When it comes to cooking for special occasions, lamb is a popular choice for many. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it perfect for a variety of dishes, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering savory lamb recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic rack of lamb with mint pesto to flavorful tagines and stews, there’s something on this list for every palate.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a hearty side dish, these lamb recipes are sure to satisfy. With flavors ranging from Mediterranean herbs to Indian spices, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your next special occasion meal.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of lamb and discover some incredible recipe ideas that will elevate your cooking game!
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Mint Pesto
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant and flavorful dish, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 rack of lamb (6-8 bones), trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mint Pesto (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place the rack of lamb on a large plate or tray, and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with Mint Pesto.
Mint Pesto:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup garlic scapes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth. Serve with roasted lamb.
Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Tagine Recipe
A classic North African dish, this slow-cooked lamb tagine is a flavorful and aromatic meal perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. With its rich flavors of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and olive oil to the bowl; mix until everything is coated with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Greek-Style Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with these tender lamb gyros wrapped in a crispy pita and topped with creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese for topping
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix lamb, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Form into small patties.
3. Grill lamb for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing lamb on pita, topping with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Lamb Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of lamb chops with the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the lamb chops with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Indian Lamb Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of spices, lamb, and coconut milk. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add browned lamb back into the pan. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta Kebabs
These lamb kofta kebabs are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, with the rich flavor of lamb mixed with aromatic spices and herbs. Serve them at your next BBQ or dinner party for a taste of the exotic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 20-25 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Thread 1-2 tablespoons of the lamb mixture onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each kofta.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Grill or broil kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and sauces.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine Sauce
Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine Sauce Recipe
A classic comfort dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve lamb shanks with the rich red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Lamb Biryani with Basmati Rice
Savor the flavors of India with this classic Lamb Biryani recipe, featuring tender lamb pieces cooked to perfection and served over fragrant basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add lamb cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Combine cooked rice with the lamb mixture. Mix well to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired recipe. Sweet bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of lamb, feta cheese, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lamb mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Persian Lamb Stew with Eggplant
This classic Persian stew is a staple of Iranian cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The combination of tender lamb, rich spices, and velvety eggplant creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add lamb, diced tomatoes, and broth; bring to a boil.
7. Simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish, this recipe combines the rich flavor of lamb with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat crushed tomatoes and chopped basil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve meatballs in tomato basil sauce, drizzled with olive oil.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Lamb Burgers with Harissa Mayo
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with these bold and flavorful grilled lamb burgers, paired with a creamy harissa mayonnaise. Perfect for adventurous eaters and spice lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup harissa mayo (see below)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Harissa Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp harissa pepper paste
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Mix lamb, breadcrumbs, garlic, and oregano in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Form into 4 patties. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Assemble burgers on buns with harissa mayo, lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lamb and Potato Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb with the simplicity of mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb, onion, and garlic until the lamb is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. While the lamb mixture simmers, boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the lamb mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Lamb Vindaloo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb with the bold spices of India, resulting in a deliciously spicy and aromatic dish. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water or lamb broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lamb pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add water or broth, salt, and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Lamb and Apricot Tagine with Couscous
Experience the warm flavors of Morocco with this aromatic lamb tagine, infused with sweet apricots and served over fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the lamb in batches over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, apricots, chicken broth, honey, cinnamon, ginger, and cumin to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the lamb to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
6. Fluff couscous with a fork and serve alongside the tagine.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lamb Loin with Fig and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory lamb loin recipe, perfectly paired with a rich fig and balsamic glaze. This impressive main course is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb loins (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh or dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season lamb loins with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear lamb loins for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped figs and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add balsamic vinegar and garlic to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Brush the glaze over the lamb loins during the last 10 minutes of cooking (about 15-20 minutes total).
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional figs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Souvlaki with Lemon Garlic Marinade
Savor the bold flavors of Greece with this classic souvlaki recipe, featuring tender lamb skewers smothered in a zesty lemon garlic marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add lamb cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill souvlaki for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lamb and Spinach Lasagna
A flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this lamb and spinach lasagna combines the richness of ground lamb with the nutrients of fresh spinach. A perfect blend of Mediterranean and Italian flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, spinach, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, lamb mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lamb Ribs with Honey Mustard Glaze
Sweet and savory lamb ribs with a sticky honey mustard glaze – perfect for a weekend BBQ or dinner party! This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds lamb ribs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Season lamb ribs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lamb ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over the lamb ribs.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the ribs.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of lamb, chickpeas, and turmeric for a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until softened.
4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, broth, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 savory lamb recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic dishes like rack of lamb and lamb shanks, to international inspirations such as Moroccan tagine and Indian curry, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Greek-style gyros, Middle Eastern kofta kebabs, or Persian stew, or stick to more familiar fare like lamb burgers and shepherd’s pie. With a range of flavors and techniques, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
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