Why Oxtails Turn Out Tough (And How to Fix It)

Oxtails can smell incredible in the oven and still come out tougher than expected.

When that happens, it usually comes down to how they were cooked. Let's take a look at the most common reasons and how to fix it.

Jump to:

• The Most Common Reason
• Cooking Temperature Plays a Role
• Moisture Matters
• Pulling Oxtails Out of the Oven Too Early
• How to Fix It
• What to Look For
• Related Guides

The Most Common Reason

In most cases, they just weren't cooked long enough.

This cut stays firm for a while before it finally softens. If you pull it out too soon, it will still feel tough even though everything else looks right.

Cooking Temperature Plays a Role

If the oven temperature is too high, this can definitely work against you because the outside of the oxtails cooks faster, but the inside doesn't get the time it needs to break down.

This is why I prefer cooking them at a lower temperature, like 350°F for 3-½ to 4 hours. This allows the oxtails' connective tissue time to break down, leaving you with fork-tender meat.

Moisture Matters

Oxtails need moisture to cook properly.

If they aren't covered or don't have enough liquid, aka braising liquid, the exterior can dry out before the inside becomes tender. You can use water, but for a more flavorful dish, I recommend wine, beef, or chicken broth or stock, or any combination of those.

Pulling Oxtails Out of the Oven Too Early

This is where things usually go wrong.

They can look done and smell so good, but the texture can still be tough and not pleasant to eat.

Instead of relying solely on time, check how they feel before taking them out of the oven. Oxtails are expensive, so you want to make sure you get the recipe right the first time.

How to Fix It

If they're not tender yet, put them back in the oven, keep them covered, and give them more time.

As long as there's enough moisture, the texture will continue to get tender over time.

What to Look For

When they're ready:

• The meat pulls away from the bone without resistance
• A fork slides through them easily
• The texture is noticeably tender

Related Guides

For timing, see my post on How Long to Cook Oxtails in the Oven.

If you're working with other cuts of beef, see my post on Cooking Beef in the Oven the Right Way.