of jerky you want to make.

Power Capacity

Another important factor to consider is the power capacity of the dehydrator. This will affect not only how quickly the dehydrator can do its job but also how effectively it does so. 

A dehydrator with a lower power capacity may not be able to fully dry the jerky, which can lead to spoilage. Conversely, a dehydrator with too much power may cook the jerky instead of drying it. 

To get the best results, look for a dehydrator that offers a power capacity that is appropriate for the size of your jerky batches.

Airflow

A good dehydrator needs to have strong, reliable air-flow in order to efficiently and effectively dry meat. This is because the main purpose of a dehydrator is to remove all moisture from the meat, leading to a safe and shelf-stable product.

Therefore, it is important that whatever dehydrator you buy has effective airflow – either through the use of powerful fans that rapidly push cool air across the trays or by using multiple levels for quick and even drying over large surfaces. 

Choosing a model with good airflow will ultimately help you create better-quality jerky products every time. So if you are looking for a reliable dehydrator for jerky, be sure to keep airflow in mind when making your purchase!

Temperature Range and Control

Another factor to consider is the temperature range and control. Since you want your jerky to be fully cooked and properly dried out, you need an appliance that is designed for long-term dehydration. 

This means choosing a model with a wide temperature range to ensure the meat is heated evenly over the course of its drying time. In addition, you should look for a dehydrator with programmable settings for both heat and time, so you can set it and forget it without having to worry about over- or under-drying your meats.

Noise Level

One thing that’s often overlooked is noise level. Dehydrators can range from relatively quiet to quite loud, and if you’re planning on using yours regularly, it’s worth considering how much noise it will make. 

Some models even have features that help to reduce noise, such as insulation or sound-dampening panels. So if noise is a concern for you, be sure to look for a dehydrator that won’t disturb your peace.

Easy to Operate

For starters, you will want to choose a model that is easy to operate. This means that the controls and settings should be intuitive and easy to understand, with minimal guesswork involved in using the dehydrator. 

In addition, if you are planning on making large batches of jerky at once, it’s important to choose a model that makes this process as easy as possible. This will include things like easily removable trays, quick heat-up times, and automatic shut-off features.

Extra Accessories

Make sure you consider any extra accessories or features that come with the dehydrator. For instance, some models may include things like recipe books, spice kits, or jerky racks. Others may have special features like a fruit roll-up tray or an herb drying screen. 

Some of these models come equipped with special drying trays that are designed to accommodate larger cuts of meat, such as beef brisket or pork tenderloin. 

In addition, many dehydrators even include accessories like heat-resistant gloves and jerky seasoning blends that can help you achieve perfectly seasoned and consistently textured jerky. 

Warranty

Another thing to consider is the warranty that comes with the appliance. Ideally, you want to look for a model that offers at least a two-year warranty so that you can rest assured that any problems or defects will be covered. 

In addition, a good warranty will also protect you against any accidental damage or misuse of the product. 

Additionally, you should take a look at online reviews and ratings to get an idea of how well various models hold up in the long term. This will give you an idea of which brands are reliable and which ones might not live up to your expectations. 

Price

When it comes to buying a dehydrator, price is certainly an important consideration. That being said, it is important to remember that the saying “you get what you pay for” definitely applies here. 

In general, the cheaper the dehydrator, the lower the quality will be. This means that you are more likely to end up with a unit that doesn’t dehydrate evenly or that breaks down after just a few uses. 

So, while it may be tempting to save a few dollars by opting for the cheapest model on the market, it is usually worth it to invest in a higher-quality unit. After all, you’ll probably end up spending less in the long run by not having to replace your dehydrator every few months.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How does a jerky dehydrator work?

A jerky dehydrator is a kitchen appliance that is used to dry meat. The process of drying meat removes the water content from the meat, which in turn prevents the growth of bacteria. This process also concentrates the flavor of the meat, making it more intense. 

There are two main types of jerky dehydrators: electric and non-electric. Electric dehydrators use either an air heating element or a bottom-mounted heating element to dry the meat. Non-electric dehydrators use either hot air or the sun to dry meat. 

The process of drying meat with a dehydrator typically takes several hours, depending on the amount of meat being dried and the desired level of dryness. Once the meat has been dried, it can be stored in an airtight container for several months.

How long does it take for beef jerky to dry in a dehydrator?

The length of time that it takes for beef jerky to dry in a dehydrator depends on a number of different factors. The thickness of the jerky strips, the temperature setting on the dehydrator, and the humidity levels in the air can all have an impact on how quickly the jerky dries out. 

Generally speaking, thinner strips tend to take less time to cook than thicker slices since they are able to absorb more heat. Similarly, dehydrators that operate at higher temperatures will generally produce faster results than those with slightly lower settings. 

In addition, if the air is particularly damp or humid in your area, it can take longer for your jerky to reach its final stage. However, with proper planning and prep work, before you start cooking, you should be able to achieve perfect dried beef in just a few hours using a dehydrator.

How long do dehydrated jerky and dried meat last?

When it comes to dried meats, there are two main types: jerky and dried. Jerky is made from strips of meat that are lean and have had all the fat trimmed off. Dried meat, on the other hand, is made from larger pieces of meat that still have some fat. 

Both types of dried meats can last for a long time if they are stored properly. Dehydrated jerky can last for up to six months, while dried meat can last for up to a year. When stored in a cool, dry place, both types of dried meats will stay fresh and safe to eat. 

What is the best temperature for drying jerky in a dehydrator?

The best temperature for drying jerky in a dehydrator is between 160 and 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Any lower and the meat will take too long to dry, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. 

Any higher and the meat will start to cook, making it tough and less flavorful. Jerky should be dry to the touch but still pliable when done. If it cracks or breaks when bent, it has been overcooked. For safety, always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat before eating. 

Follow the recommended drying times for your particular dehydrator. Also, keep in mind that thicker cuts of meat will take longer to dry than thinner ones. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and keep your jerky drying a little longer than necessary. 

Is it better to use the oven or the dehydrator to make beef jerky?

There is no clear answer to the question of whether it is better to use an oven or a dehydrator for making beef jerky. Both approaches have strengths and weaknesses, and which one you choose will depend on your particular needs and preferences. 

For instance, using the oven may be more convenient if you are trying to make large quantities of jerky at once, while a dehydrator may be preferable if you want greater control over the final texture of your jerky. 

Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your individual needs and the equipment that you have available. However, whichever method you choose, it is important to follow proper food safety practices in order to ensure that you end up with a delicious and safe version of this popular snack.

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict? What is the best dehydrator for jerky? The answer isn’t simple because there are a lot of great dehydrators on the market. Make sure you go through our list of the top dehydrators for jerky before making your final decision. You can also check our article on the best Nesco dehydrator for jerky.

We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect dehydrator for your needs!