How Long to Bake Oxtails in Oven at 350? Your Guide to Baking Oxtails

Baking oxtails in the oven at 350 degrees is a comforting and hearty way to prepare this flavorful cut of meat. Bake oxtails in the oven at 350°F for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they are tender and fully cooked.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of baking oxtails, including how long it takes for store-bought and fresh oxtails, what to do with frozen oxtails, using an air fryer, the slow cooker option, a calorie breakdown, and the proper way to bake oxtails in the oven. Let’s embark on this culinary journey, shall we?

How Long Does It Take for Store-Bought and Fresh Oxtails?

Store-bought and fresh oxtails can be baked with the same method. Here’s the breakdown:

Ideal Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Cooking Time: Place the oxtails in an ovenproof dish, season them to your liking, and cover the dish securely with foil. Bake for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The slow cooking allows the oxtails to become tender, ensuring they’re ready when they fall off the bone.

How Long for Frozen Oxtails?

If you’ve got frozen oxtails on hand, you can still bake them to perfection.

Ideal Temperature: As with fresh oxtails, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking Time: Baking frozen oxtails takes a bit longer. Plan for about 3.5 to 4 hours, covered with foil. The extended cooking duration is necessary to thaw and cook the oxtails thoroughly.

How Long for Air Fryer Oxtails?

While the oven is the traditional method, an air fryer can be a handy alternative for oxtail lovers.

Ideal Temperature: Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking Time: In the air fryer, oxtails will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Remember to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model, so it’s wise to check for doneness.

How Long for Slow Cooker Oxtails?

The slow cooker is a hands-off approach that delivers tender oxtails over time.

Ideal Temperature: Set your slow cooker to low heat.

Cooking Time: Oxtails in a slow cooker will require about 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. This low-and-slow method is perfect for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it approach.

How Many Calories Do Oxtails Have?

Oxtails are delicious but can be calorie-dense, so let’s break it down:

On average, a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of oxtails has approximately 250-300 calories. The exact count can vary depending on factors like cooking method and seasoning.

How to Bake Oxtails in the Oven at 350: The Proper Way

To ensure your oxtails come out perfectly, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Season the oxtails with your preferred spices, herbs, and salt.
3. Place the seasoned oxtails in an ovenproof dish.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to trap in moisture.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. The oxtails are ready when they are tender and easily separate from the bone.

Tips for Baking Oxtails

Sear the oxtails: Before baking, searing the oxtails in a hot skillet with a bit of oil can enhance the flavor and color.

Marinate for flavor: You can marinate oxtails for a few hours or overnight to infuse them with additional flavors.

Add veggies: Consider adding onions, carrots, and celery to the baking dish for a flavorful, one-pan meal.

Degrease the sauce: After baking, skim excess fat off the sauce for a healthier meal.

Can I use a higher oven temperature for faster cooking?

You can, but it’s essential to monitor the oxtails closely to prevent overcooking and drying out the meat.

Should I brown the oxtails before baking?

Browning oxtails in a skillet can add depth to the flavor, but it’s not necessary if you prefer a simplified approach.

What should I serve with baked oxtails?

Common accompaniments include rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I add wine or broth for more flavor?

Absolutely. Adding red wine, beef broth, or a combination of both can contribute to a rich and flavorful sauce.

In a Nutshell

Baking oxtails at 350 degrees in the oven offers a delightful dining experience. Whether you opt for fresh, frozen, air-fried, or slow-cooked oxtails, these guidelines will help you achieve a meal that’s succulent and full of flavor. Enjoy the process of savoring these delectable, tender oxtails that are perfect for any occasion.