Beef Osso Bucco

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish takes an affordable cut of beef and turns it into a melt-in-your-mouth meal with minimal effort. The slow simmering brings out rich flavors, while the herbs and lemon zest add freshness and balance to the hearty sauce. It’s a warming, satisfying dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• olive oil

• onion, chopped

• garlic, chopped

• beef shank

• dried thyme

• dried oregano

• dried rosemary

• dried marjoram

• diced tomatoes (or fresh blanched and diced)

• tomato paste

• water

• lemon zest

• sea salt

• black pepper

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. Increase heat to medium-high and sear beef shank on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.

3. Return onion and garlic to the pan. Sprinkle thyme, oregano, rosemary, and marjoram over the beef.

4. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Add water to the empty tomato paste can, swirl, and pour into the pan.

5. Mix in lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, until the beef is very tender.

6. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta, spooning sauce over the top.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 2 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 50 minutes

• Total time: 2 hours

Variations

• Replace beef shank with veal or pork shanks for a traditional osso buco style.

• Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• For a richer sauce, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding tomatoes.

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.

• Top with gremolata (lemon zest, parsley, and garlic) for a bright, authentic finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish also freezes well; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Beef shank is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sear the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, four blanched, peeled, and diced fresh tomatoes can replace the canned ones.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors deepen when made a day ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Do I need to add the lemon zest?

Lemon zest brightens the sauce, but you can omit it or replace it with a splash of white wine vinegar.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, carrots, celery, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.

Does this recipe require bone-in shank?

Bone-in shank is best as it adds richness, but boneless works too.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes or stir in a teaspoon of tomato paste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply adjust the quantities and cook in a larger pot.

Conclusion

Osso Bucco-Style Beef Shank is a comforting and flavorful dish that elevates a humble cut of beef into a rich, tender meal. With its fragrant tomato-herb sauce and simple preparation, it’s a versatile recipe perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Serve it over your favorite base, and enjoy a hearty, homemade classic.

Print

Osso Bucco-Style Beef Shank transforms a humble cut of beef into a tender, flavorful dish simmered in a fragrant tomato-herb sauce. Brightened with lemon zest and slow-cooked until melt-in-your-mouth, this comforting recipe is simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining.