Bacon and beef jerky—are two of the most beloved snacks among meat enthusiasts. But what happens when you combine bacon’s salty, smoky flavor with the chewy, hearty goodness of beef jerky? You get bacon beef jerky, the ultimate treat for snack lovers and foodies.
This blog covers everything you need to know about bacon beef jerky. We’ll cover its origins, what makes it unique, and the best ways to enjoy it.
What is Bacon Beef Jerky?
Bacon beef jerky combines two meat-based delights into one irresistible snack. While traditional jerky is typically made from lean cuts of dried and seasoned beef, bacon beef jerky incorporates the flavor of smoky cured bacon.
This delicious snack takes advantage of bacon’s rich, savory taste while maintaining the chewy, protein-packed profile that makes beef jerky such a popular treat. It combines salty-sweet flavor combinations with textures that vary from crispy to tender. Is your mouth watering yet?
Why Bacon Beef Jerky Stands Out
What sets bacon beef jerky apart from its traditional counterparts is the fusion of two iconic flavors:
Bacon’s Smoky Goodness: Everyone knows and loves bacon’s bold, smoky, slightly fatty flavor. This flavor adds a new dimension to jerky’s more straightforward savory profile.
Beef’s Protein Punch: While bacon can sometimes be high in fats, beef jerky balances it by adding lean protein. The result? A snack that satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs.
Sweet or Savory Customization: Many bacon beef jerky options are flavored with exciting additions like maple, honey, or barbecue spices, making them versatile and great for different palates.
Unsurprisingly, this snack has quickly become a favorite for road trips, camping adventures, and even as a post-workout pick-me-up.
Health Benefits of Bacon Beef Jerky
You might not immediately think of health benefits when you hear “bacon” and “snack” in the same sentence. But bacon beef jerky can fit into a healthy lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s how:
High Protein Content
Jerky is an excellent source of protein, with many brands offering up to 10–12 grams of protein per serving. This helps fuel your muscles and keeps hunger at bay.
Low Carb Option
Many bacon beef jerky varieties are keto-friendly, making them perfect for those on low-carb diets. Skip the chips and grab jerky instead.
Portable and Shelf-Stable
Need an on-the-go snack that doesn’t require refrigeration? Bacon beef jerky fits the bill. It’s long-lasting and easy to pack, making it ideal for those with active lifestyles.
Keep in mind, though, that jerky products can be high in sodium due to curing and seasoning. Enjoy the snack as part of a balanced diet.
How is Bacon Beef Jerky Made?
Much of the magic behind bacon beef jerky comes from its preparation process. Here’s a quick breakdown of how this delicious snack is typically made:
Choosing the Meat
High-quality beef (often cuts like brisket or top round) is selected for its meaty texture, while premium-quality bacon is chosen for its rich flavor.
Marination
The meats are marinated in seasonings, spices, and sometimes sweeteners like maple syrup. This step infuses the meats with flavor.
Curing and Drying
The marinated meats are cured to lock in moisture and flavor, followed by slow drying in low heat to create the ideal jerky texture. Bacon pieces are often added during curing for smokiness.
Final Touches
Referred to as glazing or seasoning, some chefs coat the jerky with an extra layer of flavors, such as cracked black pepper, chili flakes, or brown sugar, for a sweet-and-savory touch.
The result is smoky, flavorful bacon beef jerky ready to be enjoyed.
Popular Flavors You Need to Try
One of the best parts about bacon beef jerky is the variety of flavors available. Here are some tasty options to explore:
Maple-Glazed Bacon Beef Jerky
For those who love a sweet touch, the maple glaze pairs perfectly with the smoky, savory meat.
Spicy Sriracha Bacon Beef Jerky
Add some heat to your snack with hints of bold sriracha spice.
Black Pepper Bacon Beef Jerky
A simple yet robust choice featuring coarse black pepper for a classic flavor profile.
Honey Barbecue
A sweet, tangy, and smoky option that’ll transport your taste buds to a summer BBQ.
Candied Bacon Strips
Pieces of bacon beef jerky that have been candied with brown sugar to create a crunchy, caramelized coating.
What’s your go-to flavor? Feel free to mix and match to discover your favorite.
The Best Ways to Enjoy Bacon Beef Jerky
Bacon beef jerky is versatile beyond just being a snack. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your eats:
Snack Boards
Add it to a charcuterie board alongside cheese, nuts, and dried fruit for a crave-worthy spread.
Toppings for Salads or Baked Potatoes
Crumble it up as a crunchy topping on salads, baked potatoes, or scrambled eggs.
Sandwich Add-On
Level up your sandwiches by adding slices of bacon beef jerky for extra flavor.
Trail Mix Enhancer
Throw pieces of jerky into your homemade trail mix for a salty protein boost.
Cocktail Garnishes
Impress your guests with a bacon beef jerky strip as a garnish in Bloody Marys.
The possibilities are endless—it’s time to get creative!
Where to Buy the Best Bacon Beef Jerky
If you’re ready to try this mouthwatering snack, you might wonder where to find the best options. Here are a few places to look:
Specialty Food Stores
Gourmet grocery stores often carry artisan bacon beef jerky.
Online Retailers
Websites like Amazon and specialty jerky sellers allow you to browse and purchase from various brands.
Local Farmers’ Markets
Many local vendors offer homemade, unique flavored bacon beef jerky.
DIY Recipes
Feeling ambitious? There are plenty of recipes online for making bacon beef jerky at home.
Make Bacon Beef Jerky Your New Favorite Snack
What are you waiting for if you haven’t tried bacon beef jerky yet? Its unbeatable combination of flavor, portability, and versatility makes it a meat snack enthusiast’s dream come true.
Whether you’re looking for a high-protein snack, exploring new flavors, or need a trusty road trip companion, bacon beef jerky delivers on all fronts. Grab a bag today—or, better yet, try making your own—and experience why this snack is a hit among foodies!
