Are you looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than a delicious and satisfying lamb stew! With its rich flavor and tender texture, lamb is a natural fit for slow cooker cooking. In this collection of 20 hearty lamb stew recipes, we’ve gathered a diverse range of flavors and spices to tantalize your taste buds. From classic combinations with root vegetables to bold and spicy variations with harissa and chickpeas, there’s something here for every palate.
In the following pages, you’ll find inspiring and easy-to-make slow cooker lamb stews that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you through the process of preparing a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, grab your slow cooker, and get ready to cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of lamb stew!
Classic Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful lamb stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a cold winter day. This classic recipe is easy to prepare, tenderly cooked, and packed with nutritious root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 cup lamb broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the lamb, onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery.
3. Pour in the lamb broth and water, then stir in the tomato paste.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Mediterranean Lamb Stew with Olives and Tomatoes
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of lamb, olives, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in. The Mediterranean flavors will transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in olives, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add diced tomatoes and browned lamb.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Moroccan-Spiced Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
This hearty stew combines tender lamb with a blend of aromatic spices and rich flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and no fuss, this Moroccan-inspired dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb with salt and black pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the lamb to the slow cooker, followed by the diced tomatoes and broth.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Herb-Infused Lamb Stew with Red Wine
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful lamb stew, infused with a blend of aromatic herbs and the depth of red wine. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return lamb to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven.
5. Simmer at 300°F (150°C) for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Irish Lamb Stew with Guinness
Rich and hearty, this slow cooker lamb stew infused with the deep flavors of Guinness is perfect for a cold winter’s day. Perfectly tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lamb, onion, garlic, potatoes, carrot, Guinness, tomato paste, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Greek-Style Lamb Stew with Lemon and Oregano
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this hearty lamb stew, infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 2 sprigs fresh oregano, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown lamb in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add wine, broth, lemon juice, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to the pot; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Lamb and Barley Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker lamb and barley recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The lamb shanks fall-apart tender, while the barley adds a delightful texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lamb shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the lamb, onion, garlic, barley, chicken broth, water, and thyme.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Harissa Lamb Stew with Chickpeas
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy lamb stew infused with the bold flavors of harissa, a North African chili pepper paste. This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Stir in cumin, paprika, and harissa paste; cook 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, browned lamb, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with Sweet Potatoes
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting slow cooker lamb stew infused with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This hearty, one-pot meal is perfect for a family dinner or a relaxing weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Transfer the lamb to the slow cooker. Add the sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
French Lamb Stew with Herbes de Provence
Experience the rich flavors of Provence with this hearty lamb stew infused with the region’s signature blend of herbs, Herbes de Provence. This comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Herbes de Provence
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Herbes de Provence, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to the pot; season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Tender lamb, flavorful lentils, and aromatic spices come together in this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine lamb, lentils, onion, garlic, carrot, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Indian-Spiced Lamb Stew with Coconut Milk
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of India with this hearty lamb stew infused with a rich coconut milk broth and a blend of traditional spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and cardamom to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with Rosemary and Garlic
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender lamb, aromatic rosemary, and pungent garlic, all slow-cooked to perfection. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lamb, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and onion.
2. Pour in chicken broth and red wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Lamb and Mushroom Stew with Thyme
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of rich lamb flavor, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add thyme, bay leaf, and broth to the pot.
5. Return lamb to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 1 hour or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with Apricots and Almonds
Rich flavors of lamb, apricots, and almonds come together in this aromatic slow cooker stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This hearty dish is ideal for a Sunday dinner or a comforting treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apricots, dried and chopped
– 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the lamb in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked lamb to the slow cooker.
3. Mix in the apricots, almonds, diced tomatoes, broth, and cumin.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Persian Lamb Stew with Pomegranate Molasses
This hearty stew is a staple of Persian cuisine, with tender lamb and sweet pomegranate molasses creating a rich and flavorful dish. Serve over fluffy basmati rice for a truly authentic experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the lamb in small batches, removing from heat when browned.
3. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, pomegranate molasses, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with White Beans
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender lamb, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an ideal comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), rinsed and drained
– 1 cup lamb broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine lamb, onion, garlic, white beans, lamb broth, red wine (if using), olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Lamb and Spinach Stew with Cumin
This flavorful stew combines tender lamb, nutritious spinach, and aromatic cumin for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the browned lamb back into the pot, along with diced tomatoes and salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
7. Stir in fresh spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with Carrots and Parsnips
This slow cooker lamb stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With the tender lamb, sweet carrots, and nutty parsnips, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the lamb in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the browned lamb, carrots, parsnips, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and rosemary to the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Lamb and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric
Warm up with a flavorful and nutritious Lamb and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric! This aromatic stew is perfect for a cozy night in, packed with tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and the vibrant warmth of turmeric.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups lamb or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove the browned lamb from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chickpeas, broth, and browned lamb to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 hearty lamb stew recipes that are perfect for a slow cooker. From classic combinations to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try the Mediterranean Lamb Stew with Olives and Tomatoes, the Moroccan-Spiced Slow Cooker Lamb Stew, or the Indian-Spiced Lamb Stew with Coconut Milk. Each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the rich flavors of lamb in a comforting, slow-cooked dish. Whether you’re looking for a warm winter meal or a comforting dinner solution, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
