Beef Cheek Meat: What It Is, How to Cook It, and Where to Buy It at the Best Price
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious cut of meat that’s rich in flavor and deeply satisfying, look no further than beef cheek meat. Often overlooked, this underappreciated gem is packed with potential. It’s not just about taste; it’s also about texture and versatility in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking up a cozy family dinner or experimenting with new recipes to impress your friends, beef cheeks can elevate any meal.
But what exactly are beef cheeks? How do you cook them perfectly? And where can you find these flavorful cuts at an unbeatable price? Dive into our guide to uncover everything you need to know about this delightful ingredient!
What is Beef Cheek Meat?
Beef cheek meat comes from the facial muscles of a cow, specifically the area around the jaw and cheeks. This cut is often neglected in favor of more popular options like ribeye or sirloin. However, its unique characteristics make it worthy of attention.
Why Choose Beef Cheek Meat?
- Rich in collagen – When cooked properly, the collagen breaks down, creating incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
- Deep, beefy flavor – More intense than other cuts, perfect for braising and stewing.
- Absorbs flavors well – Works beautifully with marinades, herbs, and spices.
- Versatile in recipes – Used in traditional dishes, gourmet meals, and even tacos!
Many chefs appreciate this cut for its versatility. From classic slow-cooked dishes to modern culinary creations, beef cheek meat can shine on any plate when treated with care and creativity.
Beef Cheek Meat Price
Beef cheek meat is often considered a hidden gem in the culinary world. Pricing can vary based on availability and quality.
Average Price Range
💰 $5 to $10 per pound (varies based on region and source).
Where to Buy Beef Cheek Meat at the Best Price
- Local butcher shops – Often carry high-quality, fresh beef cheeks.
- Supermarkets – Some grocery stores stock them in the specialty meat section.
- Online retailers – Check for deals on bulk purchases or specialty meat suppliers.
- Farmers’ markets – May offer grass-fed or organic options.
Money-Saving Tips
✅ Buy in bulk to get a discount.
✅ Look for seasonal sales and promotions.
✅ Compare prices across different stores and online platforms.
Slow-Braised Beef Cheeks Recipe
This slow-braised beef cheeks recipe delivers incredibly tender, flavorful meat with a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, pasta, or polenta.
- Slow cooker, pressure cooker, or Dutch oven (for slow cooking)
- Instant Pot or stovetop pan (for quick cooking)
- Sharp knife (for trimming excess fat)
- Tongs (for handling meat)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 lbs 1 kg beef cheek meat
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for rich flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Preparing the Beef Cheek Meat
- Trim any excess fat or sinew.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cooking Methods
- Slow Cooking (Best for Tenderness)
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sear beef cheeks on both sides.
- Transfer to a slow cooker with onion, garlic, broth, wine, and tomato paste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours until fork-tender.
- Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker (Faster Method)
- Use the sauté function to brown the beef cheeks.
- Add all ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes.
- Quick-release pressure and shred meat if desired.
- Stovetop (Quickest Method)
- Cut beef cheeks into smaller pieces for faster cooking.
- Sear in a hot pan, then simmer with broth and seasonings for 2-3 hours.
For extra tenderness, always cook low and slow if time allows.
To cook beef cheeks quickly, use a pressure cooker or cut them into smaller chunks for faster cooking.
Serving ideas: Use in tacos, pasta, or mashed potatoes.