Easy Crockpot Lamb Stew

The aroma of slow-cooked lamb, mingling with earthy root vegetables and a hint of rosemary, always reminds me of cozy Sunday suppers. There’s something so comforting about a hearty stew simmering away in the crockpot all day. I’ve made this crockpot lamb stew countless times in my Texas kitchen, tweaking it here and there until it became a true family favorite. And let me tell you, even my picky eaters gobble it up! This recipe is designed to give you a flavorful, tender lamb stew with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Trust me, this will be a hit in your family!

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are both delicious and easy. This crockpot lamb stew hits all the right notes. Here’s why it works:

• Hands-off cooking: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do its thing.
• Flavor-packed: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying stew.
• Kid-friendly: Even the little ones love the tender lamb and soft vegetables.
• Make-ahead potential: Perfect for prepping in the morning and coming home to a warm, comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lamb stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Ingredient Notes

Lamb Stew Meat: Look for pre-cut stew meat to save time, or buy a lamb shoulder and cut it yourself. The shoulder cut has great flavor and becomes incredibly tender during slow cooking.

Beef Broth: I prefer beef broth for its rich flavor, but you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth if needed. If you are using low sodium broth, you may need to adjust the salt at the end.

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape well during slow cooking and have a creamy texture. Red potatoes or russet potatoes can also be used, but they may become a bit softer.

Rosemary and Thyme: Fresh herbs are wonderful, but dried herbs work just as well in a crockpot stew. If using fresh, use 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary and 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Lamb (Optional but Recommended). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season lamb cubes generously with salt and pepper. Sear the lamb in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the lamb will steam instead of sear. Set the seared lamb aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot. Add the seared lamb (if using), beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lamb is very tender.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Peas. Add the cubed potatoes to the crockpot and cook for another 1-2 hours on low or 30-45 minutes on high, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional). If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. After testing this several times, I learned that using a slurry is a great way to have the perfect consistency for the stew.

Step 7: Finish and Serve. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Don’t skip the searing! Searing the lamb adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get without it.
• Use good quality broth. The broth is the base of the stew, so use a good quality one for the best flavor.
• Adjust cooking time as needed. Every crockpot is different, so you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on your model.
• Add a splash of red wine. For an even richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of red wine to the crockpot along with the broth. My husband is very fond of it.
• Make it a complete meal. Serve the stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Kid-friendly tip: Cut the lamb and vegetables into smaller pieces for younger children.
• Don’t overcook the peas. Add the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Store leftover crockpot lamb stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Make-Ahead: Chop the vegetables and sear the lamb the day before. Store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it cook.

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free broth if you are concerned about cross-contamination.

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the lamb with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno to the crockpot for a spicy kick.

Root Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or rutabaga to the stew. I haven’t personally tested these but I have had friends who said it was delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare some of the components in advance. Chop vegetables a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Searing the meat in advance can also help speed things up. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better for busy mornings.

How do I know when the lamb is done?

The lamb is done when it is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker, but it generally takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat or even chicken thighs for the lamb. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the type of meat you use.

What if my stew is too watery?

If your stew is too watery, you can thicken it by stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water or all-purpose flour and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Another option is to remove some of the liquid from the crockpot and simmer it in a saucepan until it reduces and thickens, then return it to the crockpot.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is generally well-received by kids. The lamb is tender, and the vegetables are soft. If you have picky eaters, you can cut the lamb and vegetables into smaller pieces or omit the peas.

Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding a bay leaf to the stew during cooking for a subtle, aromatic flavor. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for a deeper, richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this crockpot lamb stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also make great accompaniments.

For a comforting presentation, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.

This recipe makes generous portions, perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers for lunch the next day.

I truly believe this crockpot lamb stew will become a staple in your family’s meal rotation. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! And while you’re at it, check out some of my other favorite crockpot recipes or sign up for my newsletter to get delicious, family-friendly recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking, y’all!

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