Crock Pot Beef Cheek

This Crock Pot Beef Cheek is a rich and tender recipe, which uses beef cheeks and smoked paprika. It’s a straightforward recipe, ready in about 8 hours and 40 minutes.

Crock Pot Beef Cheek Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1 teaspoon of any other salt)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 4 pounds beef cheeks (6–8 cheeks)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water)

How To Make Crock Pot Beef Cheek

1. Mix the spices: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin.
2. Layer and season the meat: Place beef cheeks in a 6-quart slow cooker in layers, sprinkling each layer with the spice mix. No need to add liquid.
3. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours until the meat is extremely tender.
4. Thicken the juices: Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir it gently into the cooking juices. Cover and cook on HIGH for 30 more minutes.
5. Serve: Divide the beef cheeks onto plates, spoon juices over the top, and serve warm.

Recipe Tips

• Do I need to add liquid? No, beef cheeks release enough liquid during cooking. You can add ½ cup broth if preferred.
• How many cheeks per person? Most beef cheeks shrink to about 6 ounces each when cooked—plan on one per person.
• Can I shred the meat? Yes, the meat is very tender and can be shredded for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
• How to make thicker sauce: Double the cornstarch and water to make a thicker gravy.
• What spices work best? Smoked paprika and cumin give the cheeks a rich, smoky flavor—don’t skip them!

What To Serve With Beef Cheek

These rich and tender beef cheeks pair well with hearty sides:

• Mashed potatoes
• Creamy polenta
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic rice
• Crusty bread

How To Store Beef Cheek

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Beef Cheek Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 465
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Sodium: 544mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use another cut instead of beef cheeks?
Short ribs or chuck roast are good substitutes if beef cheeks aren’t available.

Why is my beef cheek not tender?
It likely didn’t cook long enough. Be sure to cook for the full 8 hours on LOW.

Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Yes, root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can cook alongside the beef.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Microwave on 50% power covered, or gently reheat on the stovetop with some of the juices.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot Beef Caldereta
• Crock Pot Beef Brisket With Vegetables
• Crock Pot Beef Brisket Stew