Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

#### Step 1: Prepare the Leg of Lamb
Begin by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. While the oven is heating, prepare your **leg of lamb** by trimming off any excess fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.

In a small bowl, combine **minced garlic**, **olive oil**, **chopped rosemary**, **chopped thyme**, **lemon zest**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Rub this mixture all over the lamb, massaging it into the meat to ensure it’s evenly coated.

#### Step 2: Roast the Leg of Lamb
Place the seasoned leg of lamb on a roasting rack or in a roasting pan. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for **20 minutes** to develop a nice brown crust. After 20 minutes, reduce the temperature to **350°F (175°C)** and continue roasting for about **1.5 to 2 hours**, depending on the size of your lamb and your desired doneness.

For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of **135°F (57°C)**, and for medium, cook it to about **145°F (63°C)**. If you prefer your lamb more well-done, continue roasting and check the temperature accordingly.

Once the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for **10–15 minutes**. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

#### Step 3: Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
While the lamb is roasting, prepare the **mashed potatoes**. Start by peeling and cutting the **Yukon Gold potatoes** into uniform chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about **15–20 minutes** or until they are fork-tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the **butter**, **heavy cream**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. For an even creamier texture, use a hand mixer or stand mixer.

If you want to take your mashed potatoes to the next level, stir in the **minced garlic** for extra flavor and a touch of **Parmesan cheese** for richness.

#### Step 4: Make a Simple Sauce (Optional)
For an added layer of flavor, you can make a simple sauce to serve alongside the lamb. In the same roasting pan, pour in the **red wine** and **beef broth**, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes until it has reduced slightly and thickened into a sauce. Strain the sauce and drizzle it over the sliced lamb before serving.

#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the lamb has rested and the potatoes are ready, carve the lamb into slices. Serve it alongside the creamy mashed potatoes and pour the sauce over the lamb if you’ve made one. For a complete meal, you can pair this with your favorite vegetable side dish, such as roasted asparagus or green beans.

### Tips for the Perfect Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

– **Marinate the lamb**: For extra flavor, consider marinating the lamb overnight with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.

– **Use a meat thermometer**: To ensure your lamb is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature.

– **Make-ahead mashed potatoes**: If you’re short on time, you can make the mashed potatoes in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them before serving.

– **Add a twist to the potatoes**: For extra flavor, consider mixing in roasted garlic, sour cream, or chives into your mashed potatoes.

### Why You Should Make Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

**Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes** is a dish that feels both sophisticated and comforting. The lamb is tender and flavorful, while the creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect counterpart, adding a rich, velvety texture to the meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Not only does it taste incredible, but it also looks stunning when plated, making it ideal for dinner parties or family celebrations. It’s a meal that is guaranteed to satisfy and impress, combining the best of savory flavors and smooth, comforting textures.

So, the next time you’re looking to make a meal that’s both elegant and comforting, give **Leg of Lamb with Creamy Mashed Potatoes** a try. You won’t be disappointed!