Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

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When it comes to comfort food that feels both luxurious and heartwarming, few dishes rival a perfectly prepared lamb shank. These Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy fall right into that category—tender, fall-off-the-bone meat bathed in a rich, savory sauce that brings the entire dish to life.

Cooked low and slow, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dinner that tastes like it came from a high-end bistro. Earthy rosemary, fresh garlic, and a medley of vegetables enhance the natural richness of the lamb, while the slow braising method ensures each bite is infused with deep, comforting flavor. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday supper or a special gathering, this dish will impress every time.

Why You’ll Love This Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

This recipe combines minimal prep with maximum reward. Once everything is in the pot, your job is mostly done, giving you time to relax as the oven does the work. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, and the flavors deepen beautifully the next day.

You’ll also appreciate how flexible this dish is. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even crusty bread to soak up all that velvety gravy. The presentation is stunning too, making it a centerpiece-worthy main course.

What Kind of Lamb Shanks Should I Use?

Look for meaty hind shanks if you want a more generous serving per person. Fore shanks tend to be smaller but still deliver excellent flavor. Ask your butcher for shanks that are trimmed but still have the bone in—this is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich broth.

Also, if you prefer grass-fed lamb for a slightly leaner and more herbaceous flavor profile, it works wonderfully in this recipe.

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Ingredients for the Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in layering flavor and building the luxurious, comforting taste you expect from a slow-cooked meal.

• Lamb Shanks: The star of the dish, these are ideal for slow cooking, turning tender and juicy as they absorb the flavors around them.
• Onions: Sweet and aromatic, onions provide the foundational flavor in the gravy.
• Carrots: These add a touch of natural sweetness and soak up the savory broth beautifully.
• Garlic: Adds pungency and depth to the herbaceous gravy.
• Fresh Rosemary & Thyme: Essential herbs for infusing the dish with earthy, piney, and floral notes.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a layer of umami and helps thicken the sauce.
• Red Wine: Brings richness and depth; also helps tenderize the lamb.
• Beef or Lamb Stock: The base for the gravy, giving it a meaty, full-bodied flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the shanks and enhancing the overall richness.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the lamb and balance the dish’s flavors.

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How To Make the Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

Step 1: Sear the Lamb

Pat the lamb shanks dry and season generously with salt and pepper. In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, heat olive oil and brown the shanks on all sides. This step locks in flavor and caramelizes the exterior.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the lamb and set aside. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and garlic until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom. Let it simmer until reduced by half, concentrating the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Shanks and Braising Liquid

Return the lamb to the pot and add rosemary, thyme, and enough beef or lamb stock to cover about 2/3 of the meat. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Remove the lamb shanks and strain the sauce if desired. Reduce the gravy on the stovetop for a more intense flavor, then spoon it generously over the lamb before serving.

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How to Serve and Store These Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

These lamb shanks make an unforgettable main course, perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions. Each recipe batch feeds about 4 people generously, with one shank per person.

For serving, ladle the lamb and gravy over a warm bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. If you’re going for a rustic feel, crusty bread on the side works wonders to mop up every bit of that herb-infused gravy.

To store leftovers, let everything cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until hot throughout.

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What to Serve With Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes are the classic pairing that lets the lamb gravy shine.

Creamy Polenta

Soft polenta provides a smooth, cheesy backdrop that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Think parsnips, carrots, and sweet potatoes—a great match in both flavor and texture.

Garlic Green Beans

A crisp, fresh side to contrast the soft, rich lamb.

Herbed Couscous

Fluffy couscous with parsley, lemon zest, and olive oil gives a lighter Mediterranean touch.

Grilled Asparagus

Adds brightness and a hint of char that complements the depth of the lamb.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for dipping and savoring every bit of gravy left on the plate.

Red Wine

A good glass of dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz enhances the dish’s savory depth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this dish gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Absolutely. After searing the lamb and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the lamb is fork-tender.

What if I don’t have red wine?
You can substitute with beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still be rich and flavorful.

Is it okay to skip the searing step?
Technically, yes, but it’s highly recommended. Searing builds flavor and adds that beautiful caramelized crust that enhances the final dish.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go the mashed potato route or try something unexpected like couscous?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these comfort classics. Questions and feedback are always welcome—let’s make amazing meals together.

Find more slow-cooked dishes and dinner inspiration on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

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Conclusion

These Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy are the definition of indulgent comfort food. With minimal prep and a slow cook that transforms the meat into fork-tender perfection, this dish is well worth the wait. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something hearty, it delivers rich flavor, rustic charm, and soul-warming satisfaction.

Be sure to pin and share this recipe, and come back for more cozy, delicious ideas from Meals We Share!

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