How Long Do Lamb Shanks Take to Cook in a Slow Cooker?

Lamb shanks typically take 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low . The goal is to get the meat tender enough to fall off the bone. If it's not quite there, cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Can I Put Raw Lamb Shanks in the Slow Cooker?

Yes, but browning them first is highly recommended . Searing locks in juices and builds depth of flavor, making a huge difference in the final dish.

What is the Best Way to Cook Lamb Shanks?

Slow cooking is the best way, whether in a slow cooker or in the oven. Low, slow heat breaks down the tough connective tissues, creating fall-apart tender meat with a rich, flavorful sauce.

Is Lamb Better in a Slow Cooker or the Oven?

Both methods work! The slow cooker is ideal for hands-off cooking and convenience, while oven-braising (at 325°F/160°C for 2.5–3 hours) provides slightly better caramelization.

Can I Use Beef Stock Instead of Lamb Stock?

Absolutely! Beef stock is a great substitute and still results in a deeply flavorful dish. Adding extra rosemary and thyme helps maintain the classic lamb taste.

Do I Need to Add Red Wine to the Recipe?

Red wine adds depth and richness , but if you prefer, you can substitute it with extra stock and a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks

Description

There’s nothing quite like slow cooker lamb shanks—tender, flavorful, and simmered to perfection in a rich red wine sauce. This recipe is the perfect comfort food, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

4 lamb shanks
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tbsp vegetable or olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine
2 cups lamb stock (or beef stock)
1 tsp rosemary
1 tsp thyme
4 bay leaves
2 ½ tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

Pat the lamb shanks dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet and sear the lamb on all sides for about 10 minutes.
Transfer lamb to the slow cooker.
In the same pan, sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute.
Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits, and let simmer for a minute.
Add stock, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
Pour the mixture over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Remove the lamb shanks and keep warm.
Pour the liquid into a saucepan, whisk in cornstarch slurry, and simmer until thickened.
Adjust seasoning and stir in balsamic vinegar.
Serve the lamb shanks hot, drizzled with sauce.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: slow cooker, lamb shanks, fall-off-the-bone, comfort food