Roast Lamb Shoulder With Garlic Herbs

Garlic Herb Roast Lamb Shoulder is a flavorful and tender centerpiece for your Easter dinner. Slow-roasted with fresh herbs, garlic, and Dijon mustard, this dish is rich, aromatic, and perfect for a festive gathering. The long roasting time ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the optional addition of red wine enhances the depth of flavor. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a truly special meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Easter – A classic, hearty dish that’s ideal for holiday gatherings.
• Rich and Flavorful – Fresh herbs, garlic, and mustard infuse the lamb with bold flavors.
• Tender and Juicy – Slow-roasting results in a succulent, fall-apart texture.
• Easy to Prepare – Simple seasoning and roasting make this a stress-free main course.
• Versatile Pairing – Complements a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to fresh salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (4-5 lb) lamb shoulder
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup red wine (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally with its juices.
5. If using, add red wine to the pan during the last hour of cooking for enhanced flavor.
6. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes – 4 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Butter Roast Lamb – Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
• Mediterranean Style – Add lemon zest and oregano for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Spicy Herb Lamb – Include red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for added heat.
• Slow Cooker Option – Cook on low for 8 hours instead of roasting in the oven.
• Balsamic Glazed Lamb – Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the lamb in the last 30 minutes of roasting.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the lamb is done?

Use a meat thermometer. For tender lamb shoulder, cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).

Can I use lamb leg instead of shoulder?

Yes, but lamb leg may cook faster and be slightly leaner than shoulder. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of red wine?

You can substitute beef broth or pomegranate juice for a similar depth of flavor.

Should I cover the lamb while roasting?

It is not necessary, but if the lamb browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.

Can I marinate the lamb overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavor. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before roasting.

What sides go well with roast lamb?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, asparagus, or a fresh salad pair well with lamb.

How do I make the lamb extra crispy?

Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 8 hours for a fall-apart texture.

How long should I let the lamb rest before slicing?

Let the lamb rest for at least 15 minutes to retain its juices.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use half the amount of dried herbs as they are more concentrated in flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Roast Lamb Shoulder is a delicious and impressive Easter dinner main dish that is sure to please your guests. The slow-roasted lamb is infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, making it tender and flavorful. Whether served with classic sides or given a unique twist, this dish is a must-try for any holiday table. Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal that will become a family favorite!