Category: From the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Dehydrated Mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I’ve really been enjoying my dehydrator. I’m always looking for more things to dry, taking advantage of anything in season or fresh. I recently grabbed a few pounds of oyster and shiitake mushrooms with the goal of drying them for later use in stir-fries or soups. I found that drying them is incredibly easy. Rinse, dry, slice (if you want) and dry. Done. Dehydrated mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro are amazing.

Dehydrated Mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Storing The Results

I store the dehydrated mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro in resealable baggies or Mason jars. Whenever I need them I just grab them and toss them into the dish. If the recipe I’m using them in doesn’t contain a lot of liquid that can be used to re-hydrate the mushrooms I’ll first toss them into some warm water for a few minutes.

Don’t Slice Them Too Small

If you decide to slice your mushrooms don’t cut them too small. They shrink a lot as they dry, and if you cut them too small they will crumble too easily and can fall thru the holes in the trays on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. I prefer to keep the mushrooms as whole as possible since you never know how you might use the mushrooms in the end. You can always cut the larger pieces later, but you can’t make the smaller pieces bigger!

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

You can dehydrate darn near anything on a Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Even marshmallows.

Dehydrated Mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Dehydrated Mushrooms on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I recently grabbed a few pounds of oyster and shiitake mushrooms with the goal of drying them for later use in stir-fries or soups. I found that drying them is incredibly easy. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword dehydrator, mushroom, nesco snackmaster pro
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings 1 pound
Calories 200kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds mushrooms

Instructions

  • Rinse the mushrooms.
  • Trim any hard stems and slice if desired.
  • Pat mushrooms dry and place on screens on the Nesco trays. Do not overlap.
  • Set the dehydrator to 100 F and dry for 8 hours, checking on the mushrooms after 6 hours. Thinner smaller mushrooms will dry sooner.
  • Remove when mushrooms are as dry as you want.

Notes

Store in an air-tight container, such as a Mason jar with a lid.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 45mg | Potassium: 2885mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Cajun Ground Beef Jerky Strips on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

After I picked up a new Nesco Snackmaster Pro my first attempt at jerky was making Cajun jerky using sliced top round. Everyone loved it. I decided then to make the same flavor jerky, but using ground beef instead. I knew it’d taste great, and I was hoping for a more Slim Jim-like texture. And I got it. Just the perfect bite. Not too tough, not too soft. And packed with Cajun-inspired flavors (with just a bit of a kick!). Cajun Ground Beef Jerky Strips on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro are addictingly great!

Leaner Meats Make Better Jerky

Just like making regular jerky, you have to start with a lean meat. I used top round which I ground myself. You can substitute any lean beef, but make sure it doesn’t have more than 8% fat. Less is more in this case.

Cajun Ground Beef Jerky Strips on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I Love My Jerky Cannon!

Also, you’ll need a jerky cannon to make jerky from ground meat. I had never heard of such a thing. But now that I have one, it’s like the most fun kitchen gadget ever. It’s essentially a large caulk gun that dispenses ground meat. It makes making Cajun Ground Beef Jerky Strips on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro fun!

More Trays Mean More Jerky

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Also try my ground turkey jerky, made using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Cajun Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro - Version 2
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cajun Ground Beef Jerky Strips on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

After I picked up a new Nesco Snackmaster Pro my first attempt at jerky was making Cajun jerky using sliced top round. Everyone loved it. I decided then to make the same flavor jerky, but using ground beef instead.
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword beef, Cajun, dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 1 pound
Calories 1265kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, red pepper flake if using, curing salt and water. Pour over the meat and seal. Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and add to a jerky gun. Squeeze out onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays (bottom to top) every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good. It’s really personal preference as to how you like your jerky. Soft, chewy, crunchy. There’s no wrong here.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 2 pounds of meat. You’ll end up with about 1 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5-6 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 1265kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 195g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 562mg | Sodium: 736mg | Potassium: 3295mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2372IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 112mg | Iron: 23mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Sweet Habanero Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I have been loving making jerky on my dehydrator. I’ve been using ground top round for my ground beef jerky, but any lean ground meat will work. This sweet habanero ground beef jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro has a really nice spicy kick to it, but it’s not so hot that you don’t also enjoy a bit of the sweetness. It’s definitely not candy-like. More like grown-up candy.

Sweet Habanero Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Remember To Rotate Your Trays

Make sure you rotate your trays every 2 hours or so when making sweet habanero ground beef jerky on your Nesco Snackmaster Pro. The bottom trays will not dry as quickly as those on top. Rotating the trays will give you nice, even drying and perfect jerky on every level.

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Try these other great jerky flavors from Eastman Outdoors: spicy jalapeno, Cajun, whiskey pepper, mesquite, sweet barbecue and hickory.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Sweet Habanero Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
1 from 1 vote

Sweet Habanero Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

This sweet habanero ground beef jerky has a really nice spicy kick to it, but it’s not so hot that you don’t also enjoy a bit of the sweetness. 
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword beef, Big Easy, Char-Broil, jerky
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 1 pound
Calories 2304kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • NOTE: The package for the Eastman Outdoors jerky seasoning states that it makes up to 5 pounds of jerky. I personally feel that the flavor is too mellow, so I use just about an entire package for 1 pound of jerky. I end up with a little left over seasoning, which I store in a labelled air-tight container. I’ll eventually mix it with more seasoning. I think I can get 3 pounds of well-seasoning jerky out of two packages of Eastman Outdoors mix.
  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, curing salt and water. Pour over the meat and seal. Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and add to a jerky gun. Squeeze out onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays (bottom to top) every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good. It’s really personal preference as to how you like your jerky. Soft, chewy, crunchy. There’s no wrong here.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 1 pound of meat. You’ll end up with about 1/2 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5-6 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 2304kcal | Protein: 156g | Fat: 181g | Saturated Fat: 70g | Trans Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 644mg | Sodium: 614mg | Potassium: 2449mg | Calcium: 167mg | Iron: 18mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Hickory Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I love making jerky on my dehydrator. I’ve been using ground top round for my ground beef jerky, but any lean ground meat will work. This hickory ground beef jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro has a nice mellow smoky hickory flavor that is definitely not overwhelming. The meat has the perfect ‘bite’, just a little tug.

Hickory Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Rotate Your Trays…

Make sure you rotate your trays every 2 hours or so when you make hickory ground beef jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. The bottom trays will not dry as quickly as those on top. Rotating the trays will give you nice, even drying and perfect jerky on every level.

… And Have Extra Trays

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Try these other great jerky flavors from Eastman Outdoors: spicy jalapeno, Cajun, whiskey pepper, mesquite and sweet habanero.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Hickory Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Hickory Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

This hickory ground beef jerky has a nice mellow smoky hickory flavor that is definitely not overwhelming. The meat has the perfect ‘bite’, just a little tug.
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword BBQ, beef, dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro, sweet
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 1 pound
Calories 1243kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • NOTE: The package for the Eastman Outdoors jerky seasoning states that it makes up to 5 pounds of jerky. I personally feel that the flavor is too mellow, so I use just about an entire package for 1 pound of jerky. I end up with a little left over seasoning, which I store in a labelled air-tight container. I’ll eventually mix it with more seasoning. I think I can get 3 pounds of well-seasoning jerky out of two packages of Eastman Outdoors mix.
  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, curing salt and water.
  • Pour over the meat and seal.
  • Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and add to a jerky gun.
  • Squeeze out onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays (bottom to top) every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good. It’s really personal preference as to how you like your jerky. Soft, chewy, crunchy. There’s no wrong here.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 1 pound of meat. You’ll end up with about 1/2 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5-6 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 1243kcal | Protein: 194g | Fat: 45g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 562mg | Sodium: 605mg | Potassium: 3139mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 22mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Ground Turkey Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I have been enjoying great success with my new Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Of course the most popular items have been the various jerky flavors that I’ve made. And so far, I’ve just made jerky using beef. Not everyone can handle beef, so I decided to try my hand at making jerky using ground turkey. I have to say, I was pretty pessimistic going in. I’m not always a big fan of ground turkey (I think it’s a textural thing), but boy, were my fears unfounded! Ground turkey jerky (say it 10 times fast, it’s fun!) is absolutely fantastic! It’s tender, and oh so flavorful. Heck, my wife likes it better than my beef jerky.

Ground Turkey Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Kinda Like A Slim Jim

You just can’t go wrong with ground turkey jerky. I can’t wait to make this again. I started using a standard almost-Slim Jim-like flavoring. Nice and neutral, without any heat, so it could be enjoyed by anyone. I’ll soon try other flavors with more kick, but there’s definitely nothing but good about this jerky.

Do not skip the final step of placing the dried jerky in the oven for 30 minutes. Better safe than sorry with poultry!

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Also try my Cajun ground beef jerky, made using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Ground Turkey Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Ground Turkey Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Ground turkey jerky (say it 10 times fast, it’s fun!) is absolutely fantastic! It’s tender, and oh so flavorful. 
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro, turkey
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 8
Calories 64kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place turkey in a large bowl.
  • Whisk together the remaining ingredients and add to the turkey.
  • Combine well.
  • Transfer to a resealable container or baggie and refrigerate overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 165 F.
  • Load the meat into a jerky gun and squeeze out onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Do not let the meat touch or overlap.
  • Transfer trays to oven an cook until internal temperature reaches 165 F.
  • Transfer jerky to the Snackmaster Pro set on the highest temperature (see note below!) and dry for 6 hours. Test for doneness every hour by bending the jerky. If it bends without tearing it is not dry enough. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done.
  • Let cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

It is important that your dehydrator reach a safe temperature of at least 16F F. If yours cannot attain and sustain that temperature, first place the jerky in a 175 F oven until the meat reaches 16F F.
This recipe scales up very easily. You can make about 1 pound of jerky per every 2 trays. You’ll also need a jerky gun (see below).

Nutrition

Calories: 64kcal | Protein: 13g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 29mg | Potassium: 167mg | Vitamin A: 14IU | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Peppered Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I love making jerky on my dehydrator. It’s so easy to do and everyone has really enjoyed the end results. Any lean ground meat will work, but I prefer grinding my own top round. This peppered ground beef jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro has a nice mellow pepper flavor that is definitely not overwhelming. The meat has the perfect ‘bite’, just a little tug

Peppered Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Everyone Needs A Jerky Cannon

I use a jerky cannon to make ground beef jerky. It’s essentially a huge caulk gun that, when loaded with seasoned ground meat, shoots out the perfectly-shaped jerky every time.

Make sure you rotate your trays every 2 hours or so when making peppered ground beef jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. The bottom trays will not dry as quickly as those on top. Rotating the trays will give you nice, even drying and perfect jerky on every level.

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Also try my sliced peppered jerky.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Peppered Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Peppered Ground Beef Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I love making jerky on my dehydrator. It’s so easy to do and everyone has really enjoyed the end results. Any lean ground meat will work, but I prefer grinding my own top round. 
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword beef, dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 0.5 pounds
Calories 1265kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, red pepper flake if using, curing salt and water.
  • Pour over the meat and seal. Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and add to a jerky gun.
  • Squeeze out onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays (bottom to top) every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good. It’s really personal preference as to how you like your jerky. Soft, chewy, crunchy. There’s no wrong here.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 1 pound of meat. You’ll end up with about 1/2 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5-6 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 1265kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 195g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 562mg | Sodium: 736mg | Potassium: 3295mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2372IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 112mg | Iron: 23mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Bacon Bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I recently picked up a dehydrator and boy, have I been having a fun time with it. I’ve made beef jerky. Ground beef jerky. Ground turkey jerky. Dried fruits. And now? Bacon bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Fantastic, dried, crunchy, not-fatty-yucky bacon bits. 100% bacon, 100% flavor. And so easy, just like everything else I’ve made on my dehydrator.

Bacon Bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

The Secret To Great Bacon Bits

The key to making perfect bacon bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro is: pat. Pat with paper towels every chance you get and then pat some more. The less fat left in the end the crispier your bacon bits. Also, fat goes rancid much quicker than meat, so reducing it will increase the shelf-life of your bits. Although, I have to say, the bacon bits I made didn’t last very long around here at all.

Storing Your Bits

I stored my bacon bits in an air-tight container in the fridge. I made extra and frozen them for later use. And, nice thing is, I don’t really have to defrost them for long to use them in a recipe. For salads, I just set them out for 10-15 minutes ahead of time to let them defrost.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

You can also make chipotles in adobo, using your Nesco dehydrator. Just like these homemade bacon bits, they’re much better than store-bought!

Bacon Bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon Bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Bacon bits on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Fantastic, dried, crunchy, not-fatty-yucky bacon bits. 100% bacon, 100% flavor. And so easy, just like everything else I’ve made on my dehydrator.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, dehydrator, nesco snackmaster pro
Cook Time 12 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 30 minutes
Servings 1 pound
Calories 3783kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds bacon thin-sliced, smoked

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400 F.
  • Line a baking sheet (or sheets, depending on how much bacon you’re making at a time) with foil.
  • Add bacon, but do not overlap.
  • Bake for 20 minutes. Flip and continue baking until crispy. NOTE: I normally like my bacon less than super crispy. This is not the time to do that. You want the bacon crispy with no soft fatty ends.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and pat dry. Be thorough. You want to get as much fat off the bacon as possible.
  • Crumble bacon. Pat again with paper towels. Remember, your goal is to get as much fat off as possible.
  • Cut parchment paper to the same size as the mesh trays. Fold in half, making a half moon, then in half again, forming what looks like a piece of pizza and cut about an inch rectangle off the sharp corner. When you unfold it the parchment paper should have a square hole in the middle about the size of the hole in the center of the Snackmaster Pro trays. This will make sure that the air circulates well.
  • Line Snackmaster Pro trays with parchment paper and add the screen trays.
  • Add the crumbled bacon, spreading it out as much as possible so it doesn’t touch.
  • Place trays into the Snackmaster Pro on the highest temperature.
  • Dry for 12-20 hours. Every two hours take the bottom two trays and move them to the top of the stack so that the bacon dries evenly. Also pat the bacon with paper towels again.
  • When the bacon is dried remove to paper towel and let cool.
  • Keep in the fridge until ready to use.

Notes

You’ll need 2 screen trays and two trays per pound of bacon. Remember to always have at least 4 trays in the Nesco Snackmaster Pro when using it.

Nutrition

Calories: 3783kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 114g | Fat: 360g | Saturated Fat: 121g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 599mg | Sodium: 6006mg | Potassium: 1796mg | Vitamin A: 336IU | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Peppered Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

This peppered jerky was my second (very successful) attempt at making jerky on my newly-acquired Nesco Snackmaster Pro dehydrator. I (and my neighbors) were very pleased with the first batch which was Cajun-flavored. I followed the same simple process and in 14 hours we were all enjoying peppered jerky. The jerky had a nice light pepper flavor with just a bit of spicy kick. The pepper was not overwhelming at all, but it was there just enough to be very enjoyable. You can leave out the heat, but I always prefer a bit of kick to my jerky.

Peppered Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

The Keys To Success

If this is your first time using your Snackmaster Pro to make jerky, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way so far. First, start with lean beef (I prefer top round). Place the beef into the freeze for about 90 minutes then slice it thin (1/4″ or slightly thinner) using a meat slicer.

Second, follow the recipe below. No shortcuts. The marinade may have a strong odor at first, but that’s normal. Last, don’t over-dry the meat. Check it after 5 hours, or sooner if you cut your meat thinner than 3/16″ thick. Bend the jerky in the middle. If it just starts to tear it’s done. If it just bends, you need to dry it longer. Once you do a batch you’ll have the process down to an art and you’ll be enjoying peppered jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro in no time!

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Also try my ground beef peppered jerky.

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Peppered Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Peppered Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

This jerky had a nice light pepper flavor with just a bit of spicy kick. The pepper was not overwhelming at all, but it was there just enough to be very enjoyable. 
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 1 /2 pound
Calories 646kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, red pepper flake if using, curing salt and water.
  • Pour over the meat and seal. Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and place flat onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays from bottom to top every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 1 pound of meat. You’ll end up with about 1/2 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5-6 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 103g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 286mg | Sodium: 327mg | Potassium: 1675mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1186IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 10mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray

Cajun Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

A friend of mine recently let me sample some of his homemade beef jerky. I thought it was the best jerky I’d ever had, so I picked his brain and found out which dehydrator he had.  That of course meant that I needed one, so I got one and got to work. My first attempt at jerky was this Cajun jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Boy, was I (and my neighbors) impressed! In about 14 hours we were all chowing down on perfectly-dried, lightly spicy Cajun beef jerky. Fantastic!

Cajun Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

You Can’t Beat The Snackmaster Pro

This was my first time making Cajun Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro, so I made sure to take very good notes for future batches. I’ve made teriyaki and black pepper jerky on my smoker before with great success, but I found that the Nesco Snackmaster Pro made the process 100 times easier. And although I usually prefer making my own spice mixes, I’ve opted to stick with pre-made flavorings for now.

More Trays Means More Jerky

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

Check out my guide to using the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. You will be making fantastic jerky at home in no time at all!

Cajun Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cajun Jerky on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

My first attempt at jerky was this Cajun jerky. Boy, was I (and my neighbors) impressed! 
Course Dehydrator
Cuisine Jerky
Keyword Cajun, dehydrator, jerky, nesco snackmaster pro
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings 1 batch
Calories 646kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place beef in a resealable bag or container.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the seasoning, red pepper flake if using, curing salt and water. Pour over the meat and seal. Shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate the meat for up to 8 hours, shaking or massaging every hour or so to get the marinade distributed and absorbed evenly.
  • Remove meat from the marinade and place flat onto Nesco trays. Do not overlap meat.
  • Add the dehydrator top, set to maximum temperature setting and dehydrate for 5 hours, rotating the trays bottom to top every 2 hours or so.
  • To test for doneness remove a piece and let cool slightly. Try to bend the meat. If it gives and starts to tear at the bend it is done. If it bends without tearing return to the dehydrator and let it run another 15 minutes and test again. If the meat is crunchy it is overdone but still good. It’s really personal preference as to how you like your jerky. Soft, chewy, crunchy. There’s no wrong here.
  • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This recipe is for starting with 1 pound of meat. You’ll end up with about 1/2 pound in the end. You can easily double/triple/etc this recipe for large quantities of meat, however 5 pounds is about all you can fit onto a Nesco Snackmaster Pro fitted with 12 trays (the unit comes with 5).

Nutrition

Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 103g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 286mg | Sodium: 327mg | Potassium: 1675mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1186IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 10mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2" Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO LT-2SG Plastic 13 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, accessory, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray
NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, For Snacks, Fruit, Beef Jerky, Gray