A Bright, Comforting Easter Dish That Deserves a Spot All Year Long
You know those recipes that feel like a Sunday afternoon wrapped in sunshine? This is one of them. My aunt used to make lamb for Easter every year, slow-roasted in the oven, and the smell of rosemary and lemon would drift through the screen door as we ran around the yard. I’ve taken her concept and made it work in the slow cooker, which means less oven babysitting and more time to spend with the people you love.
This Lemon Herb Lamb Shoulder is tender, citrusy, and full of spring energy—but honestly? I made it once in late October just because I needed that flavor to brighten the mood.
Why I Love It
It’s spring in a bowl. There’s a freshness from the lemon, earthiness from the herbs, and that rich, cozy flavor of slow-cooked lamb. It tastes like a holiday meal, but it cooks itself while you’re hiding eggs or sipping coffee on the porch.
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Lamb Shoulder
Equipment
- slow cooker
- skillet
- Tongs or carving forks
Ingredients
- 1 3.5 to 4 lb bone-in lamb shoulder, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 6 garlic cloves smashed
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion quartered
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Lamb (Optional)
- If you want extra flavor, brown the lamb shoulder in a hot skillet with olive oil for about 3-4 minutes per side. It's not required, but it adds a nice crust. I skip it when I'm pressed for time—still delicious.
Step 2: Build Flavor in the Slow Cooker
- Place the onion, garlic, and a few sprigs of rosemary at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the lamb on top.
- In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the lamb.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours until the meat is fork-tender and practically falling off the bone.
Step 4: Serve with a Spoon (Almost)
- Remove the lamb carefully. It will be super tender. Spoon some of the lemony broth over the top and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or even some chopped for brightness.
Where It Comes From
Lamb is traditionally served in many Mediterranean cultures during spring and Easter festivals. This version draws inspiration from both Greek lemon-herb marinades and Italian-style braising. It’s a mashup of cultures, made easier thanks to the magic of the slow cooker.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Lamb Shoulder is the kind of dish that makes a regular day feel like a celebration. Make it for Easter, sure, but don’t wait a whole year to bring it back. If it brings some sunshine to your table, pass it on and share the recipe with someone you love.
Make sure to like and share if you enjoyed this lamb recipe!