Description
Looking for a comforting dinner idea? This easy beef osso bucco is rich, hearty, and slow-cooked to perfection! A quick-prep yet flavorful dish for holidays, date nights, or weekend gatherings. This classic Italian-inspired recipe is one of the best simple ideas for fall or winter meals!
Ingredients
- 4–6 beef shanks, about 1.5 inches thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon zest, garlic, parsley (optional gremolata)
Instructions
- Pat beef shanks dry and season with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with red wine. Simmer to reduce slightly.
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir well.
- Return shanks to pot. Cover and simmer on low for 2.5–3 hours.
- Uncover and simmer 15–20 minutes to thicken sauce. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta with optional gremolata.
Notes
- Make a day ahead for even deeper flavor.
- Blend sauce for a smoother texture if preferred.
- Substitute red wine with beef broth and balsamic if needed.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Italian