Homemade Beef Sticks Recipe (Smoky & Protein-Packed Snack)

These Homemade Beef Sticks are the ultimate high-protein snack—perfectly seasoned, slightly smoky, and made without fillers or preservatives. Whether you bake or smoke them, these beef sticks are ideal for meal prep, hiking, or keto-friendly snacking.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lean ground beef (85–90%)
• 1 tsp curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked if desired)
• ½ cup ice-cold water
• Collagen or natural casings (optional, for traditional shape)

Directions

1. Mix the meat: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine ground beef with curing salt, spices, and ice water. Mix thoroughly for 5–10 minutes until tacky.
2. Cure the meat: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24–48 hours to allow curing.
3. Prepare casings: If using natural or collagen casings, soak them according to package instructions.
4. Stuff the casings: Load the beef mixture into a sausage stuffer and fill the casings, twisting or tying them into sticks about 6 inches long.
5. Dry the sticks: Let the beef sticks sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours or until the casings feel dry to the touch.
6. Cook:
7. Oven: Bake at 170°F (77°C) for 6–8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Rotate occasionally.
8. Smoker: Smoke at 160°F (71°C) for 6 hours, using hickory or applewood chips.
9. Cool & store: Cool completely. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or vacuum-seal and freeze for longer shelf life.