Beef Stick(Like Hickory Farms)
Savory homemade beef sticks with smoky, peppery flavors, perfect for gift-giving or a tasty snack. Customizable and ideal for meat lovers and holiday treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients in a bowl.
- Cover the mixture in an airtight container.
- Shake or mix for 5 minutes daily over 4 days, totaling 5 days.
- On the fifth day, divide the mixture into 6 rolls.
- Bake the rolls for 5 hours at 200°F on a rack over a cookie sheet.
- Refrigerate or freeze the beef sticks before serving.
- Great for Christmas gifts or snacking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you prefer a smokier flavor, increase the liquid smoke slightly. To ensure even seasoning, let the mixture rest longer before shaping. For easier slicing, chill the beef sticks after baking; this helps maintain their shape. Adjust the peppercorns based on your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
These beef sticks make a fantastic snack on their own or can be served with cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer platter. Pair them with a spicy mustard for dipping or include them in a charcuterie board alongside fruits and nuts. They also make great gifts during the holiday season, just like Aunt Joan'S Ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer preservation, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 200°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stick(Like Hickory Farms) contains roughly 207 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly. If using pork, consider adding a bit of fat to keep the sticks juicy.
What if I don't have liquid smoke?
If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can mimic the smoky flavor by adding smoked paprika or by using a grill instead of the oven for cooking. Alternatively, you can skip the smoke flavor entirely for a different yet delicious taste.
How do I know when the beef sticks are done baking?
The beef sticks are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check this. They should also have a firm texture without being overly dry. Keep an eye on them during the baking process to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).