Description
This Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, comforting dish that melts in your mouth. The lamb shank is slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone tender in a rich, flavorful sauce, then served over velvety mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Shank:
- 2 lamb shanks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup milk (or more as needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Lamb Shank
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Mix well.
Step 3: Simmer the Lamb
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Let it simmer for 2 to 2 ½ hours, turning occasionally, until the lamb is tender and easily falls off the bone.
Step 4: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- While the lamb is cooking, boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess (optional).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Top with the tender lamb shank and drizzle the rich sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Low and Slow is Key – Cooking the lamb slowly ensures it becomes fall-apart tender.
Use Fresh Herbs – If available, fresh rosemary and thyme add even more flavor.
Make Ahead – The lamb shank can be made a day in advance and reheated for even better flavor.
Mash Potatoes Until Smooth – Use a hand mixer for ultra-creamy mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 ½ hours
- Cuisine: European