From deep-fried turkeys to the infamous turduckens, there’s no one way to do Thanksgiving.
You can get as adventurous or creative as you want with the main meal while still making sure tradition remains intact.
That’s the beauty of a beef jerky Thanksgiving. The flavor-forward, bold and zesty varieties are an unconventional upgrade no one will see coming.
Put your own spin on ultra-savory side dishes or introduce a spicy snack by adding beef and bacon jerky flavors to your Thanksgiving table.
Crumble Bacon Jerky into Brussels Sprouts
It’s been proven that bacon elevates Brussels sprouts from their boring veggie status into something truly craveworthy.
For a simple variation, roast the sprouts to get some char and add a smoky, savory, and slightly sweet crunch with a bacon jerky crumble and maple syrup glaze.
This simple bacon jerky recipe does the heavy lifting, but leaves you looking like a culinary star.
Zesty Jerk Beef Jerky in Stuffing
Spice up ho-hum stuffing with chopped pieces of Zesty Jerk Beef Jerky for added flavor and spice.
The beef jerky texture will soften a little when baked and add a surprise hint of heat that gives this traditional side dish a savory boost.
Teriyaki Beef Jerky as Cocktail Garnish
Put a twist on a cocktail hour by garnishing Old Fashioneds, Bloody Marys, or other beverages of choice with smoky strips of the Bold Teriyaki Premium Beef Jerky or Bourbon Glaze Uncured Bacon Jerky.
The salty, savory flavor pairs well with the smooth whiskey or vodka finish for a pairing bold enough to satisfy any Thanksgiving crew.
Sweet Heat Jerky on a Snack Board
Get bold Thanksgiving flavors with a quick and tasty snack board that guests can graze on all day long without feeling low energy.
Beef and bacon jerky adds protein, and when paired with seasonal cheeses, dried fruit, spiced nuts, and hot honey, no one will be left feeling hangry.
Smoky Jerky in Mac & Cheese
Another way to spice up traditional Thanksgiving sides with jerky is by using it for a bold upgrade to mac and cheese.
Crumbles of bacon jerky elevate the flavor and give it the added salt and pepperiness to make it a signature dish.
Jerky-Blanketed Asparagus
This bacon jerky recipe is a twist on the steakhouse classic. Arrange asparagus in a single layer and lay strips of bacon jerky directly on top, versus wrapped around the stalk.
Drizzle with olive oil and a balsamic glaze, and let the moisture infuse the jerky flavor right into the asparagus for a no-fuss, smoky holiday appetizer.
Jerky as a Post-Feast Snack
For protein-rich, savory snack ideas for Thanksgiving, beef jerky fits the bill every time. It lets recharge energy levels without being tempted by a leftover overload.
Whether you have a “turkey trot” 5K on the agenda or a hike after indulging in the big meal, you’ll still need fuel, and resealable snack packs of beef jerky are easy to take on the go.
Give Thanks for Savage Jerky
What do you say about skipping the same old, same old this year and adding unexpected twists to traditional holiday dishes?
Make it a beef jerky Thanksgiving and keep energy levels high for whatever adventures the day holds.