Slow Cooker Turkey Osso Buco with Aromatic Vegetables Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the turkey shanks in a hot pan with a little oil before placing them in the slow cooker. While not strictly necessary, this step adds a layer of caramelized flavor to the meat that enhances the overall depth of the sauce.

If you choose to sear, ensure the pan is hot and the turkey is patted dry to achieve the best color before transferring to the slow cooker.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Simply mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce.

This will give the tomato and vegetable mixture a more velvety, restaurant-style consistency that coats the turkey beautifully when serving.

Variations

• Spicy Tomato Turkey: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture before cooking to introduce a subtle, warming heat to the dish.
• Earthy Mushroom Turkey: Incorporate a cup of sliced cremini or button mushrooms along with the carrots and onions to add an earthy, umami-rich dimension to the tomato braising sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the food has cooled to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of water if needed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food cools to room temperature within 2 hours before moving it to the fridge. To reheat, place the turkey and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much, and heat until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Prepare the entire recipe as directed, then allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or for preparing dinner in advance for guests, allowing you to enjoy the meal without last-minute stress.

Serving ideas

Serve this turkey osso buco over a bed of creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the rich, flavorful tomato sauce. These sides provide a perfect, neutral base that complements the savory, herbaceous notes of the braised turkey. A simple side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad adds a fresh contrast to the hearty main dish.

Garnish each serving with a light sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, or serve with a side of crusty bread to ensure none of the delicious sauce goes to waste.

The combination of the tender meat, soft vegetables, and rich tomato sauce makes for a satisfying and complete meal that is both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion that calls for a warm, slow-cooked dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Turkey Osso Buco with Aromatic Vegetables

Prep 15 minCook 6 hRest 5 minTotal 6 h 20 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces turkey shanks
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp herbes de Provence
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place the raw turkey shanks into the base of the slow cooker insert. Scatter the diced carrots and diced yellow onion evenly over the turkey pieces. Sprinkle the herbes de Provence over the top of the vegetables and meat. Finally, pour the crushed tomatoes over the entire mixture to cover the ingredients.
2. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the device to the low setting and cook for approximately 6 hours. Alternatively, if time is limited, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is for the meat to become extremely tender and easily pull away from the bone.
3. Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), turn off the slow cooker. Carefully remove the turkey shanks to a serving plate and allow them to rest for at least 5 minutes. Spoon the thickened tomato and vegetable sauce generously over the top of the turkey before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.