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Slow Cooker Osso Buco is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. This classic Italian dish features tender, slow-braised veal shanks simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with wine, garlic, and fresh herbs. It's a show-stopping meal that's surprisingly easy to make, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Osso Buco

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  • Author: Jake
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Slow Cooker Osso Buco is a luxurious, fall-off-the-bone dish featuring tender veal shanks braised in a rich, flavorful tomato and white wine sauce. This Italian classic, made easy in a slow cooker, is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Osso Buco:

  • 4 veal shanks (about 1 1/2 inches thick)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Gremolata (Optional):

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Veal Shanks:
    1. Pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Sear the Shanks:
    1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the veal shanks on all sides until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    1. In the same skillet, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Deglaze the Pan:
    1. Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
    1. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  6. Cook:
    1. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the veal shanks are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
  7. Prepare the Gremolata (Optional):
    1. Mix parsley, lemon zest, and garlic in a small bowl.
  8. Serve:
    1. Serve the osso buco hot, topped with gremolata if desired, over a bed of risotto, polenta, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Substitute veal shanks with beef shanks if needed.
  • Use red wine instead of white for a deeper flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 veal shank with sauce
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 48g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg