The aroma of roasted garlic and fresh herbs swirling through my kitchen brings back memories of family gatherings, where a beautifully cooked roast lamb was always the star of the show. This classic roast lamb with hasselback potatoes is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt tradition that transforms any dinner into a special occasion. What makes this dish shine is its incredible tenderness, paired with the crunch of perfectly crisp potatoes that cradle all the savory goodness. Plus, it’s gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can indulge! With simple preparation and delightful flavors, this comforting feast will leave your family asking for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your next gathering with a dish that truly celebrates home-cooked love?

Why is this roast lamb so special?

Tender, Juicy Meat: Each bite of lamb offers a delightful burst of flavor, enhanced by the aromatic garlic and herbs.
Crispy Hasselback Potatoes: Experience the perfect crunch alongside a fluffy interior, creating a delightful contrast with the succulent lamb.
Family-Friendly Feast: This dish brings everyone together, making it perfect for memorable gatherings and celebrations.
Gluten-Free Comfort: Everyone can enjoy this dish without worries, allowing guests to indulge freely.
Simple Yet Impressive: With straightforward preparation, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that looks gourmet without the fuss.
You might also love to serve this with a refreshing salad or some steamed veggies to round out the meal like in Lime Chicken Corn for a balanced delight!

Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes Ingredients

For the Lamb
• Lamb (1 leg, about 2kg) – Ensure lamb is at room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
• Garlic (2 bulbs) – Provides aromatic depth; can be substituted with shallots for a milder taste.
• Rosemary (15 sprigs) – Adds earthy notes; can replace with thyme if desired.
• Thyme (15 sprigs) – Contributes herbal freshness; can substitute with oregano.
• Lemon (juiced, from 1) – Adds brightness and acidity to the lamb; lime can be a substitute.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Olive oil (4 tbsp) – Enhances flavor and aids browning; use avocado oil for a different flavor.

For the Hasselback Potatoes
• Floury potatoes (1.7kg, unpeeled) – Create crispy outer layers when roasted; varieties like King Edward or Dutch cream work best.
• Bay leaves (14) – Infuse subtle flavor into the potatoes; omit if unavailable.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Leftover garlic and herbs – Use the remaining garlic and herbs after preparing the lamb for added flavor in the potatoes.

For the Dressing
• Green olive and herb dressing – Complements the dish beautifully; easily made with pitted green olives, parsley, and mint.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roast lamb with hasselback potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
Using a sharp knife, make 30 deep incisions in the leg of lamb, creating pockets for flavor. Insert slices of garlic and sprigs of rosemary and thyme into each slit, ensuring they reach deep within for maximum infusion. This step not only enhances the taste but also makes your roast lamb visually inviting.

Step 2: Season and Pre-Chill
Rub the entire surface of the lamb generously with olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season well with salt and pepper, ensuring an even layer coats the meat. Cover the lamb with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to let the flavors meld beautifully, enriching your roast lamb with incredible taste.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (fan-forced) or 210°C (conventional). This heating ensures a well-cooked roast lamb with a crisp exterior. While the oven warms up, gather your roasting equipment, including a sturdy roast pan that can fit both the lamb and potatoes comfortably.

Step 4: Prepare Potatoes
Slice the unpeeled floury potatoes in a hasselback style, making thin cuts without going all the way through. Place bay leaves into each slit of the potatoes, then toss them in a bowl with leftover garlic, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures each potato is bursting with flavor and has the perfect combination of crispy and fluffy textures.

Step 5: Roast
Place the marinated lamb in the center of the roasting pan, surrounded by the prepared hasselback potatoes. Roast in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours, basting the lamb with its juices every 30 minutes for even cooking and added moisture. You’ll know it’s nearly done when the lamb develops a golden-brown crust, tempting everyone with its aroma.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the roast lamb has reached desired doneness, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat. If necessary, return the potatoes to the oven for a final brisk roasting. Serve the succulent roast lamb with the crisp hasselback potatoes and a drizzle of your green olive and herb dressing for a delightful finish.

Make Ahead Options

These savory roast lamb with hasselback potatoes are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy days! You can season the lamb and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to let the flavors meld beautifully. For the potatoes, feel free to slice them hasselback-style and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to toss them with oil and seasonings right before roasting to maintain their incredible texture. When ready to cook, preheat the oven, place the lamb and potatoes together, and roast as directed. With these prep-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes

Breathe life into your dining table with these delightful accompaniments that will enhance every savory bite of your roast lamb.

Creamy Mint Sauce: A refreshing drizzle adds a vibrant burst of flavor, perfectly complementing the rich lamb and enhancing traditional notes.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh, vibrant crunch that balances the hearty lamb and potatoes.
Honey-Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully, adding a touch of warmth that pairs wonderfully with the savory lamb and enhances your plate’s color.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal root vegetables brings earthiness and a variety of textures, creating a wholesome side that complements the robust flavors.
Simple Arugula Salad: A light, zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal and cuts through the richness of the lamb.
Red Wine: Pour a glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or Shiraz, to elevate the dining experience and enhance the flavors.
Lemon Tart: A slice of zesty lemon tart for dessert can round off your meal with a refreshing cleanse to the palate, leaving your guests smiling and satisfied.
Crusty Bread: Serve warm crusty bread to soak up the delectable juices of the lamb and provide a comforting addition that everyone loves.

How to Store and Freeze Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover roast lamb and hasselback potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheating.

Freezer: If you’re looking to save leftovers longer, freeze the roast lamb in slices and the potatoes in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish later on.

Reheating: To reheat, place the roast lamb and hasselback potatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes. This helps to retain the flavors and texture of your cherished roast lamb with hasselback potatoes.

Expert Tips for Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes

Room Temperature Lamb: Let the lamb sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before roasting for even cooking and improved texture.
Flavorful Incisions: Make sure your incisions in the lamb are deep enough to hold slices of garlic and herb sprigs, allowing the flavors to penetrate fully.
Basting is Key: Baste the lamb every 30 minutes during roasting to keep it moist and enhance the savory flavor of your roast lamb with hasselback potatoes.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness—aim for 55°C for rare, 60°C for medium, and 70°C for well done to avoid overcooking.
Crispy Potatoes: Don’t overcrowd the baking pan with potatoes. This allows them to crisp up nicely and achieve that delightful texture without steaming.

Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes Variations

Feel free to get creative with this roast lamb and hasselback potatoes recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Pork Alternative: Swap the lamb for a pork leg for a slightly sweeter and equally succulent flavor. This twist can add a delightful variation to your dinner table.
Herb Swap: Use sage or marjoram instead of rosemary and thyme for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its own character, enriching the dish in surprising ways.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, alongside the potatoes for added nutrition and a splash of color. This creates a beautiful seasonal centerpiece!
Vegan Version: Try marinating a whole cauliflower with the same seasonings for a hearty plant-based option that still feels festive and delicious.
Added Heat: Introduce red pepper flakes or a touch of harissa to the olive oil drizzle for a spicy kick. This elevates the flavor and excites the taste buds!
Citrus Zing: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon to lend a different zest to the lamb. The bright flavor can enhance its inherent richness beautifully.
Stuffed Hasselback Potatoes: Add cheese or herbs in between the potato slices for a cheesy surprise! This variation turns a classic side into a dreamy, cheesy delight.
Garlic Lovers: Need more garlic? Consider making additional roasted garlic to serve alongside or mixing it into the dressing for a truly garlic-infused experience.

With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like the Beef Sandwich Roasted or the comforting Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup to complement your feast!

Roast Lamb with Hasselback Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best lamb for roasting?
Absolutely! When choosing lamb, look for a leg that has a vibrant pink color, a small amount of marbling, and a fresh scent. The meat should not have any dark spots or excessive fat. I recommend asking your butcher for a leg that’s bone-in for more flavor, or boneless if you prefer easier carving.

How should I store leftovers?
After your meal, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep roast lamb and hasselback potatoes in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent any lingering odors and maintain freshness.

Can I freeze leftover roast lamb and potatoes?
Very! To freeze leftover roast lamb and hasselback potatoes, slice the lamb and arrange it in an airtight freezer bag. For the potatoes, lay them flat in a separate bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What is the best way to reheat roast lamb and hasselback potatoes?
For the best results, reheat both the roast lamb and hasselback potatoes at 180°C in a preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. To retain moisture, cover them loosely with foil while they heat through. This method helps keep the lamb juicy and the potatoes crispy, just like the first time!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! This roast lamb with hasselback potatoes is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. However, keep in mind the use of specific dressings, like the green olive and herb dressing, as they might contain ingredients that some guests may be allergic to, such as olives. Always check with your guests for any food allergies beforehand.

What should I do if my lamb is overcooked?
If your roast lamb ends up overcooked, don’t fret! You can slice it thinly and serve it with a rich gravy or sauce to help add moisture back. The accompanying green olive and herb dressing can also elevate the dish and provide some needed juiciness. If you use this dressing, make sure to whip up an extra batch to drizzle over the lamb slices!