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Meta Description: Warm up with this traditional Lancashire Hotpot recipe! Tender lamb, onions, and potatoes baked in a rich broth, perfect for cozy dinners. Ready in 2 hours!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Cuisine: British, English
Category: Main Dish, Casserole

Craving a hearty, comforting meal? This Lancashire Hotpot Recipe is a classic British dish featuring tender lamb, savory onions, and golden, crispy potatoes baked in a rich broth. A staple of Northern England, this one-pot casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings. With optional carrots and parsnips, plus a touch of Worcestershire sauce, this easy recipe delivers authentic flavor with minimal fuss. Serve with pickled red cabbage for a true taste of Lancashire!

Why You’ll Love This Lancashire Hotpot

• Hearty & Comforting: A filling, warm dish ideal for cold days.
• Authentic British Classic: Brings the flavors of Northern England to your table.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add veggies like carrots or parsnips for extra heartiness.

Ingredients for Lancashire Hotpot

• 700 g (1 ½ lb) lamb shoulder or neck, cut into chunks – Tender, flavorful meat for the base.
• 2 medium onions, sliced – Adds sweet, savory depth.
• 2 carrots, sliced (optional) – Boosts color and nutrition.
• 2 parsnips, sliced (optional) – Enhances sweetness and texture.
• 2 tbsp plain flour – Thickens the broth and coats the lamb.
• 500 ml (2 cups) lamb or beef stock – Creates a rich, savory sauce.
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and tangy flavor.
• 2 bay leaves – Infuses aromatic warmth.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried) – Brings earthy, herbaceous notes.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Enhances all flavors.
• 3–4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (2–3 mm) – Forms the crispy, golden topping.
• 40 g (3 tbsp) butter, melted (or dripping) – Adds richness and crispiness to the potatoes.

How to Make Lancashire Hotpot

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F).
2. Toss lamb chunks in 2 tbsp plain flour, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
3. Heat a large pan with a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb until golden on all sides, then set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Hotpot

1. Grease a deep ovenproof casserole dish with butter or oil.
2. Arrange half the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.
3. Add the browned lamb, sliced onions, carrots, and parsnips (if using).
4. Season with salt, pepper, and add bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
5. Pour in 500 ml lamb or beef stock and 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
6. Top with the remaining potato slices, arranging them in a neat, overlapping circular pattern for a classic look.

Step 3: Butter and Cover

1. Brush the top layer of potatoes with melted butter (or dripping for authentic flavor).
2. Cover the casserole dish with a lid or foil to trap moisture.

Step 4: Bake Slowly

1. Bake covered for 1 ½ hours to tenderize the lamb and meld flavors.
2. Remove the lid or foil, brush the potatoes with more melted butter, and bake uncovered for an additional 45 minutes–1 hour until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs (if using fresh).
2. Serve piping hot with pickled red cabbage, beetroot, or crusty bread for a traditional British meal.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Hotpot: Swap lamb for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable stock.
• Beef Hotpot: Replace lamb with beef stew meat for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Hotpot: Sprinkle grated cheddar over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Herb Swap: Use rosemary instead of thyme for a bolder, aromatic twist.
• Root Veggie Boost: Add turnips or swede alongside carrots and parsnips for extra heartiness.

Tips for the Best Lancashire Hotpot

• Choose the Right Lamb: Lamb shoulder or neck ensures tender, flavorful results.
• Slice Potatoes Thinly: Use a mandoline for uniform 2–3 mm slices to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Authentic Touch: Use dripping (lamb or beef fat) instead of butter for traditional flavor.
• Prevent Drying Out: Ensure the stock covers the lamb and veggies to keep the dish moist during baking.
• Crispier Potatoes: Increase oven temperature to 190°C (375°F) for the last 15 minutes of uncovered baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Lancashire Hotpot pairs perfectly with:

• Pickled Red Cabbage or beetroot for a tangy, traditional side.
• Crusty Bread or dinner rolls to soak up the rich broth.
• Steamed Greens like peas or green beans for a balanced meal.
• A pint of British ale or a glass of red wine for a cozy dining experience.

How to Store Lancashire Hotpot

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 170°C (325°F) to maintain texture.
• Freeze: Freeze cooled hotpot in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Meal Prep: Assemble the hotpot (unbaked) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs About Lancashire Hotpot

What cut of lamb is best for Lancashire hotpot?
Lamb shoulder or neck is ideal for its tenderness and rich flavor when slow-cooked.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute lamb with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative and use vegetable stock.

Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Ensure thin, even slices (2–3 mm) and bake uncovered for the final 45 minutes. Brushing with butter or dripping helps achieve crispiness.

Can I prepare Lancashire hotpot in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is Lancashire hotpot gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure the stock and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free for a fully gluten-free dish.

Try This Lancashire Hotpot Recipe Today!

This Lancashire Hotpot is a timeless British comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with hearty flavors. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this lamb casserole will warm your heart and soul. Share your hotpot creations with us on social media using #LancashireHotpotRecipe!

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