How to Make Beef Sticks: A Complete Guide to Healthy, High-Protein Snacks
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Beef sticks have earned a reputation as one of America’s favorite snacks, from the gym bag to the hiking trail. Their smoky, savory flavor, satisfying chew, and convenient packaging make them perfect for anyone on the go. But have you ever wondered how to make beef sticks yourself, or what goes into creating the best beef sticks?
At Wisconsin River Meats, we’ve been crafting premium smoked meats for decades using time-honored recipes and traditional methods. In this article, we’ll walk you through what makes a great beef stick, how to make beef sticks at home, and how to enjoy them as part of a healthy, protein-rich diet.
If you’re searching for a homemade beef sticks recipe or wondering what ingredients go into authentic beef sticks, this guide will have you covered from start to finish.
What Are Beef Sticks?
Beef sticks are fully cooked, cured meat snacks made from seasoned ground beef. Unlike jerky, which is dried and chewy, beef sticks retain moisture for a juicier, tender bite and a richer smoky flavor.
Traditionally, beef sticks are stuffed into casings, slowly smoked over hardwood, and vacuum-sealed for freshness. They offer high protein in a portable form, making them perfect for busy lifestyles.
Benefits of Beef Sticks
When made properly, beef sticks offer more than just flavor — they’re a truly functional snack.
High in Protein
Beef sticks deliver a complete source of protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs. Protein is vital for muscle repair, energy production, and long-lasting satiety.
Packed with Nutrients
Beef naturally contains essential micronutrients such as:
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Iron, which supports healthy oxygen transport
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Zinc, which boosts immune health
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B vitamins, which help convert food into energy
These nutrients make beef sticks far more than an empty-calorie snack.
Portable and Convenient
From lunchboxes to hunting trips, beef sticks are easy to pack and require no preparation. They’re ideal for anyone needing a quick, satisfying boost of protein on the go.
What Goes Into Beef Sticks?
If you’ve ever wondered about beef stick ingredients, the answer is surprisingly simple when you choose high-quality products. Traditional beef sticks use:
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Premium ground beef
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Salt, including curing salt for food safety
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Natural spices like garlic, black pepper, and paprika
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Real hardwood smoke
At Wisconsin River Meats, our beef sticks use only premium beef, a time-tested blend of spices, and authentic hardwood smoke — never artificial preservatives or liquid smoke. See our beef stick options here.
How to Make Beef Sticks at Home
Learning how to make beef sticks at home can be a fun and rewarding project. If you have a smoker or dehydrator, you can create a homemade beef sticks recipe with straightforward ingredients and simple tools.
Ingredients for Homemade Beef Sticks
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5 pounds lean ground beef (about 85–90% lean)
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1 tablespoon curing salt (Prague Powder #1 or natural celery powder)
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1/4 cup non-iodized salt
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2 tablespoons black pepper
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 cup ice water
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Natural or collagen casings
Equipment You’ll Need
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Meat grinder (if starting with whole cuts)
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Sausage stuffer
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Smoker or dehydrator
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Sharp knife
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Kitchen scale
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Food-safe gloves
Step-by-Step Beef Stick Recipe
Mix Your Spices
Combine all the dry spices and curing salt in a bowl.
Blend with the Beef
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with the spices and ice water until it is tacky and well-blended.
Stuff the Casings
Load the beef mixture into a sausage stuffer and fill the casings, twisting into 6-inch sticks.
Rest Before Smoking
Allow the beef sticks to rest in the refrigerator for 12–24 hours. This lets the flavors develop and the curing salt work properly.
Smoke the Beef Sticks
Preheat your smoker to 160°F and add hickory, oak, or apple wood. Arrange the sticks with space between them for airflow. Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, usually 4–6 hours.
Cool and Store
Cool the sticks immediately, then vacuum-seal or store in an airtight container in the fridge.
That’s it — you’ve made homemade beef sticks from scratch.
Beef Sticks vs Jerky
Both beef sticks and jerky start with seasoned beef, but their preparation makes them very different.
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Texture: Beef sticks are soft and juicy; jerky is dry and chewy.
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Flavor: Beef sticks hold more moisture, carrying a deeper smoke and spice flavor, while jerky is more concentrated in saltiness.
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Portion control: Beef sticks are individually portioned, helping you manage servings easily.
If you love a softer, more flavorful bite, beef sticks are the way to go.
Are Beef Sticks Healthy?
Many people ask: are beef sticks healthy? The short answer is yes — if you choose wisely.
Beef sticks provide:
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High-quality protein
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Iron, zinc, and B vitamins
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Satisfaction that helps reduce cravings
However, beef sticks can be higher in sodium because of the curing process. It’s important to choose products with simple, honest ingredients and moderate your intake if you are watching salt levels.
Look for:
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100% beef
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No artificial fillers
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Natural spices
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No added sugar
That’s exactly what you get with Wisconsin River Meats beef sticks.
Ingredients to Avoid in Beef Sticks
Not every beef stick on the shelf is created equal. Some products contain:
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High-fructose corn syrup
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Artificial flavor enhancers
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Excess sugar
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Liquid smoke flavoring
Whenever possible, choose beef sticks with a short ingredient list and traditional smoking methods.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Beef Sticks
Beef sticks go far beyond a grab-and-go snack. Here are creative ways to work them into your meals:
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Slice into a breakfast skillet with eggs and potatoes
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Chop and sprinkle over salads for extra protein
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Fold into quesadillas with cheese and peppers for game day
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Stir into macaroni and cheese for a smoky, hearty twist
How to Store Beef Sticks
Proper storage is crucial for freshness and safety.
Before opening
Keep vacuum-sealed beef sticks in a cool, dry place, ideally refrigerated.
After opening
Store them in an airtight container or resealable bag in the fridge and eat within 5–7 days.
Freezing
Divide beef sticks into smaller portions and freeze for up to six months. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to eat.
Supporting Local and Sustainable Beef
When you choose Wisconsin River Meats beef sticks, you support local family farms, sustainable practices, and traditional Midwestern craft butchery.
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We source beef from nearby family-run farms whenever possible
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Our small-batch production minimizes waste
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We use real hardwood smoke, never artificial shortcuts
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Vacuum-sealed packaging helps reduce food spoilage and landfill waste
That commitment ensures you get premium taste while supporting your local community.
Shop our beef sticks now and taste the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Sticks
What is the best way to make beef sticks?
Use high-quality ground beef, natural spices, and smoke with real hardwood. Avoid shortcuts like artificial smoke flavor or sugar-loaded spice mixes.
Are beef sticks keto-friendly?
Yes, most beef sticks are low in carbohydrates and fit perfectly into a keto or low-carb diet. Check the label to confirm there is no added sugar.
Can kids eat beef sticks?
Kids can enjoy beef sticks in moderation. Just watch portion sizes and sodium levels, especially for younger children.
How long do beef sticks last after opening?
Keep opened beef sticks in an airtight container in the fridge, and finish them within 5–7 days.
Can you freeze beef sticks?
Yes, beef sticks freeze well for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator for best results.
Are beef sticks gluten-free?
Most beef sticks made with just beef, salt, and spices are naturally gluten-free. Always check the label for wheat fillers or soy sauce if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Taste the Wisconsin River Meats Difference
Beef sticks are more than just a quick bite — they are a satisfying, nutrient-dense, protein-rich food that fits into almost any lifestyle. Whether you enjoy them on the trail, after a workout, or as an afternoon snack, they deliver flavor and convenience with every bite.
At Wisconsin River Meats, we take pride in producing beef sticks that stay true to time-tested techniques. With premium beef, authentic hardwood smoke, and honest ingredients, our beef sticks are a cut above the rest.
Ready to try the best? Shop our handcrafted beef sticks today and see what sets us apart.
