Oven Braised Beef Shank Recipe: Easy, Tender and Delicious

Osso Buco, Italian for “bone with a hole,” is a classic beef shank dish that originated in Milan, Italy. The beef shanks are braised in a tomato-based sauce with aromatic vegetables and herbs and the addition of red wine gives it its distinctive flavor. The beef shank osso buco is then slow cooked in the oven until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

This beef shank recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any special ingredients – just beef shanks, some red wine, vegetables and a few herbs. The beef shank osso buco comes out of the oven tender and flavorful, with the meat falling off the bone. Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and a side of steamed vegetables for a hearty and delicious meal your family will love!

Try this beef shank recipe today – it’s easy, tender, simple, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy!

Overview of beef shank and the benefits of oven braising

What’s beef shank and where does beef shank come from?

The meat cut in Beef Osso Bucco is a cross-cut of beef from the shank that’s around an inch and a half thick. When beef shanks are oven braised, the slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and infuses it with flavor from the aromatics and other ingredients used in the dish.

What is beef shank used for?

Beef shank can be used in braised dishes like beef osso buco, soups, stews and other savory applications. The beef shank is an economical yet flavorful piece of meat that yields great results when cooked properly.

How much does beef shank cost?

The cost of beef shank can vary depending on the cut, weight and where it is purchased. Generally beef shank is considered an economical cut of meat, with beef shanks ranging from $3 to $7 per pound in the United States. Many grocery stores and butcher shops also offer beef shank at a discounted price when purchased in bulk.

Simple braised beef shank recipe (Osso Bucco recipe)

Gather ingredients needed for beef shank recipe

Some other ingredients you’ll need for this beef shank recipe are:

• 4 – 6 beef shank with bone
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking notes

• Prepare time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 3 hours
• Servings: 4-6 people

How to cook beef shank quickly?

Cooking beef shank can be a labor-intensive process, but there is a way to quickly and easily prepare this flavorful cut of meat. With just 10 minutes of preparation time and 3 hours in the oven, you can have tender and delicious beef shank that your family will love. Follow these steps to learn how to cook beef shank Osso Buco quickly!

1. Pat dry the beef shanks with a paper towel.
2. Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C).
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour and salt and pepper.
4. Dredge each beef shank in the mixture, shaking off excess flour.
5. Heat the oil in a large oven-safe dutch oven over medium-high heat.
6. Add the beef shanks and brown them on all sides, about 2 minutes per side.
7. Remove the beef shanks from the dutch oven and set aside.
8. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, oregano, and thyme to the dutch oven and cook for about 5 minutes.
9. Deglaze the pan with the red wine and reduce by half.
10. Add the diced tomatoes and beef stock.
11. Return the beef shanks to the dutch oven and bring to a simmer.
12. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
13. Braise for 2 1/2 – 3 hours, or until the beef shanks are tender.

How long does beef shank take to cook?

When braised in the oven, beef shank will take between 2 1/2 to 3 hours to cook. This slow cooking method allows the beef shank to become extremely tender and flavorful.

The longer you cook the beef shank, the more tender it will become. However, be sure to check the temperature of the meat regularly to ensure it is not overcooked. The final internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C).

Why is this recipe so successful?

This beef shank Osso Buco recipe is sure to be a success due to the combination of slow and low cooking techniques, along with the use of flavorful ingredients. 

By using a long, slow braising technique, the beef shank becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it absorbs all of the delicious ingredients.

The addition of red wine helps to deglaze the pan and adds a layer of complexity to the dish. The vegetables also add color, texture, and additional flavors to the dish. All these factors create an incredibly delicious beef shank meal!

Tips on how to make sure beef shanks are cooked perfectly in the oven

1. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (162°C) when you begin cooking beef shanks in the oven. This low temperature helps ensure even and slow cooking.
2. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the beef shank regularly while cooking. The final internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C).
3. Use a good-quality dry red wine for deglazing the pan. The red wine helps to create a flavorful base for the dish.
4. Allow plenty of time for braising in the oven, 2 1/2 – 3 hours is ideal. This allows all of the flavors to mix and mingle and the beef shank to become incredibly tender.
5. Once cooked, let the beef shanks rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows any excess juices to be reabsorbed into the meat, creating an even more flavorful dish!

With these tips of quick beef shank recipe, you can prepare a tasty and perfectly-cooked beef shank in no time. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavor of beef shank! Bon appétit!

To really enhance the flavor, try adding a few extra ingredients to your beef shank dish. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth and richness, while fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will brighten the flavor of the dish.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few slices of bacon for an even heartier dish. With these simple additions, your beef shank is sure to be a hit!

What to serve with beef shank recipe?

Beef shank is a highly flavorful and tender cut of meat that pairs well with many side dishes. To complement the deep, rich flavors of beef shank, try serving it with a side dish of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts are also great options for adding color and texture to the meal.

For an even heartier meal, serve your beef shank with hearty grains such as barley, quinoa, farro, or spelt.

No matter what sides you choose, the combination of beef shank and your favorite sides is sure to be a hit!

How to store and reheat beef shank recipe?

Storing

Beef shank can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you are looking to freeze beef shank, it is important to note that you need to do so in an airtight container. The beef shank should be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat beef shank, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then place it in a covered dish with a few tablespoons of beef stock. Heat the beef shank on the stovetop until it is heated through, it might take 10 minutes on the stovetop.

Or you can simply place it in a baking dish and cover with foil before putting it in the oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake until beef shank is heated through, about 20 minutes.

Alternatively, beef shank can also be reheated in the microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes.

Ideas for leftover beef shank recipes

Are you looking for ways to use leftover braised beef shank? With leftover beef shank recipes, you can create delicious and satisfying meals with minimal effort.

1. Beef Shank Stew: Start by heating a pot over medium heat and adding in oil, onions, garlic and carrots. Once the onions are softened, add in leftover beef shank and 1-2 cups of beef broth. Simmer the stew for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

2. Beef Shank Sandwiches: Slice up your leftover beef shank and layer it on a toasted hoagie roll with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and your favorite condiments.

3. Beef Shank Tacos: Slice your leftover beef shank and place it in a warm tortilla with tomatoes, onions, cilantro and cheese. Top with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

How many calories in beef shank recipe Osso Buco?

Beef shanks are a flavorful and nutrient-dense cut of beef that can provide several health benefits. A single serving of beef shank (around 3 ounces or 85 grams) contains approximately 370 calories.

It is an excellent source of protein, providing around 25 grams per serving, making it an ideal choice for a well-rounded meal. Beef shank is also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including zinc, iron, vitamin B-12, and selenium.

The high protein content in beef shank can help with muscle growth and maintenance, while the iron helps to support healthy red blood cell production. Vitamin B-12 helps the body to form DNA and aids in energy production, while selenium is an important mineral for the immune system. In addition, beef shank contains a good amount of healthy fats which have been known to help reduce inflammation in the body.

Overall, beef shank is an excellent source of lean protein that can provide many health benefits.

Other beef shank cooking methods

Last but not least, there are many other cooking methods that you can use to prepare beef shank. You can roast, slow cook your beef shank, the possibilities are endless!

• Roasted beef shank is a classic that can be served as an entrée with your favorite sides.
• Slow cooking your beef shank can help retain its nutrients and provide a juicy, tender texture.
• In my opinion, however, grilling these items can be overly difficult.

FAQs

Can you pan sear beef shank before braising?

Yes, you can sear beef shank before braising. This will help to lock in the flavor and provide a nice color to the meat. To pan sear, heat some oil in a skillet and add the beef shank. Sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s lightly browned.

Why are beef shanks cheap?

Beef shanks are often considered a cheaper cut of meat because of their lack of sales. It is not seen in many retail stores and can be difficult to find. However, as mentioned before, if it can be found in a store then it is usually very cheap and a great low-cost ingredient for making beef stock or soups.

What if you braise beef shank too long?

If you braise beef shank too long, it will become very tender and possibly fall apart. To prevent this, check the shank after 1 to 2 hours and adjust the cooking time accordingly. The beef should be tender but still hold its shape when done.

Is it possible to substitute beef for this recipe?

Yes, I’ve had ample success when substituting chuck roast or short ribs for the primary ingredient in this recipe. So you can definitely switch out the beef shank for either of these cuts of meat.

Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as both chuck roast and short ribs tend to cook a bit faster than beef shank. If you are using a fattier cut like chuck roast, you may also need to reduce the amount of fat or oil used in this recipe.

What is the best cooking method for shank?

If you’re looking to achieve succulent beef shanks that effortlessly fall off the boneless beef shank recipe, then cooking them in a robust sauce for a period of 3 to 6 hours is the way to go. The secret to transforming tough shank meat into something soft and moist is to cook it at a low temperature for an extended period of time. The meat is further tenderized by cooking it in wine.

Can beef shank be steak?

Yes, beef shank can be considered a type of steak, but it is important to note that it is not typically prepared in the same manner as other more popular steak cuts. Shank meat comes from the lower leg of the cow and is tougher than other cuts. Therefore, it requires a longer cooking time at lower temperatures to achieve tenderness.

Is beef shank chewy?

Beef shank is typically a tougher cut of meat compared to other cuts of beef. However, when it is cooked properly, the meat can become tender and juicy. If not cooked properly, the beef shank can be chewy and difficult to eat. Low and slow cooking is the key to achieving a soft and succulent texture for beef shank.

Can you overcook beef shank?

Yes, it is possible to overcook beef shank. While it is important to cook beef shank for a sufficient amount of time to make it tender, cooking it for too long can cause it to become dry and stringy. As a general rule, beef shank should be cooked low and slow, until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F (90-96°C). This temperature range ensures that the meat is cooked through and tender, without being overcooked.

Can you cook beef shank from frozen?

While it is possible to cook beef shank from frozen, it is generally not recommended. When you cook meat from frozen, it can be more difficult to ensure that it is cooked evenly and thoroughly. This is because the meat can cook unevenly, with the outer portions being overcooked while the center remains frozen. It is best to thaw beef shank in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before cooking. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and is safe to eat.

Conclusion

Most importantly, beef shank is an incredibly versatile cut of beef that can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you’re looking for beef shank stew, beef shank tacos or beef shank sandwiches, there are plenty of ways to incorporate beef shank into your meals.

Not only does beef shank provide delicious flavor, it also provides several health benefits due to its high protein, vitamin and mineral content. With this beef shank recipe in this article, you can create satisfying meals with minimal effort.