Ina Garten Osso Buco Recipe

Braised dishes are some of my favorites to prepare, and Ina Garten’s osso buco delivers on every level.

The combination of slow-cooked veal shanks, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables creates this unique and oh-so-good dish!

I always make sure to dredge the shanks lightly in flour before browning them—it gives the sauce a velvety texture.

Using homemade or low-sodium stock is another step worth taking here. It keeps the sauce balanced without being too salty.

This dish pairs so well with creamy mashed potatoes or a saffron risotto to really soak up the flavorful sauce!

How to Make Ina Garten Osso Buco

Ingredients

• 3 Veal Shanks (1 lb. each)
• 1/2 cup Pancetta (diced)
• 1 cup White Wine
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 can Tomatoes (14 oz., diced with juice)
• 1 sprig Rosemary
• 1 sprig Thyme
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 2 Cloves
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 325°F.

In a large oven-proof pot, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy.

Remove the pancetta and leave about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.

Step 2:

Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper.

Brown them in the pancetta fat, turning occasionally, until they have a nice crust.

Remove and set them aside.

Step 3:

In the same pot, add olive oil if needed, and sauté the rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and cloves.

Stir for a minute to release their fragrant aroma.

Step 4:

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot.

Let it simmer for a few minutes until it reduces by half.

Step 5:

Add the tomatoes with their juice and beef broth to the pot.

Return the veal shanks to the pot, nestling them into the sauce.

Cover and place in the oven.

Braise for 1 ½ to 2 hours until the meat is tender.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Wine

For a balanced flavor, select a dry white wine that doesn’t overpower the dish.

I recommend using a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Preparing Ahead

You can prepare all the ingredients a day ahead to save time on cooking day.

Just store them properly until you are ready to go.

Checking for Tenderness

You’ll want the meat to be fork-tender.

Check it towards the end of the cooking time and adjust if necessary.

Adding Fresh Herbs

Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones, as they provide a more vibrant flavor to the dish.

This makes a noticeable difference!

Pairing with the Right Sides

Serve with a side of risotto or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

This combination is simply divine!

What to Serve with Ina Garten Osso Buco

In addition to my faves below, be sure to check our our full list of the most popular Osso Buco sides!

Classic Risotto alla Milanese

You can’t go wrong with Risotto alla Milanese!

The creamy texture of this saffron-infused risotto brings out the richness of the osso buco.

The gentle hint of saffron adds a unique aromatic element that pairs perfectly with the veal.

Creamy Polenta

For a comforting side, you might consider serving creamy polenta.

It’s a versatile choice that can be made either smooth or slightly coarse, depending on your preference.

This simple dish balances the robust flavors of the osso buco wonderfully.

Arugula and Grapefruit Salad

For something light and refreshing, try an arugula and grapefruit salad.

The peppery arugula combined with juicy grapefruit creates a refreshing contrast to the rich osso buco.

A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt complete this salad beautifully.

Braised Cabbage with Apples

Braised cabbage with apples can add a sweet and savory twist.

The tender cabbage with slices of sweet apple creates an interesting flavor profile.

It’s not a conventional side, but it complements the depth of osso buco nicely.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Buttered egg noodles offer a simple yet satisfying pairing for your meal.

Their subtle taste doesn’t overpower the main dish, and they soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce.

These noodles are a convenient and tasty side choice!

Variations and Substitutions

Using Different Broth

Have you thought about swapping chicken broth for beef broth in your osso buco recipe?

The switch adds a richer, beefy flavor that pairs beautifully with the veal!

Exploring Different Herbs

Adding more herbs can completely change the flavor profile.

Consider using oregano or basil instead of rosemary and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.

It’s a fun way to experiment with new flavors!

Trying Different Meats

If you can’t find veal shanks, try substituting with beef shanks.

The cooking method remains the same, but beef might offer a heartier taste.

You’ll be amazed at how it still cooks up tender and delicious.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Feel free to add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for additional texture and depth.

They absorb the dish’s flavors beautifully and make it even more nutritious.

Try this when you’re in the mood for something a little different!

Simmering Down the Wine

In case you run out of wine, swap it with additional broth and a dash of vinegar for acidity.

This tweak maintains the dish’s depth without sacrificing flavor.

Adding the right amount brings out a wonderful taste!

How to Store Leftover Osso Buco

You’ve just finished a delicious meal, and now it’s time to store those leftovers properly.

Start by letting the Osso Buco cool to room temperature.

Once it’s no longer hot, it’s ready to be stored.

Refrigeration

Use an airtight container to place your leftovers in the refrigerator.

Make sure it’s consumed within 3 to 4 days for the best quality.

Avoid keeping it in the fridge door as the temperature fluctuates more there.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a fantastic option!

Divide the Osso Buco into portion-sized amounts before storing in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Label them with the date so you always know how long they’ve been stored.

Thawing

Thaw your frozen Osso Buco in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to eat it again.

Try not to thaw it at room temperature to prevent any risk of spoilage.

Proper storage ensures that when you’re ready for another meal, it tastes just as good!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Pancetta

Don’t skip the pancetta when making osso buco.

Its rich flavor adds depth to the dish, so be sure to brown it well for that perfect crispy texture!

Using the Wrong Wine

White wine is key in this recipe to balance all the flavors.

Avoid using red wine unless you want to create a bolder, more robust taste.

Not Monitoring Oven Temperature

It’s crucial to keep the oven at 325°F or 163°C.

Higher temperatures can dry out the veal shanks, leaving them less tender.