Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish
Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish are an easy and flavorful dish made with American lamb shoulder!
***This post is in partnership with the American Lamb Board. As always, all opinions expressed are 100% my own.***
Tailgating.
Is there anything better than spending an afternoon in the sunshine eating delicious food while cheering on your favorite team?
When it comes to tailgating there are several food options to enjoy like barbecue ribs, steakhouse pizza, burgers, or chili. All are tasty and crowd pleasing. However, one recipe that will become a staple at your tailgating experience are these Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish.
Slow cooker meals are fantastic because you can make the meal ahead of time and simply reheat. Another bonus? Lamb shoulder turns tender and juicy when cooked low and slow. It’s definitely worth a home crowd cheer!
Ready to turn up heat and see how to make these Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish?
What’s in these Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish?
The key to making these lamb sliders, well, is the lamb. Let’s talk real quick about the cut of lamb you will need.
The lamb shoulder is a common cut of meat you can find at the grocery. It has a bit more marbling than a leg of lamb which means it’s ideal for the low and slow type of cooking. For this recipe you will need:
- 3lb boneless American lamb shoulder
- Garlic
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Red wine
- Chicken Stock
- Sweet Onion
- Red Bell Pepper
- Cilantro
- Lime Juice
Tips for Making Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish:
1. Lamb Shoulder. Make sure to bring your lamb to room temperature for at least 1 hour prior to cooking. This simple step will help bring out more flavors of the lamb and ensure cooking. To ensure the lamb shoulder is cooked you can check the internal temperature and it should be a minimum of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, let the lamb shoulder rest for three minute rest prior to shredding.
2. Searing the Lamb. The best way to add additional flavor to the lamb is to sear it in a hot skillet prior to placing it in the slow cooker. This will give the lamb a nice crust on top and seal in all the juices!
3. Relish. If you can make the relish a day ahead the flavors will have a chance to combine and become even sweeter.
Where did you source your American Lamb?
I found my American lamb shoulder at Whole Foods. Most butcher shops will carry lamb, but you might need to order ahead of time so be prepared. Be sure to ask for American Lamb and if you need help finding a source you can always contact the American Lamb Board.
Can I make these lamb sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these 2 days ahead of time. Simply reheat as needed.
What do you serve these sliders with?
So many options! I would serve these sliders with potato chips, fries, a charcuterie spread, or even a big salad!
Need Some Extra Incentive to Make these Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders?
Learn how making these lamb sliders could win you some incredible prizes. Check out the tailgating contest from the American Lamb Board on Instagram!
In Search of More Lamb Recipe Inspiration?
Make sure you visit: www.americanlamb.com
More Delicious Lamb Recipes to Enjoy:
- Grilled Steakhouse Lamb Pizza
- Sweet Potato Moroccan Lamb Bowls
- Ultimate Lamb Chili
- Grilled Citrus Butterfield Leg of Lamb
Slow Cooker Shredded Lamb Sliders with Pepper Relish
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Boneless American Lamb Shoulder
- 1 cup Sliced yellow onion
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup Red wine
- 2 cups Chicken stock
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Sliced sweet onion
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Granulated sugar
- 1 medium Red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp Fresh lime juice
- 12 Brioche slider buns
Instructions
- Place your lamb shoulder on a baking sheet. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least an hour.
- Preheat a large skillet to medium high heat. Season your lamb shoulder with salt and pepper. Sear the lamb on both sides until slightly golden brown for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, add the sliced yellow onion to the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Place the lamb shoulder on top of the onions. Next, deglaze the skillet with red wine and pour the drippings from the skillet over the lamb. Pour the chicken stock into the slow cooker. Cook the lamb on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. To ensure the lamb shoulder is cooked you can check the internal temperature and it should be a minimum of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, let the lamb shoulder rest for three minute rest prior to shredding.
- Meanwhile, prepare the relish. In a saucepan preheated to medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sweet onion and granulated sugar. Stir to combine and continue to cook for about 10 to 15minutes until nice and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- To serve, remove the lamb shoulder from the slow cooker and shred with a fork. Place some of the shredded lamb on a slider bun bottom. Top the lamb with relish and top with remaining bun. Repeat the process and enjoy!
