50+ Easy Holiday Lamb Recipes to Delight Your Festive Table

The holiday season is a time to gather with loved ones and celebrate traditions, both old and new.

At the heart of every celebration lies the food that brings us together, and lamb has long been a cherished centerpiece for holiday feasts around the world.

Its rich, tender flavor and versatility make it a perfect choice for any festive occasion.

In this guide, we’ve curated over 50 irresistible holiday lamb recipes to suit every palate and occasion.

From elegant roasts and comforting stews to exotic spiced dishes and creative appetizers, these recipes are designed to elevate your holiday table and leave your guests raving.

Whether you’re a seasoned lamb enthusiast or trying it for the first time, these recipes will help you create unforgettable meals to share with family and friends.

50+ Easy Holiday Lamb Recipes to Delight Your Festive Table

As the holidays approach, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a dish that embodies the joy and warmth of the season.

Lamb’s versatility allows it to shine in a variety of recipes, from traditional roasts to globally inspired dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With these 50+ holiday lamb recipes, you’ll find inspiration to create a feast that not only satisfies but also brings people together.

Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a grand festive gathering, these recipes are your gateway to culinary success.

Embrace the flavors, experiment with the options, and make this holiday season one to remember.

Herb-Crusted Holiday Lamb Roast

A stunning herb-crusted lamb roast is a showstopper for any holiday table. The crust is a blend of fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and Dijon mustard, creating a flavorful and aromatic coating that locks in the lamb’s natural juices. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a rich red wine sauce, making it a memorable centerpiece for your celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 leg of lamb (5–6 lbs), bone-in or boneless
• 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the lamb dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Herb Crust: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
3. Coat the Lamb: Spread Dijon mustard over the surface of the lamb. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the lamb, ensuring an even layer.
4. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Roast for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (medium-rare) or 145°F (medium).
5. Rest and Serve: Allow the lamb to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of red wine sauce.

The herb-crusted holiday lamb roast is a sophisticated and flavorful option for your festive menu. The aromatic herbs and crispy crust elevate the tender lamb, creating a dish that’s both elegant and delicious. Perfect for impressing your guests!

Honey-Glazed Rack of Lamb with Mint Gremolata

A honey-glazed rack of lamb is an irresistible combination of sweetness and savoriness. This recipe features tender lamb coated with a sticky honey glaze, balanced by the zesty freshness of a mint gremolata. It’s a dish that embodies the holiday spirit with vibrant flavors and an impressive presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of lamb (8 ribs each)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 lemon, zested
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the lamb racks with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine honey, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Brush the glaze generously over the lamb.
3. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb racks on a baking sheet, bone side down. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (medium-rare).
4. Make the Gremolata: In a separate bowl, mix mint, lemon zest, parsley, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
5. Finish and Serve: Allow the lamb to rest for 10 minutes. Slice into individual chops and serve with the mint gremolata.

This honey-glazed rack of lamb with mint gremolata is a delightful mix of sweet and refreshing flavors. The tender lamb, coated in a sticky glaze, is beautifully balanced by the zesty gremolata, making it a festive dish that your guests will rave about.

Moroccan-Style Holiday Lamb Tagine

Warm spices and tender lamb come together in this Moroccan-style tagine, perfect for a holiday feast. Slow-cooked with dried fruits, almonds, and a medley of spices, this dish offers an aromatic and rich flavor profile that transports you to a festive Moroccan marketplace. Serve it with fluffy couscous for a complete holiday experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
• ½ cup almonds, toasted
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Lamb: Heat olive oil in a tagine or Dutch oven. Sear the lamb cubes until browned on all sides, then set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, stirring until fragrant.
3. Simmer: Return the lamb to the pot. Add broth, tomatoes, and dried apricots. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Finish: Stir in toasted almonds just before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Serve the tagine hot with couscous or flatbread.

The Moroccan-style holiday lamb tagine is a heartwarming and aromatic dish that adds an exotic touch to your holiday table. Its blend of spices, tender lamb, and sweet dried fruits will captivate your guests and create a lasting impression.

Garlic-Rosemary Lamb Chops with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a sophisticated yet approachable holiday meal, garlic-rosemary lamb chops deliver exceptional flavor with minimal effort. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish highlights the tenderness of lamb with a bold herbal marinade that enhances every bite. It’s a perfect choice for an intimate holiday dinner.

Ingredients:

• 8 lamb chops
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Lamb: Combine garlic, rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub the mixture over the lamb chops and let them marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. Sear the Lamb: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
4. Serve: Plate the lamb chops with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, garnished with rosemary sprigs.

These garlic-rosemary lamb chops with creamy mashed potatoes are a classic holiday dish that feels luxurious and comforting. The herbaceous lamb pairs beautifully with the velvety mashed potatoes, making every bite a celebration of flavor.

Greek-Style Slow-Roasted Leg of Lamb

Transport your holiday feast to the Mediterranean with this Greek-style slow-roasted leg of lamb. Marinated with garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil, then slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb becomes tender and infused with vibrant flavors. Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes and tzatziki for a true Greek experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 leg of lamb (6–7 lbs)
• 6 garlic cloves, sliced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Use a knife to make small incisions in the lamb and insert garlic slices into the slits.
2. Marinate: Rub the lamb with lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Roast: Place the lamb in a roasting pan with the chicken broth and potatoes. Cover tightly with foil and roast for 3–4 hours, basting occasionally. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to crisp the skin.
4. Serve: Allow the lamb to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with potatoes and tzatziki.

This Greek-style slow-roasted leg of lamb is a flavorful centerpiece for your holiday celebration. Its aromatic herbs and juicy, tender meat will transport your guests to the sunny Mediterranean, ensuring your holiday meal is both delicious and unforgettable.

Spiced Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Spiced lamb meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce make a festive yet comforting dish for the holidays. Infused with Middle Eastern spices like cumin and coriander, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for serving with crusty bread or over fluffy rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground lamb, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix and form into small meatballs.
2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the onion until softened. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Simmer the Meatballs: Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with bread or rice.

These spiced lamb meatballs in tomato sauce bring a burst of Middle Eastern flavors to your holiday table. The warm spices and rich sauce make this dish both festive and comforting, ensuring it becomes a new holiday favorite.

Balsamic Glazed Holiday Lamb Roast

Elevate your holiday feast with a succulent balsamic-glazed lamb roast. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze complements the rich, savory lamb, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This centerpiece dish is ideal for a formal holiday dinner and pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 leg of lamb (5–6 lbs)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb in a roasting pan. Brush it with the balsamic glaze and roast for 1 ½ to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (medium-rare).
4. Rest and Serve: Let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables and additional glaze drizzled on top.

The balsamic-glazed holiday lamb roast is a sophisticated and flavorful choice for your festive menu. Its tangy-sweet glaze enhances the lamb’s natural richness, ensuring it’s a dish your guests will remember long after the meal is over.

Holiday Lamb Stew with Red Wine and Root Vegetables

For a cozy and rustic holiday dish, this lamb stew with red wine and root vegetables is a perfect choice. Slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the wine and vegetables create a deeply flavorful broth. It’s a hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 parsnips, chopped
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Lamb: Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the lamb cubes in batches. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in tomato paste.
3. Add Liquids and Vegetables: Return the lamb to the pot. Add red wine, beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Simmer: Cover and cook on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender.
5. Serve: Discard the bay leaf and garnish the stew with fresh thyme. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

This holiday lamb stew with red wine and root vegetables is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly holiday evening. Its rich broth and tender lamb make it an inviting option for sharing warmth and joy with loved ones.

Persian-Style Lamb Shank with Saffron Rice

Bring a touch of Middle Eastern elegance to your holiday table with Persian-style lamb shanks. Braised with aromatic spices, onions, and tomatoes, these lamb shanks are tender and flavorful, served over fragrant saffron rice for a truly luxurious holiday experience.

Ingredients:

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth
• ½ cup dried apricots, chopped
• ½ tsp saffron threads
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sear the Lamb: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the lamb shanks on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add cinnamon and turmeric, stirring until fragrant.
3. Braise the Lamb: Add the tomatoes, broth, and dried apricots to the skillet. Return the lamb shanks, cover, and simmer for 2–3 hours, until tender.
4. Cook the Rice: Soak the saffron threads in 2 tbsp of warm water. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions. Stir in the saffron water and butter just before serving.
5. Serve: Plate the lamb shanks over the saffron rice and spoon some of the braising liquid on top.

Persian-style lamb shank with saffron rice is a stunning addition to your holiday menu. The tender lamb and fragrant saffron rice are a match made in culinary heaven, ensuring your celebration is both exotic and unforgettable.

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Dijon Mustard

Nothing says elegance like a perfectly roasted herb-crusted rack of lamb. This dish features tender lamb coated with a flavorful crust of breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and Dijon mustard. It’s a sophisticated choice for a holiday feast that will impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of lamb (about 1½ lbs each)
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the lamb racks with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
3. Coat the Lamb: Brush Dijon mustard over the lamb. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard to create a crust.
4. Roast: Place the lamb racks on a baking sheet, crust-side up. Roast for 20–25 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual chops.

This herb-crusted rack of lamb is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday celebration. Its crispy, flavorful crust perfectly complements the tender, juicy lamb, making every bite a festive delight.

Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots and Almonds

Transport your holiday guests to the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this Moroccan lamb tagine. Slow-cooked with a medley of spices, dried apricots, and crunchy almonds, this dish is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup dried apricots
• ½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Lamb: Heat olive oil in a tagine or heavy pot. Brown the lamb in batches, then set aside.
2. Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Stir in the cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika.
3. Simmer: Add the lamb, chicken broth, apricots, honey, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Finish and Serve: Top with toasted almonds and serve over couscous.

This Moroccan lamb tagine brings a touch of exotic warmth to your holiday table. The tender lamb and aromatic spices create a unique, flavorful experience that will transport your guests to a Moroccan bazaar.

Honey-Mint Glazed Lamb Shoulder

Celebrate the holidays with a tender lamb shoulder glazed with a delightful blend of honey and fresh mint. This recipe combines sweet, herbal, and savory elements for a perfectly balanced dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lamb shoulder (4–5 lbs)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix honey, mint, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and ground coriander.
3. Roast: Place the lamb shoulder in a roasting pan. Brush generously with the honey-mint glaze. Cover with foil and roast for 3 hours, basting with glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove the foil and roast uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

This honey-mint glazed lamb shoulder is a perfect blend of festive sweetness and savory richness. Its tender, fall-apart texture and unique flavor profile make it an unforgettable addition to your holiday feast.

Garlic and Rosemary Roasted Lamb Leg

Garlic and rosemary roasted lamb leg is a classic holiday dish that exudes tradition and flavor. The simple yet aromatic seasoning allows the natural flavors of the lamb to shine, making it a perfect centerpiece for a memorable family gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 leg of lamb (5–6 lbs)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Lamb: Mix minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the mixture generously all over the lamb leg.
3. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a pan. Roast for about 1½–2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare. Baste with pan juices halfway through cooking.
4. Rest and Carve: Let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before carving into thin slices.

This garlic and rosemary roasted lamb leg is a timeless holiday classic. Its fragrant, herbaceous crust enhances the juicy meat, making it a dish that your guests will savor and remember fondly.

Greek-Style Lamb with Lemon and Oregano

Add Mediterranean flair to your holiday menu with Greek-style lamb marinated in lemon, oregano, and garlic. This dish pairs beautifully with tzatziki sauce and roasted potatoes, bringing bright and zesty flavors to your festive table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cubed
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, combine garlic, lemon zest and juice, oregano, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the lamb cubes in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lamb on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Serve: Garnish with additional fresh oregano and lemon wedges. Serve with tzatziki sauce and sides of your choice.

Greek-style lamb with lemon and oregano is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a holiday gathering. Its bright flavors and tender texture are a refreshing twist on traditional lamb recipes.

Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Pomegranate Glaze

For a festive twist, try spiced lamb meatballs glazed with tangy pomegranate syrup. These bite-sized delights are packed with aromatic spices, making them an excellent appetizer or main course for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup pomegranate molasses
• 2 tbsp honey
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine lamb, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and salt. Form into small meatballs.
2. Bake: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, heat pomegranate molasses and honey until slightly thickened.
4. Glaze the Meatballs: Toss the baked meatballs in the pomegranate glaze.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve as an appetizer or over rice as a main dish.

Spiced lamb meatballs with pomegranate glaze are a festive and flavorful addition to your holiday menu. Their sweet, tangy glaze and aromatic spices make them irresistible for guests of all ages.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!