NESCO dehydrators, particularly the FD-37 and FD-61 models, are excellent choices for making jerky at home. These units deliver consistent results for beef, venison jerky, and turkey jerky without requiring professional equipment or extensive experience.
The NESCO FD-61 Snackmaster Encore delivers 500 watts of drying power with a top-mounted fan design that keeps marinades and liquids away from the heating element
The FD-37 Clear Cover model offers a budget-friendly entry point around $50-60, making it accessible for first time jerky makers
Both models dry jerky in hours rather than days, with typical batch times ranging from 4-8 hours depending on meat thickness
Top-mounted fan placement is a key advantage—it prevents dripping into the motor area, which is a common issue with bottom-fan designs
The rest of this guide covers model comparisons, essential features, step-by-step instructions, and storage tips for perfect homemade jerky
Making jerky at home has grown significantly in popularity since 2020, driven by cost savings, control over ingredients, and the simple satisfaction of creating your own snacks. Whether you want to avoid preservatives, save money compared to store-bought options, or process venison from hunting season, a reliable food dehydrator makes the process straightforward.
NESCO has been a long-time player in the home dehydrator space, with specific jerky-friendly units like the FD-37 and FD-61 Snackmaster Encore designed with meat drying in mind. These machines work by circulating warm air across thin strips of marinated meat, removing moisture slowly and safely until you have shelf-stable jerky.
A dehydrator creates the perfect environment for jerky: low, consistent heat (typically around 155-185°F) combined with steady airflow
The drying process removes enough moisture to inhibit bacterial growth while preserving flavor and creating that chewy texture people love
While this article focuses primarily on making jerky, NESCO dehydrators also handle fruits, vegetables, and herbs with ease
The expandable tray design lets you scale up production as your skills improve or when processing large batches of game meat
Key NESCO Dehydrator Models for Jerky
When shopping for a nesco dehydrator specifically for jerky production, or comparing the best food dehydrators for jerky overall, two models consistently stand out in 2024. Here’s how they compare for home jerky makers:
FD-61 Snackmaster Encore Dehydrator and Jerky Maker:
Delivers 500 watts of drying power for faster, more even drying across all trays
Ships with 4 trays but is expandable—you can add extra trays separately to increase batch capacity
Top-mounted fan design prevents marinades from dripping into the heating chamber during the drying process
Holds a strong 4.6 out of 5-star rating with hundreds of verified reviews on major retail sites
Ideal for venison jerky, lean beef jerky, and various snack foods including dried fruits
The unit is quiet enough to run overnight without disturbing your household
FD-37 Clear Cover Food & Jerky Dehydrator:
Priced around $54.99 as of early 2024, making it one of the most affordable entry points for jerky making
Includes four 13 1/2″ diameter trays with expansion capability up to 7 trays
Uses a fixed temperature setting designed specifically for jerky, eliminating guesswork for beginners
The clear cover lets you visually check progress without opening the unit and disrupting airflow
Quiet fan operation and simple controls make it great for those new to the hobby
Compatible Accessories:
Small fruit roll sheets (like the LSS-2) fit the FD-37 and other numbered NESCO models
Additional trays can be bought separately to increase capacity for larger batches
Jerky guns and seasoning kits are available for ground meat jerky applications, and many users of the NESCO FD-61 Snackmaster Encore food dehydrator rely on these add-ons for consistent results
NESCO FD-61 Snackmaster Encore Dehydrator & Jerky Maker
The FD-61 represents NESCO’s flagship jerky-oriented dehydrator for home use. It strikes a balance between affordability and performance that makes it a popular choice among both casual snackers and serious jerky enthusiasts who want reliable results without commercial equipment.
Power & Performance:
The 500-watt heating element combined with efficient airflow means your jerky dries in hours, not the full day or more that older or low-power units sometimes require
Even heat distribution across trays reduces the need for constant monitoring and rotation
The machine maintains consistent temperature throughout the drying cycle, which is critical for food safety
Design Features:
Top-mounted fan placement is the standout design choice—it pulls air down through the trays rather than pushing from below
This configuration keeps meat juices and marinade drips away from the motor and heating element
The gray speckled exterior is practical and hides minor stains that come with regular use
Starting with 4 trays, you can add more as needed without replacing the entire unit
Jerky Use Cases:
Process venison from fall hunting season into shelf-stable snacks that last for months
Experiment with turkey jerky for a lower-fat alternative
The consistent temperature and airflow work well for both thin (1/8″) and moderately thick (1/4″) cuts
User Experience:
Hundreds of verified ratings indicate this model is bought frequently each month by jerky makers
Customer review summaries consistently praise reliability for jerky and snacks
Many users report running the machine night after night during hunting season without issues
Easy clean up is frequently mentioned—trays wash easily with warm soapy water
NESCO FD-37 Clear Cover Food & Jerky Dehydrator
The FD-37 positions itself as the budget-friendly jerky dehydrator for beginners and casual users who don’t need all the bells and whistles. If you’re looking to try making jerky for the first time without a major investment, this model delivers solid performance at an accessible price point.
Core Specs:
Priced around $54.99 when in stock, making it easy to justify even if you’re unsure how often you’ll use it, as confirmed in many Nesco FD-37 dehydrator reviews
Four 13 1/2″ trays included in the base set give you enough space for a reasonable first batch
Expandable to up to 7 trays, so you can scale up as your jerky-making ambitions grow
The round design is space-efficient for kitchen storage
Fixed Temperature Operation:
Uses a fixed, jerky-appropriate temperature that eliminates the guesswork for newcomers
You simply load the trays, turn it on, and let it run—no fiddling with settings
The trade-off is less fine control compared to digital models, but most beginners find this simplicity a benefit rather than a limitation, especially compared with adjustable units like the NESCO FD-41B Snackmaster Jr
Quiet but powerful fan circulates air evenly without creating disruptive noise
Clear Cover Advantage:
The transparent top lets you visually check jerky dryness without opening the unit
Watch for color change (darkening) and texture changes as indicators of progress
This visual feedback helps you learn your preferred doneness over time
You can check on progress at any time without disrupting the drying environment
Included Jerky Extras:
Many FD-37 kits include sample seasoning and cure packs, perfect for your first batch
These recipe instruction guides and seasoning packets remove the intimidation factor for beginners
Try the included seasonings first before moving on to custom marinades and recipes
The cure packets are formulated for one pound of meat, making portioning simple
Essential Features to Look For in a NESCO Jerky Dehydrator
Even among NESCO models, certain features matter more when jerky is your primary goal. Understanding these differences helps you pick the right unit for your specific needs and batch sizes.
Power (Watts):
Models in the 400-500 watt range (like the FD-61) deliver faster, more even jerky drying
Lower-power units still work but may require more time and thinner cuts of meat to achieve good results
Higher wattage also helps maintain consistent temperature when loading cold, freshly marinated meat onto the trays
Fan Placement & Airflow:
Top-mounted fans (as found in the FD-61) are preferred for jerky because they prevent dripping into the motor area
Bottom-mounted designs can work but require more careful marinade management
Good airflow is essential—it removes moisture-laden air and replaces it with dry air continuously
Temperature Control:
Fixed-temperature units (like the FD-37) are simple and foolproof for beginners
Adjustable or digital temperature control offers flexibility for different meats and preferences
USDA guidelines recommend jerky reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F for poultry; understanding what temperature to dehydrate jerky is critical for safety
Fish jerky requires lower temperatures around 145-155°F
Tray Capacity & Expandability:
Most NESCO dehydrators start with 4 trays, with options to expand to 7 or more, and higher-end stackable models such as the NESCO FD-75A Snackmaster Pro can expand even further
Frequent jerky makers or hunters processing large batches should prioritize expandability
More trays mean larger batches, but also longer drying times—plan accordingly
Accessories & Compatibility:
Fruit roll sheets let you make fruit leather and other snacks alongside jerky
Extra trays are often sold separately and are a worthwhile investment for serious users
Jerky guns enable ground meat jerky production with consistent strip shapes
Check model compatibility before purchasing accessories—the item number matters
How to Make Jerky in a NESCO Dehydrator (Step-by-Step)
This walkthrough applies broadly to NESCO units like the FD-61 and FD-37, with small variations based on your specific model. Follow these steps for your first batch and adjust based on your results.
Step 1 – Choose and Prep Meat:
Select lean cuts of beef (top round, bottom round, eye of round) or venison with minimal marbling—these are among the best meats to use for beef jerky
Trim all visible fat before slicing—fat doesn’t dry properly and accelerates spoilage
Partially freeze the meat for 1-2 hours until firm but not frozen solid
Cut strips to about 1/8–1/4 inch thickness for even drying
Cut against the grain for jerky that’s easier to chew, or with the grain for a chewier texture that holds together better
Alternatively, use NESCO-branded jerky seasoning and cure packets for consistent results
Place meat strips in a container or zip-lock bag with the marinade
Refrigerate for at least 4-12 hours—longer marinating (up to 18-24 hours) produces more flavorful jerky
Shake the container 2-3 times during marinating to ensure even coating
Never marinate at room temperature—always use the refrigerator for food safety
Step 3 – Load the NESCO Trays:
Remove strips from marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture
Lay strips in a single layer on each tray with small gaps between pieces for air circulation
Avoid overlapping—every piece needs airflow on all sides
For FD-37 clear cover users, arrange pieces so you can easily monitor progress through the lid
Don’t overload—crowded trays lead to uneven drying and longer batch times
Step 4 – Set Up and Dry:
For adjustable models like the FD-61, set temperature to 160°F for beef or venison
For fixed-temperature models like the FD-37, simply turn the unit on
Place trays in the dehydrator and set a timer for 4 hours as your first check point
Expect total drying time of 4-8 hours depending on thickness, humidity, and tray load
Tray rotation needed approximately every 2 hours helps ensure even drying—move bottom trays to top and top trays to bottom
Pat strips with clean paper towels periodically to remove accumulated oil
Step 5 – Check Doneness:
The bend test is your best indicator: properly dried jerky should bend and crack but not snap clean in half
Look for white fibers visible when you tear or bend a piece
Let a test piece cool for 5 minutes before checking—warm jerky feels softer than it actually is
If strips are still moist or flexible without cracking, continue drying and check every hour
When in doubt, dry longer—under-dried jerky won’t store safely
Step 6 – Cool and Store:
Remove finished jerky from the dehydrator and let it cool completely (several hours or overnight)
Cooling prevents condensation inside storage containers, which could lead to mold
Store in airtight containers, zip-lock bags, or vacuum-sealed bags
Properly dried jerky keeps at room temperature for 1-2 weeks
Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage—frozen jerky can last months
Some oil collecting in the bag after a day or two is normal
Safety, Certifications, and Maintenance
Food safety and proper maintenance are critical when dehydrating meat at home. Unlike drying fruits or herbs, jerky production involves animal protein that requires careful handling to avoid foodborne illness.
Food Safety Basics:
Always start with fresh, properly refrigerated meat from a reliable source
Keep raw meat refrigerated during marinating—never leave it at room temperature
USDA guidance states that jerky should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef and be dried thoroughly to inhibit microbial growth
This internal temperature is typically reached within 2-3 hours, but the jerky isn’t shelf-stable until moisture is sufficiently removed
When properly made, jerky is safe to eat and store without refrigeration for reasonable periods
Warnings & Certifications:
Some NESCO products carry California Proposition 65 warnings regarding cancer and reproductive harm
More details are available at the official p65warnings.ca.gov website
This is a labeling requirement specific to California law and appears on many consumer products
Always read and follow all manufacturer warnings included with your specific model
The unit should be used in well-ventilated areas as recommended in product documentation
Unplug the unit and let it cool completely before cleaning
Remove trays and wash them in warm, soapy water
Many NESCO trays are top-rack dishwasher safe—check your manual to confirm
Wipe down the base and fan housing with a damp cloth—never submerge the base unit
Easy clean up is one of the advantages of the simple tray design
Remove any meat residue promptly to prevent odors and buildup
Routine Maintenance:
Inspect power cords for damage, fraying, or wear before each use
Check trays for cracks or warping that could affect food contact or stacking
Clear any debris from fan vents to maintain proper airflow
Store the dehydrator in a clean, dry space with trays stacked to prevent warping
Replace any damaged components before using the machine again
Customer Feedback, Reviews, and Where to Buy
Real-world user reviews help confirm how well NESCO dehydrators perform for jerky beyond manufacturer claims. Looking at verified purchaser feedback gives you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Customer Reviews Overview:
The NESCO FD-61 Snackmaster Encore commonly holds ratings in the mid-to-high 4-star range (approximately 4.6 out of 5 with 400+ ratings on major retail sites), similar to many of the top meat dehydrators reviewed for jerky
Review systems on large marketplaces weight recency and verified purchases, not just simple averages
Models like the FD-37 also receive strong ratings, particularly from beginners who appreciate the simplicity
Look for reviews specifically mentioning jerky rather than general dehydration use
Common Praise:
Users frequently highlight fast, even drying for jerky compared to older or cheaper models
Quiet operation allows running the unit overnight or during the day without disruption
Durable construction means the machine holds up to regular use over years
Many reviewers mention using the unit for both jerky and snacks like dried fruits and vegetable chips
The expandable design earns praise from those who started small and scaled up their batches
Friends and family often receive homemade jerky as gifts, prompting additional unit purchases
Typical Criticisms:
Some users wish the fixed-temperature models offered more control for different applications
The base tray count (typically 4) feels limiting for those processing large batches
A few reviews mention wanting clearer recipe instruction materials included
Occasional notes about tray rotation needed for perfectly even results, though this is normal for stackable dehydrators
Where to Buy:
NESCO dehydrators are widely available through major online marketplaces like Amazon, including specialized jerky-focused units such as the Nesco Jerky Xpress
Kitchen specialty stores often carry popular models
NESCO’s own website offers direct purchasing options
Compare the price across multiple sellers before purchasing—prices can vary by $10-20 for the same model
Watch for bundle deals that include extra trays, jerky seasoning packets, or accessories
Check that the item ships from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit or damaged goods
Add to cart and monitor for price drops if you’re not in a rush
Conclusion: Choosing the Right NESCO Dehydrator for Your Jerky Routine
NESCO models like the FD-37 and FD-61 are proven options for reliable homemade jerky in 2024. Whether you’re a hunter processing game, a snack enthusiast seeking better ingredients, or someone looking to save money on store-bought jerky, these dehydrators deliver consistent results without requiring commercial equipment or extensive experience.
FD-61 Snackmaster Encore: Choose this model if you want more drying power, adjustable settings, and plan to make jerky regularly or in larger quantities
FD-37 Clear Cover: Perfect for budget-conscious beginners who want a simple, foolproof machine to learn on
Consider your batch size: If you process venison from hunting season or make jerky for a large variety of friends and family, prioritize expandable tray capacity
Budget matters: The FD-37 offers excellent value for money if you’re testing the hobby before committing to a higher-end unit
Think beyond jerky: Both models handle dried fruits, herbs, and other snacks, making them versatile kitchen tools
Start with a small batch of beef or venison jerky to learn your preferred texture and seasoning. Use the included cure and seasoning packets for your first attempt, then experiment with custom marinades as you gain confidence. Once you’ve dialed in your technique, you’ll find that a NESCO dehydrator makes homemade jerky not just possible, but genuinely simple and satisfying.
DannyContent Writer
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