Irresistibly Tender Greek Easter Lamb for a Cozy Feast

Name: Irresistibly Tender Greek Easter Lamb for a Cozy Feast
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 140 min
Total time: 175 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Lamb Shanks (The star of the show); 2 teaspoons Salt (Kosher salt ideal for even seasoning); 1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (Adjust to your liking); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Provides earthy dimension); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Lends a citrusy note); 1 tablespoon Dried Crushed Oregano (Brings herby brightness); 1 medium Onion (Yellow onions are a solid choice); 4 cloves Garlic (Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness); 4 medium Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet); 1 can Diced/Crushed Tomatoes (Adds moisture and acidity); 2 cups Water (Essential for sauce)

Published: February 6, 2026

by Clare

Why is Greek Easter Lamb so special?

Tenderness at Its Finest: The fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks offer an unforgettable texture, making every bite a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Aromatic Bliss: Infused with warm spices and herbs, this dish fills your home with a comforting Mediterranean aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Minimal Effort: This gourmet meal comes together with simple steps, allowing you to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatility: Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, the rich flavors will delight your family and friends anytime.
Memorable Experience: With each serving, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re creating traditions and memories—just like in every family gathering where you enjoy dishes like Greek Yogurt Potato salad.

Greek Easter Lamb Ingredients

• Dive into this delightful dish with high-quality ingredients for the best flavors!

For the Lamb

Lamb Shanks – The star of the show, ensuring optimal tenderness and rich flavor.
Salt – Elevates taste; kosher salt is ideal for an even seasoning.
Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; adjust to your liking.
Ground Cumin – Provides an earthy dimension that complements the lamb beautifully.
Ground Coriander – Lends a citrusy note that brightens the dish beautifully.
Dried Crushed Oregano – This Mediterranean staple brings herby brightness and deep flavor.

For the Vegetables

Onion – Adds sweetness; any variety works, but yellow onions are a solid choice.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; feel free to use less for milder notes.
Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold up well and provide a comforting base.
Diced/Crushed Tomatoes – Adds moisture and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.

For Cooking

Water – Essential for creating a luscious sauce as the lamb cooks.

With these top-notch ingredients, your Greek Easter Lamb will become a treasured centerpiece that captivates hearts and taste buds alike!

How to Make Greek Easter Lamb

Preheat the oven to the Broil setting. This step is essential for developing that beautiful, golden-brown crust on your lovely lamb shanks.
Prepare the lamb shanks by washing and drying them thoroughly. Place them in a steel pan and broil for 25 minutes on the top rack, until they’re golden brown and mouthwatering.
Drain any excess drippings from the pan once broiling is complete. This prevents your dish from becoming too greasy and helps concentrate the flavors.
Combine the chopped onion, grated garlic, seasonings, diced tomatoes, and water in the pan; toss everything gently to ensure the lamb is well-coated in the rich mixture.
Cover the pan tightly with parchment paper and foil. This helps trap moisture and flavors as your beautiful lamb shanks cook.
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the lamb to become tender and juicy.
Uncover the pan and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes. This will give your dish a lovely crispy top that everyone will adore.
Flip the lamb shanks and bake for another 20-30 minutes, until they’re tender and falling off the bone, creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an added pop of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Easter Lamb and potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep all the ingredients, including the lamb shanks, onions, garlic, and spices, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply place everything in your pan, cover tightly with foil, and let the flavors meld together overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just follow the cooking instructions, starting with broiling the lamb. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty Mediterranean dish that tastes just as delicious as day one, with minimal effort on your part. Enjoy a wonderful family meal without the last-minute rush!

How to Store and Freeze Greek Easter Lamb

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the lamb has completely cooled before sealing to preserve its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze Greek Easter Lamb, package it in airtight freezer bags or containers, ensuring all air is removed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, for optimal taste and texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: For a hassle-free meal, prepare the lamb and assemble all ingredients a day in advance, storing them in the fridge overnight before cooking!

What to Serve with Greek Lamb & Potatoes in the Oven?

Creating a delightful meal is all about pairing the comforting warmth of this dish with complementary sides and beverages.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes pair beautifully with the rich lamb, soaking up all the delicious juices and making every bite a blissful experience.
Greek Salad: A fresh and zesty salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives offers a refreshing contrast, brightening the meal with crisp textures and tart flavors.
Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy, cool sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and dill adds just the right touch of herbal freshness to balance the hearty lamb.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring vibrant colors and sweet, caramelized flavors that complement the earthy richness of the lamb shanks.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce, ensuring you enjoy every last drop of flavor.
A Bold Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the meal; its robust flavor perfectly intensifies the taste of the lamb.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These tender, sweet carrots offer a delightful contrast to the savory-lamb dish, adding a subtle sweetness that enhances every bite.
Baklava: For dessert, this flaky pastry filled with nuts and honey will finish your meal on a sweet note and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Lemonade: A fresh and citrusy lemonade cleanses the palate and provides a refreshing sip alongside the rich flavors of the feast.

Greek Easter Lamb Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your dish even more personal and satisfying!

Sweet Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a touch of sweetness and a nutrient boost. They’ll bring a lovely color and flavor contrast to the dish.
Add Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or bell peppers for an easy way to introduce more vegetables and enhance the dish’s vibrant colors! Their natural sweetness complements the richness of the lamb perfectly.
Mediterranean Touch: Incorporate Kalamata olives or capers for a tangy burst of flavor that beautifully showcases Mediterranean influences. This change will also add a bit of briny goodness to your sauce.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add chopped red chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The warmth they bring will elevate the flavor profile while keeping it exciting.
Tzatziki Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle each plate with homemade tzatziki or a creamy dill sauce. The cool, refreshing notes create a delightful contrast to the rich, warm lamb.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs, like rosemary or mint, along with your base oregano. Their fragrant notes will add a delightful twist to the overall flavor!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for a delightful crunch. Their nutty flavor will enhance the dish’s savory goodness.
Marinated Lamb: Try marinating the lamb shanks overnight in yogurt and spices before cooking them. This will result in even more tender meat and a deeper flavor profile.

Let your creativity flourish as you adapt this recipe to your preferred tastes and dietary needs!

Expert Tips for Greek Easter Lamb

Choose Quality Lamb: Use fresh, high-quality lamb shanks for the best tenderness and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged options that might lack quality.
Broiling Benefits: Don’t skip the broiling step! This crucial process enhances the flavors and gives the lamb a delightful golden crust that everyone will love.
Covering is Key: Ensure your pan is tightly covered with parchment paper and foil to keep moisture in. This is essential for a juicy Greek Easter Lamb that melts in your mouth!
Resting Time Matters: Let the lamb rest for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and juicy.
Get Creative with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices and herbs according to your taste. A little extra oregano or a dash of smoked paprika can elevate your dish even further!

Greek Easter Lamb Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting lamb shanks?
Absolutely! When choosing lamb shanks, go for fresh, high-quality cuts. Look for shanks that have a bright, reddish color and a bit of marbling, which indicates tenderness and flavor. Avoid any with dark spots or a strong odor, as this might suggest they’re past their prime.

How should I store leftovers of Greek Easter Lamb?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the lamb has cooled completely before sealing to keep it moist and flavorful. If you’re planning to eat it later and want it at its best, it’s always best to cool it down properly first.

Can I freeze Greek Easter Lamb? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Greek Easter Lamb, allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer the dish to an airtight freezer bag or container. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are common problems when making Greek Easter Lamb, and how can I troubleshoot them?
Some common issues include dry meat or sauce. To troubleshoot dryness, make sure you don’t skip the covering step with parchment and foil, as this traps moisture. If your sauce isn’t rich enough, try adding a splash of red wine or a bit more diced tomatoes for extra flavor. Remember that letting the lamb rest after cooking is also key, as it allows juices to redistribute back into the meat for a more enjoyable eating experience.

Is Greek Easter Lamb suitable for people with allergies?
While this dish is primarily meat and vegetables, it’s important to watch for allergies to ingredients like garlic or specific spices like cumin. If you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions, consider substituting garlic with a pinch of asafetida for flavor, and check the labels on any canned ingredients to ensure they’re allergy-safe. Always feel free to customize the spices and herbs to suit your needs!

Can pets eat Greek Easter Lamb?
It’s best to avoid giving pets any of the seasoned lamb or potatoes, as some spices, like garlic and onion, can be harmful to them. However, plain cooked lamb without any seasonings is usually safe in moderation. Always consult with your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your furry friends.