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Smoked Beef Cheek Tacos

Smoked Beef Cheek Tacos

By Matt Pittman

Forget boring tacos and go BOLD. These beef cheek tacos are smoked, then slow braised for an ultra-tender finish. Load up your tortillas and pile on the toppings for the ultimate taco Tuesday feast.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

6 Hours

Pellets

Oak

Ingredients

Number of people serving

8

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Units of measurement:
main
3 Pound beef cheeks, trimmed
As Needed Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub
18 Ounce beef stock or broth
1 Head garlic
1 white onion, quartered
20 Small corn tortillas
1 Bunch cilantro
1 Small white onion, chopped
Cotija cheese, for serving (optional)
fresh lime slices, for serving (optional)

Step

  • 1

    Trim the fat off the beef cheeks. This ensures a more pleasant bite in the tacos.

  • 2

    Season the trimmed cheeks moderately with Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub. Allow to adhere for at least 15 minutes.

  • 3

    When ready to cook, set Traeger temperature to 275°F and preheat, lid closed for 15 minutes.

    275 ˚F / 135 ˚C

    Super Smoke

  • 4

    Place the cheeks directly on the grill grate and smoke for 2 to 2-1/2 hours. No spritzing required, you just want a good, heavy smoke. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F.

    275 ˚F / 135 ˚C

    160 ˚F / 71 ˚C

    Super Smoke

  • 5

    After the cheeks have achieved a nice color, place them in a half size steam pan. Mix the braising liquid, garlic and onions and pour over the cheeks. You want approximately 1 inch of liquid in the pan. Do not completely submerge the cheeks. Return the pan to the grill for 4 to 5 hours. Flip one time during the cook. They should be fork tender.

    275 ˚F / 135 ˚C

    04:00

    Super Smoke

  • 6

    Pro Tip: If you want to smoke these overnight, set Traeger to 200°F, cover with foil and check back the next morning.

  • 7

    Serve on corn tortillas and top with cilantro and onions. Add Cotija cheese and fresh limes if desired. Enjoy!

My Notes


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