Savory Pork Jerky Recipe:
Sweet, Salty & Smoky Perfection

Photo of Susan Gast
Susan Gast, Author and Food Preservation Enthusiast
Susan has been dehydrating and preserving foods for over a decade, sharing practical, tested methods that help readers make healthy, long-lasting meals at home.

Looking for a chewy, flavorful, and protein-packed snack that’s different from beef jerky? This savory pork jerky recipe delivers smoky, salty, and slightly sweet perfection. Pork’s natural tenderness makes it juicier than beef, giving you a snack that’s both satisfying and long-lasting.

✅ Quick Answer: How do you make a savory pork jerky recipe?
Slice pork thin, marinate it in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and spices, then dehydrate at 160°F for 6–8 hours until chewy and tender. Store in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags for up to three weeks.

When you make it yourself, you skip preservatives and control the ingredients. That means fresher, healthier jerky with just the right amount of heat, sweetness, or smokiness — perfect for hiking, road trips, or everyday snacking.

Pork Jerky Marinade Recipe

This easy pork jerky recipe strikes a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and smoky flavors with its rich marinade featuring soy sauce, brown sugar, and an irresistible blend of spices.

The slow dehydration process enhances the flavors while maintaining the ideal chewy yet tender texture.

Prefer it with a bit of heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of honey sriracha for an extra kick. Looking for a smoky BBQ twist? A touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke can take this jerky to the next level.

No matter how you customize it, this homemade pork jerky will keep you coming back for more!

Top of Recipe

Savory Pork Jerky Recipe

This bold and flavorful pork jerky marinade is perfect for on-the-go fun, camping, or home snacking and the blend of sweet, salty, and spicy elements turns ordinary pork into a chewy, savory treat.

With soy sauce, garlic, and spices infusing every bite, this is a DIY snack you won’t want to miss!

When dried, the pork develops a chewy texture and a rich, concentrated flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 pounds pork loin, sliced thinly against the grain

Instructions

  1. Combine Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  2. Prepare Pork: Slice the pork loin into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help the marinade penetrate more effectively.
  3. Marinate: Place the pork strips in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
  4. Dry the Pork: After marinating, remove the pork from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange the strips on a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Dehydrate: If using a dehydrator, set it to 160°F (70°C) and dry for 6-8 hours until the jerky is dry and chewy. If using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature (around 160°F) and leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape, drying for 4-6 hours.
  6. Store: Once the jerky is done, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade pork jerky as a delicious and protein-packed snack!

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 6 hours
  • Drying Time: 6-8 hours
  • Minimum Time: 12 hours

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 10 servings
  • Calories: 150kcals
  • Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
Bottom of Recipe

How to Keep Pork Jerky Fresh Longer (Storage Secrets)

Pork jerky has a natural sweetness, but it can also be slightly more moisture-sensitive than beef or chicken. The best way to store it is in a vacuum-sealed bag for long-term storage because we remove excess air.

If kept in a cool, dark place, your pork jerky should last two to three weeks, but refrigeration extends its freshness significantly.

Consider using Mason jars for daily snacking needs! These jars look great on pantry shelves or in a row on your kitchen counter top, plus you can easily see what's in them.

Also because the Mason jars are stored at room temperature, add an oxygen absorber packet inside the jar which helps prevent excess moisture. Lean which size absorber to use here. Also, consider adding a desiccant packet too. This is especially useful in humid climates, where jerky may spoil faster.

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Creative Ways to Cook with Pork Jerky

Beyond snacking, pork jerky makes a great ingredient in fried rice, soups, or as a crispy topping for baked potatoes.

Chop it into small pieces and stir it into scrambled eggs for a smoky breakfast upgrade!

You can even use it as a topping for ramen or pho, adding an extra umami boost.

Flavor Twists: How to Customize Your Pork Jerky

One of the best things about making homemade pork jerky is customizing the flavors.

Try adding maple syrup for a smoky-sweet bite or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy finish.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed chipotle peppers or cayenne to your marinade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pork Jerky

Can I make pork jerky safely at home?

Yes! As long as you dehydrate pork at 160°F (70°C) until fully cooked and chewy, it’s safe to eat. Always store in airtight containers to prevent spoilage.

How long does homemade pork jerky last?

In vacuum-sealed bags or airtight jars, pork jerky lasts 2–3 weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.

What cuts of pork work best for jerky?

Lean cuts like pork loin or tenderloin are ideal. Avoid fatty cuts, as excess fat spoils faster.

Can I make pork jerky in the oven instead of a dehydrator?

Yes! Set your oven to the lowest setting (around 160°F) and keep the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.

Head over to the homemade jerky hub page to find easy recipes for beef, chicken, turkey, fish and hot honey chicken jerky - each packed with bold, delicious flavors.

If you're having issues with your jerky-making, check out my Jerky Troubleshooting Guide here.

Now that you’ve mastered this savory pork jerky recipe, you’ll never run out of flavorful, chewy snacks - whether you’re on the go or relaxing at home.

And before you head off, don’t forget to grab your free 5 Dried Food Recipes You’ll Actually Love PDF (below). From soups like carrot, split pea, and minestrone to banana cinnamon rolls and even spicy beef jerky, these are tried-and-true favorites you won’t want to miss.

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