A Rare Gem of Flavor and Tenderness Beef cheeks are a culinary treasure, prized by chefs for their deep, beefy flavor and incredible richness. Our Wagyu Beef Cheeks (BMS 7+) take this experience to a new level. Sourced from a small, family-run Wagyu program in Colorado, these cuts benefit from selective Japanese Kuroge Tajima genetics and a slow, careful feeding program. The result is exceptional marbling that transforms tough connective tissue into a buttery, gelatin-rich texture when cooked low and slow. While they may look similar to a brisket or short rib, Wagyu beef cheeks offer a more refined eating experience. They are best suited for braising, smoking, or sous-vide cooking, where time and patience allow the meat to become fork-tender and decadent. Whether you’re preparing them for tacos, pasta, or a classic stew, these cheeks deliver a restaurant-quality meal at home. Why Our Colorado Wagyu is Best in Class We partner with a mid-sized, family-owned Wagyu program in Colorado that processes a small number of steers each week (140–175). This scale allows for meticulous care and superior genetics, including bulls sourced directly from Japan. Compared to major commercial programs, our Wagyu is fed for longer at a slower pace, resulting in deeper flavor and more consistent marbling. When you choose these beef cheeks, you’re choosing a cut that has been raised with the same attention to detail as our premium steaks. How to Cook Wagyu Beef Cheeks Beef cheeks are a "low and slow" cut. High heat will make them tough, but gentle, prolonged cooking breaks down the collagen into rich gelatin, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Braised Wagyu Beef Cheeks Preparation: Season the cheeks generously with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot pan with oil until deeply browned on all sides to build a flavorful base. Braising: Transfer to a Dutch oven or slow cooker. Add aromatics like onions, carrots, celery, thyme, and a bay leaf. Cover halfway with beef broth and a splash of red wine. Cooking: Cover and cook at 325°F (163°C) or on low in a slow cooker for 6–8 hours. The meat is ready when it yields easily to a fork. Finishing: Thicken the braising liquid with a bit of flour or cornstarch for a rich sauce. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or with crusty bread. Frequently Asked Questions What makes Wagyu beef cheeks different from regular beef cheeks? Wagyu beef cheeks have significantly higher marbling (BMS 7+) due to their genetics and feeding program. This results in a richer flavor and a more buttery, tender texture once the connective tissue breaks down during cooking. How do beef cheeks compare to short ribs or oxtail? Many customers find beef cheeks to be even more tender and flavorful than short ribs or oxtail. They have a similar rich, gelatinous quality but often cook more evenly and offer a more refined beef flavor. What is the best way to cook beef cheeks? Low and slow methods are essential. Braising, smoking, sous-vide, or slow-roasting are the best ways to ensure the tough connective tissues break down into a tender, succulent meal. Where are these beef cheeks sourced from? Our Wagyu beef cheeks are sourced from a family-owned program in Colorado that uses selective Japanese Kuroge Tajima genetics. The cattle are raised in pristine pastures and fed a specialized diet for optimal marbling. Do I need to trim the beef cheeks before cooking? Our beef cheeks are expertly trimmed to minimize prep work. You may notice a thin silver skin or some external fat, which can be left on to add flavor during braising or trimmed if preferred. How should I store and thaw my beef cheeks? Keep the product frozen until ready to use. Thaw in the refrigerator for 24–48 hours before cooking. Once thawed, cook within 1–2 days for best quality. What dishes are best for beef cheeks? They are incredibly versatile. Try them in tacos, over pasta, in a rich stew, on a sandwich, or served alongside creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. Is this product shipped frozen? Yes, this item is shipped frozen with dry ice to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. Please refer to our shipping policy for more details on delivery times and handling. This item is delivered frozen.