Name: Honey-Glazed Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488375H55M24S
Total time: PT-488375H55M24S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lamb shoulder (bone-in or boneless); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 tsp dried rosemary); 1/4 cup honey; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for rubbing

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Honey-glazed slow-roasted lamb shoulder is one of those meals I love making when I want to fill the kitchen with comforting aromas and end up with a show-stopping, melt-in-your-mouth dish. The slow roast allows the lamb to become incredibly tender, while the honey glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich, slightly sweet contrast to the savory meat and herbs. It’s a timeless recipe that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for its simplicity and depth of flavor. With just a few ingredients and some hands-off roasting time, I get incredibly juicy lamb with a crisp, golden exterior. The garlic and rosemary infuse the meat, while the honey creates a glossy glaze that balances beautifully with the richness of the lamb. It’s the kind of dish I can prep quickly and let the oven do all the work, making it ideal for relaxed entertaining or a comforting weekend meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lamb shoulder
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1/4 cup honey
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions

I preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
I rub the lamb shoulder generously with olive oil, then season it all over with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
I place the lamb in a roasting pan and drizzle the honey over the top, making sure it’s evenly coated.
I cover the pan tightly with foil and roast for 4 to 5 hours, until the meat is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
During the last 30 minutes, I remove the foil to let the honey glaze caramelize and the top brown beautifully.
I let the lamb rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing or shredding to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people, depending on the size of the lamb shoulder. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 4 to 5 hours to roast, plus a short resting time, making the total time roughly 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the honey for a slightly tangier glaze. I’ve also added thyme or oregano along with the rosemary for extra herbal depth. If I want more of a smoky finish, I sear the lamb shoulder in a hot pan before roasting it. And when I’m cooking for a crowd, I serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover lamb keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover the meat with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven until hot. I sometimes add a splash of broth or water to the pan to keep it moist. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless lamb shoulder?

Yes, I sometimes use a boneless shoulder for easier slicing. It may cook a little faster, so I keep an eye on it toward the end.

How do I know when the lamb is done?

I check if the meat pulls apart easily with a fork. It should be very tender and nearly falling off the bone.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, if I don’t have fresh rosemary, I use about 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary instead. The flavor is still great.

What should I serve with this?

I usually pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a warm grain salad. Crusty bread is great for soaking up the juices too.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, I often roast the lamb a day ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat gently before serving. It stays tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

Honey-glazed slow-roasted lamb shoulder is one of my favorite recipes when I want something that feels both comforting and luxurious. I love how the slow roast transforms a simple cut of meat into a fall-apart tender masterpiece, and the honey glaze gives it just the right touch of sweetness. It’s a beautiful dish to bring to the table—and even better to enjoy with the people I love.