18 Savory Deer Jerky Recipes for Snack Lovers

Posted on March 15, 2025

Are you a snack lover looking for something new and exciting to munch on? Look no further than deer jerky! This savory and delicious treat has gained popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. With its tender texture and rich flavor, deer jerky is the perfect companion for anyone who loves snacking on-the-go.

From classic smoked flavors to bold and spicy varieties, there are countless ways to make deer jerky. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking for a new snack option, we’ve got you covered with these 18 savory deer jerky recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Classic Smoked Deer Jerky

Classic Smoked Deer Jerky
Smoky flavor meets tender texture with this classic deer jerky recipe. Perfect for camping trips or a healthy snack, these flavorful strips are easy to make and packed with protein.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison (deer meat), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 160°F (71°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place deer strips in a single layer on the smoker rack.
4. Brush the meat with the marinade mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Spicy Garlic Deer Jerky

Spicy Garlic Deer Jerky
Transform your deer meat into a flavorful snack with this spicy garlic jerky recipe. Perfect for camping trips or just as a tasty treat, this jerky is sure to satisfy any wild game enthusiast.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison (deer) steak
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add the deer steak to the marinade, coating evenly.
4. Place the marinated deer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches desired dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Honey BBQ Deer Jerky

Honey BBQ Deer Jerky
Perfectly balance sweet and savory flavors with this Honey BBQ Deer Jerky recipe. This delicious snack is easy to make at home and is great for camping trips, outdoor adventures, or just a tasty treat any time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound deer jerky (thinly sliced)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the deer jerky slices to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Place the marinated jerky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until dry and slightly chewy.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into strips.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Teriyaki Deer Jerky

Teriyaki Deer Jerky
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this sweet and savory Teriyaki Deer Jerky recipe, perfect for snacking on the go!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb deer jerky (or beef or turkey), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
3. Add deer jerky strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the marinated jerky strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Peppered Deer Jerky

Peppered Deer Jerky
Add a kick to your snack game with this flavorful peppered deer jerky recipe. Perfect for on-the-go or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison (deer) strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add the deer strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the marinated deer strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Maple Bourbon Deer Jerky

Maple Bourbon Deer Jerky
Sweet and savory, this maple bourbon deer jerky recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and maple syrup with the tender texture of venison. Perfect for a snack or as an addition to your favorite dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound deer meat (venison), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the deer meat strips to the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
5. Remove the deer meat from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place the deer meat strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Dry in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Jalapeño Lime Deer Jerky

Jalapeño Lime Deer Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this unique flavor combination of jalapeño and lime, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and spice lovers alike. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful jerky that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound deer meat (or venison), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven or dehydrator to 160°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cumin, jalapeños, salt, and pepper.
3. Add deer meat strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove jerky from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Place jerky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a dehydrator tray.
6. Dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until desired level of dryness is reached.

Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours

Sweet Chili Deer Jerky

Sweet Chili Deer Jerky
Sweet Chili Deer Jerky Recipe

Summary: This sweet and spicy jerky recipe combines the natural flavors of deer meat with a tangy chili seasoning, perfect for snacking on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steak or strips
– 1/4 cup sweet chili powder
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sweet chili powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the deer meat strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the sweet chili mixture evenly over the deer meat, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Smoky Chipotle Deer Jerky

Smoky Chipotle Deer Jerky
Add a smoky kick to your deer jerky with this bold recipe, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous eaters. This spicy treat is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you fueled on the go.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steak or roast, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
3. Add deer strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove jerky from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Garlic Herb Deer Jerky

Garlic Herb Deer Jerky
Experience the bold flavor of garlic and herbs in this mouth-watering deer jerky recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place venison strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the deer jerky.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until dry and slightly flexible.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Pineapple Ginger Deer Jerky

Pineapple Ginger Deer Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy deer jerky recipe that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and ginger. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking for a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, grated ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the sliced venison to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the marinated deer strips out in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Hot Pepper Deer Jerky

Hot Pepper Deer Jerky
This recipe combines the rich flavor of venison with the bold heat of hot peppers, creating a unique and addictive snack for outdoor enthusiasts. Perfect for backpacking trips or camping adventures, this jerky is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound deer meat (venison), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 hot peppers (such as jalapeño or habanero), sliced into thin strips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the deer meat strips to the marinade and mix well to coat.
4. Place the marinated meat on wire racks set over baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Once cooled, add sliced hot peppers to the jerky and serve.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Apple Cider Deer Jerky

Apple Cider Deer Jerky
This sweet and savory jerky recipe combines the rich flavor of apple cider with the lean protein of deer meat, creating a delicious snack perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb deer meat (white or dark), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the deer meat strips to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
4. Place the bowl in the oven and dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
5. Remove the jerky from the oven and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Sriracha Honey Deer Jerky

Sriracha Honey Deer Jerky
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy deer jerky recipe! This unique combination of Sriracha and honey adds a depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb venison steaks, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the deer strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the jerky strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Mesquite Deer Jerky

Mesquite Deer Jerky
This recipe combines the rich flavor of mesquite wood with tender deer meat to create a delicious and savory snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this jerky is easy to make and packed with protein.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steaks or strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons mesquite liquid smoke
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, mesquite liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the venison to the marinade, making sure it’s coated evenly.
4. Place the marinated deer meat on wire racks set over baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
5. Dry in the oven for 6-8 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Rosemary Garlic Deer Jerky

Rosemary Garlic Deer Jerky
Rosemary Garlic Deer Jerky Recipe

Take your game day snacks to the next level with this savory and aromatic deer jerky recipe, infused with the bold flavors of rosemary and garlic.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison strips (deer meat), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 170°F (75°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Add the venison strips to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the deer jerky from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place the venison strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the jerky reaches desired level of dryness and chewiness.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Lemon Pepper Deer Jerky

Lemon Pepper Deer Jerky
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your deer jerky with this refreshing twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison (deer meat), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add the deer strips to the mixture and toss until coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the deer strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Cherry Wood Smoked Deer Jerky

Cherry Wood Smoked Deer Jerky
Experience the rich flavor of smoked deer jerky infused with the sweetness of cherry wood smoke. This recipe is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike, offering a deliciously savory snack that’s easy to make.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison (deer meat), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cherry wood chips or chunks for smoking

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 160°F (71°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced deer meat to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the jerky from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the jerky on a smoker rack or a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet.
6. Smoke the jerky for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness and flavor.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the savory flavors of deer jerky with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic smoked to spicy garlic, sweet chili to hot pepper, there’s something for every snack lover. Try Honey BBQ Deer Jerky or Maple Bourbon Deer Jerky for a hint of sweetness, or opt for Teriyaki Deer Jerky and Peppered Deer Jerky for a savory kick. If you like a little heat, Jalapeño Lime Deer Jerky is the perfect choice. With so many flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite snack.

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment