Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall-Off-the-Bone Tenderness: The lamb shanks are slow-braised to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The savory broth, infused with rosemary, thyme, and paprika, makes an irresistible sauce.
• Perfect Pairing: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth and buttery contrast to the robust flavors of the lamb.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is straightforward to make, with most of the time spent in the oven.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your choice of vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the lamb shank:

• 2 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the mashed potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof pot over medium heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the broth, diced tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a simmer, then return the lamb shanks to the pot. Cover and transfer to the oven.
5. Braise for 2.5–3 hours, turning occasionally, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
6. While the lamb cooks, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
7. To serve, place the mashed potatoes on a plate and top with the lamb shank. Spoon the rich sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3 hours
• Calories: 480 per serving

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add parsnips, mushrooms, or pearl onions to the pot for extra flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: Include a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a subtle heat.
• Herb Swap: Try oregano or basil instead of rosemary and thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Wine Option: Add 1/2 cup of red wine to the broth for a richer, more complex sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra butter or milk for creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze the braised lamb (without the mashed potatoes) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes, braise the lamb on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-8 hours in a slow cooker.

Can I use lamb shoulder instead of lamb shanks?

Yes, lamb shoulder works well and will also become tender after slow cooking.

What is the best type of potato for mashed potatoes?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.

Can I make the lamb shanks ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

How can I thicken the sauce?

You can reduce the sauce on the stove after cooking or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

Can I substitute chicken or pork for the lamb?

While lamb provides a unique flavor, chicken thighs or pork shanks can be used as alternatives.

What can I serve with this dish besides mashed potatoes?

Polenta, rice, or crusty bread are excellent alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and almond milk.

How do I know when the lamb is done?

The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone with a fork.

Conclusion

Braised Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a timeless recipe that combines rich, savory flavors with a comforting side dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a family meal, this dish is sure to impress. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and soul-warming taste make it a go-to recipe for special occasions or any day you crave something extraordinary.