This fall-apart lamb shanks, cooked long and slow in the slow cooker and served with a beautiful rich onion gravy, is made with lamb shanks, onion, gravy powder, water, and rosemary.

To make Lamb Shanks with Onion Gravy in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply layer onions and shanks, mix gravy ingredients, and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.

This dish always reminds me of cozy, slow weekends at home where the delicious aroma fills the house as the shanks tenderize and meld with the savory gravy.

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Can I Use Frozen Lamb Shanks for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen lamb shanks. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the seasoning and gravy to better penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor and texture.

Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks In Onion Gravy Ingredients

• 2 lamb shanks
• 1 large onion
• 1/2 cup of gravy powder (preferably Maggi Rich Gravy Mix)
• 1.5 cups of water
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary

How To Make Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks In Onion Gravy

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Coat the base of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Cut the onion in half; thinly slice one half into rings and finely dice the other half.
2. Layer the base: Arrange the onion rings at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the lamb shanks on top of the sliced onions.
3. Sauté diced onions: While optional, sautéing the diced onions in a small saucepan can enhance the flavor. Once golden, scatter them over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker.
4. Make the gravy: In the same saucepan used for the onions, combine the gravy powder with water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well blended, then pour this mixture over the lamb shanks.
5. Add rosemary: Tuck the rosemary sprigs into the slow cooker among the lamb shanks.
6. Cook: Set your slow cooker to HIGH for 4-5 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours, depending on your schedule.
7. Serve: Present the lamb shanks on a warm bed of mashed garlic potatoes for a comforting meal.

Recipe Tips

• Enhance flavor: Brown the lamb shanks in a skillet before slow cooking to create a rich caramelized crust that infuses the dish with more depth and savory notes.
• Thicken gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with equal parts water and stir into the cooker during the last 30 minutes.
• Utilize leftovers: Transform any leftover lamb into a shepherd’s pie. Simply layer the lamb with veggies and top with mashed potatoes before baking until golden.
• Adjusting herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage if rosemary isn’t to your taste, each brings a unique flavor profile to the lamb shanks.
• Low-sodium option: For a healthier version, use low-sodium gravy powder and skip any additional salt, letting the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through.

What Type of Gravy Powder Is Best for This Dish?

For optimal flavor, use a rich, beef-based gravy powder, such as Maggi Rich Gravy Mix. These types of powders blend well with the lamb’s robust flavor and help create a thick, savory sauce that complements the meat perfectly.

What Should I Do If the Gravy Is Too Thin After Cooking?

If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, set it on high, and cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Recipe Variations

• Red wine enhancement: Replace half of the water with a robust red wine for a richer, more complex gravy that complements the lamb beautifully.
• Root vegetable add-in: Toss in chopped carrots, parsnips, or turnips for extra nutrition and a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with the lamb.
• Spicy kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy to give the dish a gentle heat.
• Mushroom mix-in: Include a cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor that makes the lamb dish even more hearty and satisfying.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of sour cream to the gravy before serving for a silky, luxurious texture.

What To Serve With Lamb Shanks

Serve your Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks in Onion Gravy with sides like sautéed green beans with garlic, roasted beetroot salad, creamy polenta, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash puree. You can also pair them with pearl couscous salad or a crisp apple slaw.

How To Store Leftover Lamb Shanks

In The Fridge:

Store leftover Lamb Shanks in an airtight container. Pour any extra gravy over the shanks to keep them moist. They will last for up to 3 days. Always let the shanks cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

In The Freezer:

Lamb shanks freeze well. Place cooled shanks in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil. Pour over some gravy to protect the meat. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Lamb Shanks

Reheat your leftover Lamb Shanks In Onion Gravy by placing them in a covered oven-safe dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. For quicker reheating, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring the gravy halfway through.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Tuna Mornay
• Slow Cooker Haggis
• Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions