Nothing beats the rich aroma of slow-cooked lamb filling your kitchen. This easy yet flavorful dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prep. Tender, juicy lamb, infused with fragrant rosemary and caramelized onions, makes for a meal that’s both comforting and impressive—without requiring hours of active cooking.
Body Overview
Slow cooking transforms lamb shoulder into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. The long, gentle heat breaks down the meat’s fibers, making it incredibly tender while allowing it to absorb the rich flavors of rosemary, onions, and stock.
This foolproof recipe requires minimal prep—just season, set, and let the slow cooker do the work. The result? Deeply flavorful, fall-apart lamb with a built-in onion-infused sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over the meat. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of goodness.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 kg lamb shoulder (bone-in)
- 6 small brown onions (peeled)
- 6 rosemary sprigs
- 250 mL chicken stock
- Sea salt & cracked black pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients
- Place peeled onions in the slow cooker, forming a bed for the lamb.
- Position the lamb shoulder on top, ensuring it sits above the onions.
- Season generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
- Remove rosemary leaves from the sprigs and scatter them around the lamb.
- Pour in the chicken stock to enhance moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
- The lamb is ready when it becomes so tender that you can easily pull it apart with tongs.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Transfer the lamb and onions to a serving platter.
- Drizzle with the flavorful onion sauce from the slow cooker.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooked Lamb
✔ Use Bone-In Lamb Shoulder – The bone adds depth of flavor, and the slow cooking process makes it easy to remove.
✔ Brown the Lamb First (Optional) – If you have time, sear the lamb in a hot pan before placing it in the slow cooker. This adds a deep, caramelized crust for extra richness.
✔ Let It Rest – Once cooked, let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before shredding. This helps retain its juices for maximum tenderness.
✔ Use the Sauce Wisely – The onion-infused juices from the slow cooker make a fantastic gravy or drizzle. Reduce it in a pan for a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
✔ Perfect Side Pairings – Serve your lamb with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes (classic pairing)
- Crusty bread (to soak up the sauce)
- Roasted carrots & parsnips
- A glass of red wine (pairs beautifully!)
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooked Lamb with Onions and Rosemary is a set-and-forget recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.
The tender, juicy lamb, the caramelized onions, and the rich, herb-infused sauce make every bite a pure delight. Give it a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Happy Cooking!
