There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a comforting Southern meal, and these Slow Cooker Oxtails are destined to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Imagine the rich, meaty aroma wafting through your home as the oxtails simmer away, gradually transforming into tender morsels that will melt in your mouth. This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart and invites family and friends around the table.

After a busy day, this slow-cooked delight is the perfect solution for satisfying an appetite without sacrificing precious time. With minimal prep, you can set the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you unwind. The secret? A luxuriously thick gravy that’s irresistibly savory, combining the ideal balance of spices and sweetness. You may even find yourself sneaking tastes before it’s fully cooked—it’s that good! Get ready to indulge in a truly soul-satisfying dish that captures the essence of South tradition.

Why are Slow Cooker Oxtails so satisfying?

Comforting Flavors: Each bite of these oxtails is a warm embrace, filled with rich, savory goodness that embodies Southern hospitality.
Effortless Cooking: Simply prepare, set, and let the slow cooker do the rest—ideal for those busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: With tender meat and a thick gravy, this dish is guaranteed to gather your family around the table, sparking joy and conversation.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to experiment! Adapt the flavors to your taste or try out various styles for a unique culinary journey.
Soul Food Classic: Celebrate the beloved traditions of Southern cuisine—this dish will leave you craving more and reminiscing about home-cooked meals.

Slow Cooker Oxtails Ingredients

For the Oxtails

Oxtails – Rich and meaty, they become fall-off-the-bone tender when slow-cooked.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor without overpowering, thanks to its larger crystal size.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat that elevates the savory profile.

For the Gravy

Beef Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the gravy, contributing richness.
Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces a savory depth and tanginess for balance.
Browning Sauce – Gives the gravy a deep color and enhances flavor complexity.
Brown Sugar – Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness without overpowering.
All-Purpose Flour – Used for creating a roux that results in a smooth, thick gravy.
Butter – Adds a creamy base, amplifying the flavors of the gravy.

For the Aromatics

Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onions are recommended for best flavor.
Paprika – Adds mild flavor and vibrant color; sweet paprika is ideal for this dish.
Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – Boost the dish’s overall onion and garlic flavors evenly.

For Cooking

Water – To adjust the gravy’s consistency and ensure everything cooks perfectly together.

Get ready to create a comforting meal that showcases Slow Cooker Oxtails as the star!

How to Make Southern Slow Cooker Oxtails

Prepare Oxtails: In a bowl, mix together the oxtails, browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Sauté Onions: Set your slow cooker to the browning setting, melt the butter, and sauté the chopped onions until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 2 minutes.
Make Gravy: Add the all-purpose flour to the sautéed onions and whisk until the mix turns a lovely golden brown, around 3-4 minutes. Next, incorporate the beef broth, brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, whisking until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Combine: Gently place the marinated oxtails into the thick gravy in the slow cooker. Make sure they are evenly covered and distributed for the best flavor infusion.
Slow Cook: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 4 hours, allowing the oxtails to become completely tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Serve with rice or cornbread to soak up that delicious gravy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Slow Cooker Oxtails Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful slow cooker oxtails and make them uniquely yours!

Vegetable Boost: Add chunks of carrots, celery, or peas to create a heartier dish, enriching the flavor and nutrition. These colorful additions will not only elevate the taste but also make your meal visually appealing.
Jamaican Twist: For a vibrant twist, incorporate Jamaican spices such as allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers for an authentic island experience. You’ll achieve a beautifully aromatic dish; your taste buds will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Barbecue Style: Mix in barbecue sauce towards the end of cooking for a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich gravy. This option is perfect for summer nostalgia and will have you dreaming of backyard gatherings.
Wine Infusion: Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a depth of flavor and a touch of acidity to balance the richness. The wine will create a complex taste that feels gourmet—just don’t forget to sip some while you cook!
Instant Pot Option: If you’re short on time, cook the oxtails in an Instant Pot for 45-50 minutes on high pressure, reducing the wait while still achieving tender, delicious results. Enjoy comfort food in a fraction of the time with this handy gadget.
Herbed Enhancement: Throw in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during the last hour of cooking for a fragrant lift that complements the oxtails beautifully. Fresh herbs can transform everyday meals into something special—a little kitchen magic!
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the gravy to kick up the spice level. Just a hint of heat can create a more dynamic flavor profile that excites your palate!
Coconut Cream Dream: Replace some beef broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist that adds richness and a subtle sweetness. This variation gives oxtails an exotic flair while still keeping the cozy comfort intact.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Oxtails?

Elevate your meal with delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of this comforting main dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture soaks up the savory gravy beautifully, making each bite extra comforting.
Collard Greens: Earthy and slightly bitter, they balance the richness of the oxtails, offering a refreshing taste contrast.
Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, it’s perfect for mopping up that luscious gravy, bringing a true Southern experience to the table.
Rice Pilaf: Light and aromatic, fluffy rice serves as a wonderful base for the tender oxtails and their flavorful sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and sweetness, harmonizing the dish with their natural caramelization.
Sweet Potato Mash: The hint of sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the savory dish, creating a symphony of flavors on your plate.
Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, these biscuits are excellent for soaking up every last bit of that rich gravy—pure comfort in every bite!
Red Wine: A glass of your favorite smooth red wine complements the dish’s richness and enhances the overall dining experience.
Lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tart, it cleanses the palate between bites, offering a delightful counterpoint to the savory oxtails.
Chocolate Pecan Pie: To finish off your meal, this indulgent dessert adds a sweet and nutty note that perfectly rounds out the experience.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Oxtails

Choose Quality Oxtails: Always opt for high-quality, well-marbled oxtails; this will enhance the gravy’s richness and tenderness.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with kosher salt and black pepper. Proper seasoning at the beginning will infuse delicious flavor throughout the slow cooker oxtails.
Control Gravy Thickness: For a thicker gravy, add a cornstarch slurry midway through cooking. This simple step can elevate the sauce’s luxurious texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the slow cooker isn’t overfilled. Proper space allows for even cooking and ensures the oxtails develop that fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
Allow for Resting Time: After cooking, let the oxtails rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the meat’s juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Slow Cooker Oxtails are excellent for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeknights. You can marinate the oxtails with the browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, prepare the gravy by sautéing the onions and creating the roux—as this can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just ensure that you cover each component tightly to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply combine the marinated oxtails with the prepared gravy in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions. This way, your dinner will be just as delicious, with the flavors melding perfectly without the rush!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Oxtails

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid storing slow cooker oxtails at room temperature. Enjoy them fresh out of the cooker to preserve flavor and tenderness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the oxtails to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the slow cooker oxtails in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Ensure the gravy covers the oxtails to maintain moisture.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy this comforting dish as if it were freshly made!

Southern Slow Cooker Oxtails Recipe FAQs

What type of oxtails should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s best to choose high-quality, well-marbled oxtails. Look for cuts with a good amount of fat, as this will enhance the flavor and richness of the gravy. Fresh, pink meat indicates that’s it’s in great condition and will yield the fall-off-the-bone tenderness you’re after.

How long can I store leftover slow cooker oxtails?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which might affect the texture.

Can I freeze my slow cooker oxtails? How do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze slow cooker oxtails for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring the gravy covers the oxtails to maintain moisture. Label your container with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat using a skillet or microwave.

What should I do if the gravy is too thin?
If you find that the gravy is thinner than you’d like after cooking, don’t worry! Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the gravy in your slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce nicely without altering the flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for those with allergies, be cautious with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar, as they can contain allergens. If you have pets, keep in mind that oxtails can be too rich for dogs and cats, so I recommend avoiding sharing. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your family’s dietary needs.

What kind of side dishes pair well with slow cooker oxtails?
The more the merrier! Slow cooker oxtails pair beautifully with sides like dirty rice, collard greens, or buttery cornbread, which all complement the dish’s rich gravy. Don’t hesitate to get creative—these delightful flavors can inspire your whole meal!