This Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate cozy meal! With tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb braised in a rich broth and served with buttery mashed potatoes, it’s perfect for a special family dinner or impressing guests.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Shank:
- 2 lamb shanks
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for searing
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This recipe uses simple ingredients to build incredible depth of flavor, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This low and slow temperature will help tenderize the lamb and make it incredibly flavorful.
2. Sear the Lamb Shanks:
- In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper, then sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and garlic.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, creating a rich base for the braising liquid.
4. Build the Braising Liquid:
- Add the thyme and beef broth to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- Nestle the browned lamb shanks back into the pot, ensuring they’re surrounded by the flavorful broth.
5. Braise the Lamb Shanks:
- Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Let it braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the lamb is incredibly tender and almost falling off the bone.
6. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the lamb is braising, peel and chop the potatoes.
- Boil them in a pot of salted water for 15-20 minutes until they’re soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add the heavy cream and butter, mashing until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- When the lamb shanks are done, carefully remove them from the oven.
- Serve each lamb shank over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, and spoon some of the delicious braising liquid over the top for added flavor.
Helpful Tips for the Best Lamb Shank Dinner
- Sear the Lamb for Extra Flavor: Browning the lamb before braising helps seal in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.
- Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy, oven-safe pot works best for braising, as it maintains even heat.
- Adjust Cream and Butter for Desired Creaminess: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, feel free to add an extra splash of cream or a bit more butter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the perfect balance of tender, flavorful meat and creamy mashed potatoes. The low and slow braising process fills the lamb with rich flavors, while the potatoes add comforting creaminess. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make right at home.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of lamb?
- Yes, lamb shoulder works well too, though cooking times may vary slightly.
2. How do I make the mashed potatoes extra fluffy?
- Use a potato masher or ricer to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture, and add a bit of extra cream if desired.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely. You can make the lamb shanks in advance and reheat them on the stovetop with extra broth. The flavors deepen as they sit!
4. What can I serve with this dish?
- Roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a simple side salad pair beautifully with this meal.
5. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
- Yes, but beef broth adds a richer flavor to the lamb.
Conclusion
This Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort and elegance to the table. With its tender braised lamb and creamy potatoes, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy each delicious bite!