Description

Prepare to fall in love with this Smothered Oxtails recipe! It’s rich, savory, and absolutely mouthwatering—perfect for a comforting family dinner or when you want to impress guests with a classic Southern-inspired dish. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, the oxtails are coated in a flavorful gravy that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. This hearty, soul-warming recipe is one you’ll want to keep forever—it’s that good!

Ingredients

• For the Oxtails:
• 2 1/2 pounds beef oxtails
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked or ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• For the Gravy:
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• Optional Add-Ins:
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots

Preparation Method

1. Rinse and dry the oxtails, then season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare seasoned flour in a shallow dish for dredging.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Dredge oxtails in flour and sear in hot oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining flour to the oil, and stir to create a roux, cooking until golden brown.
6. Add chopped vegetables to the roux and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Gradually stir in warm water or beef stock to create gravy, seasoning to taste.
8. Return oxtails to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender, stirring occasionally.

Tips and Conclusion

For an even deeper flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or a bay leaf to the gravy while it simmers. Serve your smothered oxtails over a bed of white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside warm cornbread. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to preserve their tenderness.

This Smothered Oxtails recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s bursting with rich, savory flavors. The tender oxtails and velvety gravy make every bite unforgettable. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow! Looking for more soulful recipes? Explore our collection for even more inspiration. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe—you’ll be making it again and again!