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Crockpot Beef Osso Buco Recipe

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This hearty Crockpot Beef Osso Buco recipe features tender beef shanks slow-cooked with a savory blend of vegetables, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, resulting in a rich and comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal. Combining ease-of-use with deep, slow-cooked flavors, this recipe uses either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot for convenience and versatility.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Meat

  • 2 pounds beef shanks

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 15 ounces diced tomatoes in juices
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for Instant Pot)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Season the beef shanks generously with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance flavor before cooking.
  2. Add vegetables and liquids to slow cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, beef broth, diced onion, peeled and diced carrot, sliced celery, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix all ingredients well.
  3. Nestle beef shanks in slow cooker: Place the seasoned beef shanks into the tomato and vegetable mixture in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well immersed for even cooking.
  4. Slow cook method: Cook the mixture on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.
  5. Instant Pot sear preparation: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Once hot, add oil to the pot. Sear the beef shanks for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  6. Sauté vegetables in Instant Pot: Using the remaining oil (add more if needed), cook the celery, onion, and carrots in the Instant Pot for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  7. Deglaze and combine ingredients in Instant Pot: Turn off sauté mode. Pour in beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze, removing any browned bits. Stir in Italian seasoning. Return beef shanks to the pot and pour diced tomatoes on top without stirring.
  8. Pressure cook in Instant Pot: Close the lid and seal the valve. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 35 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure before opening.

Notes

  • Beef shanks can be sourced bone-in for authentic Osso Buco texture and flavor.
  • Searing beef before slow cooking adds depth of flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if using salted broth or canned tomatoes with added salt.
  • Natural pressure release in the Instant Pot helps retain moisture and tenderness in the meat.
  • Serve with gremolata or polenta for a traditional Italian experience.