Some might say you can’t cook a rack of lamb in a slow cooker, but they need to try this recipe! Made with lamb racks, plum sauce, tomato sauce, lemon slices, red wine vinegar, grated ginger, and rosemary.

To cook a Rack of Lamb in your slow cooker or crockpot, combine the sauces and spices, pour over the lamb, and cook on low for about 8 hours.

I love how the slow cooker makes the lamb so tender and flavorful. I highly recommend using fresh rosemary for the best taste.

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Can I use boneless lamb for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless lamb for this recipe. However, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking. Boneless cuts cook faster than bone-in ones. Check for doneness by slicing a piece to see if it reaches your preferred level.

Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb Ingredients

For the lamb:

• 2 lamb racks
• 1 cup of plum sauce or jam
• 1 tbsp of tomato sauce
• 1 lemon, cut into slices
• 1 tbsp of red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp of grated ginger
• 1 tsp of sweet chili sauce
• 2-3 sprigs of rosemary

For the gravy:

• 2 tsp of cornflour

For the rosemary mash:

• 1.5 kg of potatoes, quartered and cooked until tender
• ¾ cup of milk
• 80 g of butter, cubed
• 1 tsp of salt, plus extra for seasoning
• ½ tsp of ground black pepper
• 1 sprig of rosemary, chopped

To serve:

• A handful of green beans steamed until just tender

How To Make Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb

1. Prepare the lamb racks: Place both lamb racks into the slow cooker, ensuring they fit snugly, and set it to low.
2. Combine the ingredients: Mix together the plum sauce, tomato sauce, lemon slices, red wine vinegar, grated ginger, sweet chili sauce, and rosemary sprigs, then pour this mixture over the lamb.
3. Cook the lamb: Let the lamb cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours if you are short on time.
4. Carve the lamb: Once the lamb is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and carve up each rack into individual portions.
5. Prepare the gravy: Drain some liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan and bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally.
6. Thicken the gravy: In a cup, mix 2 tsp of cornflour with enough water to make a paste, then stir this into the saucepan until the sauce thickens and separates from the oil.
7. Prepare the rosemary mash: Place the milk, butter, and chopped rosemary in a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer, then combine with the cooked potatoes and mash until smooth.
8. Serve the dish: Spoon the mashed potatoes onto a large serving platter, top with steamed green beans and slow-cooked lamb racks, then drizzle with gravy and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker rack of lamb with rosemary mash and steamed green beans!

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, adding vegetables to the slow cooker enhances the meal. Add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips at the beginning of cooking. This will allow them to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavors of the lamb and sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a more vibrant flavor to the dish. Simply chop it finely before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Check liquid levels: Ensure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker to prevent the lamb from drying out. Add a bit of broth if needed.
• Rest the lamb: After cooking, let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making the meat more tender.
• Mash potatoes thoroughly: For the best texture, use a potato masher or ricer to ensure the potatoes are smooth and free of lumps.
• Skim the gravy: When preparing the gravy, skim off excess fat from the top. This will result in a smoother and less greasy sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Use different herbs: Substitute rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
• Try different potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for the mash. They add a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the lamb.
• Add garlic: For extra flavor, add a few cloves of minced garlic to the slow cooker. It enhances the overall taste of the lamb.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture for a bit of heat. Adjust to your preference.

What To Serve With Rack of Lamb

Serve your slow cooker rack of lamb with roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed sweet potatoes, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

You can also pair it with creamy polenta, honey-glazed carrots, or wild rice pilaf for a more creative touch.

How To Store Leftover Rack of Lamb

In The Fridge:

Place the leftover rack of lamb in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent odor transfer. I prefer using glass containers for the best results.

In The Freezer:

Wrap the lamb tightly in aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. I suggest labeling the bag with the date to keep track of storage time.

How To Reheat Leftover Rack of Lamb

Reheat your leftover rack of lamb in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway through for even heating.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker French Onion Lamb Chops
• Slow Cooker Lamb Obsession
• Slow Cooker Lamb And Potato Curry