Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and luxurious dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or whenever I want to treat myself to a hearty, flavorful meal. The lamb shank is braised until tender and succulent, absorbing all the rich flavors of herbs, wine, and aromatics. Paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, this dish is a satisfying combination of textures and tastes that’s sure to impress. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two of my favorite comfort foods—tender lamb and creamy mashed potatoes—into one decadent dish. The braised lamb shank is full of rich, savory flavors, and the slow-cooked process ensures the meat falls off the bone effortlessly. The mashed potatoes are smooth, creamy, and the perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices from the lamb. It’s a meal that’s both cozy and elegant, making it perfect for a family dinner or a celebratory occasion.

Ingredients

For the lamb shank:

• 2 lamb shanks

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup red wine

• 2 cups beef broth (or lamb stock, if available)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 sprigs rosemary

• 2 sprigs thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the creamy mashed potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Lamb Shank:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the lamb shanks and set them aside.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and let the wine reduce by half, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Return the lamb shanks to the pot. Add the beef broth, rosemary, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.

6. Braise the lamb shanks in the oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Check occasionally and add more broth if needed to ensure the lamb remains mostly covered in liquid.

7. Once the lamb is done, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the sauce to remove the vegetables and herbs, then return the sauce to the pot. Bring it to a simmer and reduce slightly, if needed, for a richer flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

1. While the lamb is braising, peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks.

2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and begin mashing. Gradually add the heavy cream (or milk) and continue to mash until smooth and creamy.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in some chopped fresh chives or parsley for added flavor and garnish.

To Serve:

1. Spoon a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.

2. Place the lamb shank on top of the mashed potatoes, then spoon the reduced sauce over the meat and potatoes.

3. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, like rosemary or parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 people with hearty portions. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 2.5 to 3 hours for the lamb to braise in the oven. The mashed potatoes can be made in the last 20 minutes of the lamb’s cooking time, ensuring everything is ready to serve at the same time.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and color, I can add parsnips, celery, or even mushrooms to the braising liquid. Roasted vegetables on the side also complement the lamb and mashed potatoes beautifully.

• Spicy Lamb Shank: If I want a spicier kick, I can add a few dried chili flakes to the braising liquid, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra punch of flavor in the mashed potatoes, I can add roasted garlic or garlic powder while mashing the potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lamb can be reheated in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for quicker reheating. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore their creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The lamb shanks actually taste even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. I can prepare the dish a day in advance, then reheat it in the oven or stovetop.

Can I use a slow cooker for the lamb shanks?

Yes, I can use a slow cooker. After searing the lamb and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls off the bone.

Can I use a different cut of lamb?

While lamb shank is ideal for braising, I can substitute it with lamb shoulder or even lamb chops if needed. Just adjust the cooking time based on the cut.

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, mashed potatoes can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. To reheat, I can add a little milk or cream and warm them up over low heat or in the microwave.

Can I make this dish without wine?

If I prefer not to use wine, I can substitute the wine with more beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for some acidity.

Conclusion

Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender lamb, braised in a rich, flavorful sauce, pairs beautifully with the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. This meal feels like a luxurious treat yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether I’m making it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress every time.