Stovetop Oxtail Recipe (2024)

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By Rosie Published: March 9, 2020 Updated: July 11, 2023
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This simple oxtail recipe, is absolutely amazing. The oxtails come out super flavorful, and extremely tender!

My cousins obviously love oxtails. I swear every time I turn around y’all are asking for another oxtail recipe. In the past I’ve shared several oxtail recipes, including one of my blog favorites, Southern Smothered Oxtails. Well this time I’m back with my Stovetop Oxtail Recipe.

Usually I make oxtails in the slow cooker, or even instant pot oxtails. However some of you don’t own any of those gadgets, so I’m going to show you how to make some of the best oxtails made on the stovetop!

Like many of my other oxtail recipes, I start off by trimming the fat from the oxtails. That’s an important step, cousins, so don’t skip it. Otherwise your oxtails will be swimming in a lot of fat, and I’m sure that you don’t want that.

Check out my collection of oxtail recipes to try next:

Southern Smothered Oxtails
Easy Jamaican Oxtails
Oxtail Stew with Red Sauce
Smoked Oxtails
Baked Smothered Oxtails

After the fat is trimmed, I then drizzle the oxtails with olive oil and season the meat. I use a combination of seasonings for these oxtails such as red pepper flakes, seasoning salt, ground black peppers, and Herb Provence (which is becoming one of my FAVORITE seasonings). If you’re unfamiliar with Herb De Provence its a combination of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, fennel, basil, and more. I simply love the stuff.

Okay folks, so we’ve made oxtails in the slow cooker, I’m now showing you how to do them on the stovetop. Should I share a oven oxtail recipe next? Let me know below. Until then, check out my video tutorial for this recipe.

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Print out this Stovetop Oxtails recipe for FREE below (and make sure you’re subscribed to my YouTube channel)!

Stovetop Oxtails

Savory and simple, these oxtails are the perfect one-pot meal. A classic comfort food the whole family will love.

Watch Video Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Main

Cuisine Southern/ Soul Food

Keyword Stove Top Oxtails

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 4 hours hours

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

3 lbs oxtails fat trimmed
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tsp herbs de provence
2 1/2 tsp seasoning salt
2 tsp ground black pepper
1 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
1 large yellow onion chopped
6-8 cloves of garlic
3 bay leaves
3-4 sprigs of thyme
48 oz beef broth
3 tbsp browning sauce
5 large carrots peeled & chopped

Instructions

Trim the fat from the oxtails, then toss the oxtails into a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the olive oil all over the oxtails.
Sprinkle the seasoning salt, herbs de provence, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Make sure the oxtails are well coated with the oil, and seasonings.
Next grab a large deep pot or skillet, and place it over medium high heat.
Start adding the oxtails into the hot pot / skillet, and brown them.
Once the oxtails are browned, toss in the onions, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, OR until the onions are golden.
Next toss in the cloves of garlic, bay leaves, and fresh thyme.
Drizzle the browning sauce over the oxtails.
Pour in 6 cups of beef broth, stir the ingredients, and reduce the heat to low medium.
Cover the pot / skillet, and let the oxtails cook for 3 1/2 hours. Be sure to check occasionally to add more broth, and stir!
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in the chopped carrots. Give everything a nice stir, the cover.
Serve and enjoy over rice or mashed potatoes.

Video

Last Step! If you loved this recipe, leave me a review below. This helps futurerecipe makers and ensures continued high-quality recipes for years to come!

Recipe by: I Heart Recipes

MEET THE RECIPE AUTHOR

Rosie

I’m a Soul Food blogger living in the Pacific Northwest, bringing Southern cooking to gorgeous Seattle, Washington. I was born and raised in the PNW, but my family roots go all the way to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where my grandparents were born and raised. I live every day to bring the traditional values, recipes, and love of food to life for my family—whether they’re online or in real life. So, welcome to the party, family!

Related Recipes

Baked Smothered Oxtails
Smoked Oxtails Recipe
Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe

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Reader Interactions

Comments

Debra D Gray says
March 9, 2020 at 1:49 pm
Hi cousin! This recipe sounds delicious. I’m wondering, what is browning sauce?
Reply
- Rosie says
  March 10, 2020 at 8:06 am
  Hi Debra, browning sauce is a deep brown sauce made vegetables, seasonings, and color.
  Reply
  - Kisha says
    October 24, 2021 at 12:20 pm
    Where can i get the browning sauce from
    Reply
    - Rosie says
      October 31, 2021 at 5:45 pm
      Any store should carry it.
      Reply
Juanita Nauls says
March 9, 2020 at 3:40 pm
I’m certainly trying this recipe,
Reply
LQ says
March 10, 2020 at 8:44 am
Definitely going to try this! Where can I find herbs de provence?
Reply
- Rosie says
  March 10, 2020 at 1:59 pm
  Almost any store in the spice isle, xoxo!
  Reply
Tonya says
March 11, 2020 at 8:34 am
Can you braise this and then put it in a crockpot?
Reply
- Rosie says
  March 12, 2020 at 2:56 pm
  Hi Tonya! Absolutely hun!
  Reply
Maria Contreras says
March 13, 2020 at 7:44 pm

I love oxtails!! Have to try this recipe!! Will look forward to more of your recipes!
Reply
- Rain says
  November 22, 2023 at 2:02 pm
  
  Wow, talking about just like my mother use to make…sigh herb de provence and/or allspice yummy I’m 12 again!!
  Reply
Jasmine says
April 13, 2020 at 5:48 pm

Can I use “kitchen bouquet” as browning sauce?
Reply
- Rosie says
  April 14, 2020 at 1:20 pm
  Kitchen Banquet is a brand name. They do have a browning sauce.
  Reply
  - Renee says
    August 7, 2020 at 7:09 am
    Hi Rosie, not understanding. Even thought Kitchen Banquet is a Brand Name, it still says Browning and Seasoning sauce. Are you saying we can’t use this or WE CAN?? Just wondering ….by the way love this recipe hun! 🙂
    Reply
    - Rosie says
      August 21, 2020 at 11:23 am
      You can use it.
      Reply
Eboney says
See Also
Beef Kidney Recipe (How to Cook Cow Kidney or Ox Kidneys)
April 20, 2020 at 2:51 am
I can’t WAIT to try this. Oxtails are my favorite and I’ve never known how to make them. I don’t have a slow cooker so this is awesome. Thanks so much. And PLEASE DROP THAT OVEN OXTAIL RECIPE!
Reply
- Alicia says
  May 12, 2020 at 2:04 pm
  
  Ditto! Would love an oven version—thanks!
  Reply
  - Rosie says
    May 12, 2020 at 3:27 pm
    Alright loves! I will work on it! XOXO
    Reply
CZonstance says
May 17, 2020 at 2:26 am

Hey Cousin!!
The Stove Top Oxtails was amazing!!! I had everything in the house except for the browning sauce, so I made a quick trip to the store and picked it up. You were absolutely right about the browning sauce it’s a game changer!!
I also made your creamy mashed potatoes to go with it.
My Moma said she thought it was Sunday because it was a perfect Sunday Meal!! Lol!!
Thank you again Rosie!!
Your Faithful Fan
Constance
Reply
- Rosie says
  May 17, 2020 at 9:35 am
  Hi Cousin Constance!!! SO glad that you liked the recipe! Yes, the browning sauce is a winner!! XOXO
  Reply
VICTORIA BARRETT says
July 1, 2020 at 6:08 am
TOLD EVERYONE I DO NOT LIKE OX TAILS BUT MY FAMILY DO TRIED THIS RECIPE GUESS WHO LIKES OX TAILS LOL
Reply
- Rosie says
  July 1, 2020 at 12:46 pm
  LMAO!!!!!! YAYYYYYYY!!!!!
  Reply
Remora Mathis says
July 1, 2020 at 5:20 pm

Hi Rosey I am most definitely going to try this recipe but where do I find herbs de province I haven’t heard of this seasoning before I buy a lot of seasoning but never saw this one
Reply
- Rosie says
  July 2, 2020 at 8:54 pm
  Hi there! You can find it at your local grocery store in the seasoning isle. XOXO
  Reply
Brenda Alcorn says
August 4, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Yes I wud love to try them in the oven as well..this was a great Stive top recipe thanx
Reply
TRENTON says
September 2, 2020 at 9:08 am

I’ve made Oxtails twice with this recipe and my wife and I love it.
Reply
Terri Smith says
September 18, 2020 at 8:12 pm

I made this for dinner and it was so delicious!!!
Reply
Jessica says
September 25, 2020 at 2:55 am

I’ve used this recipe many times! My fiancé LOVES it and so do i. I couldnt find the herbs de province at first but was excited when i saw It in Trader Joe’s (I’m in New York). Thanks so much Rosie! Your recipes never fail! (That ultimate seafood boil was !)
Reply
- Rosie says
  September 25, 2020 at 8:32 am
  Hi Jessica! I’m, glad that you were able to find it! I love Trader Joes btw! LOL
  Reply
Dave Martin says
October 6, 2020 at 1:50 pm

I tried the smothered oxtail recipe last night and it was amazing, I plan to try this next. If I want to use slow cooker for this, should I cook on high for 8hrs as I did in the other recipe?
Reply
- Rosie says
  October 9, 2020 at 9:32 am
  I would set it to high 😉
  Reply
Brie says
November 8, 2021 at 2:19 pm

Making them tonight for hubby wish me luck lol
Reply
Domonique Dixon says
November 13, 2021 at 4:54 pm
I am going to make this recipe again now that I have the oxtail seasoning… super excited.
Reply
Sharon says
November 13, 2021 at 11:50 pm
How do you cut the recipe down.
Reply
Stacey says
July 26, 2022 at 11:36 am
I have used this recipe for oxtails many times and it’s always a hit. You definitely cannot skip the browning sauce. Today, I’m
Trying the same recipe but using beef short ribs- let’s see how it turns out!
Reply
Lisa Shelton says
September 13, 2022 at 1:38 pm
I am cooking these oxtails right now and they look so pretty cannot wait to try them
Reply
Ashanté says
December 3, 2022 at 8:51 pm
I am super excited to try this recipe. My husband has never had oxtails and I’ve never cooked them so I’m hoping this is easy enough!
Reply
Nathan Campbell says
January 2, 2023 at 9:01 am

I’m making this right now, this morning, in Greeley Colorado. I can’t wait to taste it. I followed the recipe to the T and the aroma is fantastic.!
Reply
Desiree ojeda says
February 11, 2023 at 3:16 pm

Hey just have to add this is my second time making this the first time without browning sauce and today I will be makes it again with the browning sauce can’t wait to try the difference.. this is definitely an A++ recipe
Reply
LuAnn Davis says
May 7, 2023 at 12:17 pm
Is Better than Boulion, roasted beef flavor, the same as Bowning sauce?
Reply
- Rosie says
  May 7, 2023 at 4:34 pm
  No, it’s not the same.
  Reply
Patrice says
May 29, 2023 at 10:15 am
I love you Rosie. Whenever i am cooking to impress or need some home cookin i reach for you!
Reply
- Rosie says
  May 29, 2023 at 6:22 pm
  Awwweeee. Thank you darlin! Love ya back!
  Reply
Linda says
July 2, 2023 at 10:09 am
Love
Reply
Cynthia Maclin says
July 3, 2023 at 5:35 am

Can’t wait to make these oxtails this week, looks delicious and the gravy looks soooooo appetizing.
Reply
Renee says
July 4, 2023 at 9:31 am

I made the oxtails and they were OMG delicious! I used Rosamae Oxtail Seasoning with the olive oil to season the oxtails and then followed the recipe as written. I did not have any left and had I doubled the recipe. Oh, I also added halved baby yellow potatoes with the carrots, The oxtails were tender and flavorful. Thank you for this recipe.
Reply
Joe says
September 8, 2023 at 10:19 am
Absolutely fabulous. Pleases everyone.
LOVE YOUR RECIPES.
5 STARS
Reply
Dexter Askin says
February 6, 2024 at 8:57 am

Fantastic
Reply
Janice says
February 17, 2024 at 3:38 am

Your dishes look so good it makes me want to grab a bowl and sit down with you and eat.From a non cooker I think I can make these oxtails now after failing six times.Thank you for the ingredients.Can’t wait to give this another try.
Reply

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FAQs

How long does it take for oxtails to get tender on the stove? ›

Fill with enough water to cover oxtails and place over high heat. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to medium. Cook oxtails until tender, 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Learn More ›

Do you have to boil oxtails before cooking? ›

It is not necessary to pre-cook or prepare oxtail before boiling it. However, some people prefer to blanch the oxtail briefly in boiling water to remove any impurities and excess fat. This step can help ensure a cleaner-tasting broth.

Know More ›

What are the tips for cooking oxtail? ›

You can make the most succulent meat by braising oxtail low and slow in a cooking liquid like beef stock or beer. Besides tenderizing the meat, the slow cooking process will bring out delicious flavors in the oxtail bones and marrow.

Find Out More ›

What happens if you don't brown oxtails? ›

Don't forget to brown your oxtail pieces before you begin to braise or slow cook them, as this step is essential in getting all that deep, rich flavor out of the protein. Additionally, be mindful not to take the bones out of the meat while everything is still hot, as this can cause the meat to dry out.

Read On ›

Why do you soak oxtail before cooking? ›

By soaking and blanching the oxtail before cooking any impurities are removed. To cook: Oxtail requires long, slow cooking to produce tender, succulent meat. It should be cooked for a minimum of 3 hours for the best results.

Learn More ›

How do I know when my oxtails are done? ›

Slow cookers and pressure cookers are ideal for cooking oxtail. Alternatively, you can braise oxtail in a casserole dish in a warm oven overnight for best results. The meat is cooked properly when is its soft, jelly like and will fall off the bones easily. Here are a few recipes to get you started!

Get More Info Here ›

Why do you coat oxtail with flour? ›

The idea behind coating meat with a sprinkling of flour before browning in a hot pan is pretty simple: Flour is full of starch that will caramelize quickly and give a deeper color and flavor. You most often see this technique called for in stews, where flour is used to thicken the cooking liquid.

Learn More ›

Why is my oxtail so tough? ›

As the meat braises, the collagen inside the cut cooks down and becomes gelatin; as it dissolves, the meat's fibers relax and tenderize. However, if the cooking temperature is too high, these muscle fibers will shrink and seize up, toughening.

View Details ›

How long does it take for oxtail to be cooked? ›

Bring to simmer. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 3 hours, until meat is fork tender.

Know More ›

What goes good with oxtails? ›

What Goes With Oxtails – 23 Tasty Side Dishes to Serve

Baked Cheesy Polenta Chips.
Mashed Potatoes.
Cheesy Garlic Dinner Rolls.
Butternut Squash Risotto.
Crusty French Bread.
Buttered Noodles.
Vermicelli Rice.
Cornbread.

More items...

Jul 31, 2023

Do you have to cut fat off oxtail before cooking? ›

Much like the other cooking methods, you want to trim off any excess fat, brown the outside, and deglaze any leftover bits from the browning process. This time, use wine to deglaze the pan and sauté onions, celery, carrots, and garlic.

Get More Info ›

What should I marinate my oxtails in? ›

In a large bowl, combine the paprika, black pepper, salt, oxtail seasoning, onion, garlic, scallions, 4 of the thyme sprigs, and the hot sauce. Add the oxtails and toss them with the spices until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and allow the oxtails to marinate in the refrigerator overnight.

Find Out More ›

What ethnicity eats oxtail? ›

The cut of meat, which is prepared in many cuisines around the world, including Italian and Chinese, but is a staple in Caribbean and soul food cuisines, has edged its way into the culinary conversation at large.

View Details ›

Are you supposed to soak oxtails in vinegar? ›

Do not eat dirty oxtails🤢 This is how I clean them 😎 White Vinegar (1/4 cup for first and second soak) 1/2 Cup Kosher Salt (1/4 cup for first and second soak) 5 Lemons (use 3 for first soak and 2 for second) 5 Limes (use 3 for first soak and 2 for second) Water In a large bowl filled halfway with cold water along with ...

Tell Me More ›

Does meat become more tender the longer you boil it? ›

Your meat will be juicier and more tender

The longer cooking time and the low heat complement each other perfectly. As a result, even though the meat is cooked for far longer, it doesn't dry out because the temperature is low. As a result, this is the best way to retain all the natural juices of the meat.

Read On ›

Does beef get more tender the longer it cooks? ›

Cook It Slowly

This is certainly true when it comes to notoriously tough cuts of meat like beef brisket and pork shoulder. Cooking these cuts of meat slowly, either by braising, stewing or grill roasting, is the best way to get these tasty cuts of meat meltingly tender.

Explore More ›

How long does it take for beef to get tender on the stove? ›

Place a lid on top, turn heat down to low, then simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove lid then gently simmer for another 1-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and stew has thickened, stirring occasionally. If the stew begins to reduce too quickly before the meat is tender, place the lid back on top.

Find Out More ›

Why is my oxtail not getting soft? ›

This, of course, adds to the preparation time, but it'll be worth it. Oxtail is a very fatty piece of meat with a lot of tendons. Fat and tendons aren't textures that can become super soft, super fast.

Tell Me More ›

Stovetop Oxtail Recipe (2024)

This simple oxtail recipe, is absolutely amazing. The oxtails come out super flavorful, and extremely tender!

Check out my collection of oxtail recipes to try next:

Pin me baby!

Print out this Stovetop Oxtails recipe for FREE below (and make sure you’re subscribed to my YouTube channel)!

Stovetop Oxtails

Ingredients

Instructions

Video

Rosie

Related Recipes

Subscribe by Email

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment

Comments

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FAQs

How long does it take for oxtails to get tender on the stove? ›

Do you have to cut fat off oxtail before cooking? ›