Baked Lamb Shanks Recipe – Slow-Cooked, Tender & Irresistibly Flavorful

If you’re searching for a dish that combines luxurious flavor with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, our Baked Lamb Shanks recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, this slow-cooked recipe transforms humble lamb shanks into a rich, aromatic feast that’s guaranteed to impress. With a delicate blend of herbs, vegetables, and a savory tomato-based broth, every bite is a symphony of flavors that lingers long after the meal.

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 2 lamb shanks – The star of the dish. Lamb shanks are perfect for slow cooking as their meat becomes tender and succulent, soaking up all the flavors of the broth.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Used for searing the lamb and sautéing vegetables, adding a subtle fruity richness.
• 1 onion, chopped – Provides a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic warmth and savory undertones.
• 2 carrots, chopped – Adds subtle sweetness and body to the sauce, balancing the richness of the lamb.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Contributes an earthy, aromatic base for the braising liquid.
• 2 cups beef broth – The liquid foundation that keeps the lamb moist and infuses it with savory flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Provides acidity and depth, complementing the rich meat.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Concentrates flavor and adds a slightly sweet, umami-rich dimension.
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary – Infuses a piney, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with lamb.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme – Adds subtle herbal complexity to the slow-cooked sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Slow cooking at a low temperature ensures the lamb shanks become tender while absorbing the rich flavors of the broth and vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Lamb Shanks

Pat the lamb shanks dry with a paper towel. This ensures a perfect sear. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning is crucial for building layers of flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Lamb

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Browning locks in the juices and creates a rich, savory crust. Remove the shanks and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot (don’t clean it!), add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base called a mirepoix, essential for a deep, complex sauce.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the paste, deepening the sauce’s flavor and adding a rich, slightly sweet undertone.

Step 6: Add Liquid and Herbs

Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release all the flavorful browned bits. Add fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs for an aromatic, herbaceous depth.

Step 7: Return the Lamb

Place the lamb shanks back into the pot, nestling them into the broth and vegetables. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Bake Until Tender

Transfer the pot to the oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone. Test doneness by pulling the meat gently with a fork—it should separate effortlessly.

Step 9: Finish and Adjust

Remove the pot from the oven. Discard the rosemary and thyme sprigs. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This final step ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Lamb Shanks

• Sear properly: Don’t skip browning—it creates a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the sauce.
• Low and slow: Cooking at 325°F guarantees tender, juicy meat without drying it out.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme make a noticeable difference compared to dried herbs.
• Rest before serving: Let the lamb shanks sit for 5-10 minutes before plating to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Baked Lamb Shanks over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery polenta, or a bed of fluffy couscous. Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete, restaurant-quality meal at home. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for a stunning presentation.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This dish is adored for its tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb and rich, aromatic sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. The slow-cooking process ensures that every bite is infused with the flavors of the herbs, broth, and vegetables. It’s a recipe that impresses guests yet remains surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Conclusion

Our Baked Lamb Shanks recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With minimal ingredients, straightforward steps, and a slow-cooked method, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. Tender, succulent, and packed with rich, aromatic flavors, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for family dinners and festive gatherings. Treat yourself to this luxurious yet easy-to-make meal—your taste buds will thank you!