Osso buco is an Italian classic, traditionally made with veal shanks, but it’s equally delicious when prepared with beef shank. This Osso Bucco Beef Shank Recipe provides a hearty, flavorful, and tender meal, perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. The secret to this dish lies in the slow braising method that transforms the tough cut of meat into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy. In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the ingredients, preparation, and cooking methods for making this comforting dish, along with tips for the best results and serving suggestions.

What is Osso Buco?

Osso buco, which translates to “bone with a hole” in Italian, refers to the cross-cut beef or veal shank that’s braised to tenderness in a flavorful liquid. Traditionally, osso buco is made with veal shanks, but beef shanks are a more affordable and equally delicious alternative. As the beef shank simmers, the marrow in the bone infuses the sauce, adding richness and depth to the dish.

Ingredients for Osso Bucco Beef Shank Recipe

To make this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients that combine to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

Step-By-Step Instructions for Preparing Osso Buco Beef Shank

Follow these simple steps to create the most tender and flavorful beef shank osso buco:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the onion: Peel and chop the onion into small pieces.
• Mince the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely into small pieces.
• Prepare the beef shank: Pat the beef shanks dry with paper towels. This ensures they brown evenly during cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Beef Shank

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until the oil is hot and shimmering. 
2. Once the oil is hot, add the beef shanks to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides for 5 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice brown crust.
3. Remove the beef shanks and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the onion and garlic have softened, transfer them to the plate with the beef shanks.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Tomatoes

1. Sprinkle dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, and marjoram over the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato paste into the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Pour 6 ounces of water into the empty tomato paste can, swirl to remove any remaining tomato paste, and add it to the pot.

Step 5: Braise the Beef Shanks

1. Return the beef shanks to the pot, placing them into the tomato mixture.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and ½ teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer, maintaining a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld. Cover the pot and let the beef shanks simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, until the meat is very tender and easily falls apart with a fork.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Once the beef is fork-tender, skim any excess fat from the top of the sauce.
• To thicken the sauce, whisk in a small amount of flour (optional) until you reach the desired consistency.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Dutch Oven: The slow-braising method in a Dutch oven works perfectly to tenderize the beef, as the cast iron evenly distributes heat.
• Pressure Cooker: If you’re in a hurry, an Instant Pot or pressure cooker can cut down the cooking time significantly. In about 45 minutes, you’ll achieve the same fork-tender result.
• Slow Cooker: For a hands-off approach, you can also cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6–8 hours and let the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Osso buco is traditionally served with creamy polenta, risotto alla Milanese, or mashed potatoes, allowing the rich sauce to soak into the sides. Here are some ideas:

• Polenta: Soft, creamy polenta is the classic accompaniment to osso buco. It pairs wonderfully with the beef and sauce.
• Risotto alla Milanese: This luxurious, saffron-infused risotto complements the savory beef shank perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: If you’re looking for a more classic side, mashed potatoes are always a great choice to soak up the rich braising liquid.

Top the dish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Reviews from Our Community

This Osso Buco Beef Shank Recipe has been tried and loved by many! Here’s what some of our readers have said:

• Julie Couture: “This recipe is a game-changer! The beef was so tender, and the sauce was bursting with flavor. I served it over mashed potatoes, and it was a hit with the whole family!”
• Samantha H.: “I used the slow cooker method, and it turned out perfect. I love how simple the recipe is, yet it tastes like something you’d get at a fine restaurant.”
• Randy P.: “The best osso buco I’ve ever made. I added spinach at the end like the recipe suggested, and it was a great addition.”

Tips for the Perfect Osso Buco Beef Shank

• Brown the beef well: Don’t rush the searing step! Browning the beef shank develops deep flavors and a beautiful crust.
• Use high-quality broth: The broth plays a significant role in the final flavor of the dish, so opt for a high-quality beef or chicken broth.
• Let it simmer slowly: The longer you let the beef cook, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. Take your time to let the flavors meld.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is osso buco?

Osso buco is a traditional Italian dish made with cross-cut beef or veal shanks braised in a flavorful sauce. The marrow in the bone infuses the liquid, creating a rich, savory sauce.

Can I make osso buco in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can easily make osso buco in a slow cooker by following the same recipe but cooking on low for 6–8 hours instead of braising on the stove.

Can I use pork shanks instead of beef?

Yes, pork shanks are a great alternative to beef shanks. The recipe can be easily adapted for pork, and it will still result in a flavorful, tender dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and the beef will stay tender. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Osso Bucco Beef Shank Recipe is the perfect dish for those who love tender, flavorful meat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy dinner, this recipe will surely impress. By following the step-by-step instructions and using a slow-braising technique, you can enjoy this traditional Italian dish with a modern twist. Don’t forget to serve it with creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of a perfect meal