Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops Recipe

Introduction

These juicy garlic butter lamb chops are a deliciously tender and flavorful dinner option that’s quick to prepare. Infused with garlic, rosemary, and a hint of lemon, they are perfect for a special meal or simply elevating weeknight dining.

Ingredients

• 8 rib lamb chops
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Step 1: Let the lamb chops sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: Pat the chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Step 4: Add the lamb chops in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary to the skillet.
6. Step 6: Baste the chops with the melted butter mixture for 1–2 minutes, spooning the garlicky butter over them.
7. Step 7: Cook the lamb until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare, then remove from the skillet.
8. Step 8: Tent the chops with foil and let them rest for 5–7 minutes to retain juices.
9. Step 9: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lamb just before serving to add brightness.

Tips & Variations

• For more smoky flavor, try using smoked sea salt instead of regular salt.
• Swap rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.
• If you prefer your lamb more done, cook to an internal temperature of 140°F for medium or 150°F for medium-well.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the meat. Avoid microwaving as it can make the lamb tough.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of lamb for this recipe?

Yes, loin or shoulder chops can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly due to thickness and fat content.

How do I know when the lamb is cooked to medium-rare?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 130°F. The meat should be warm with a pink center for medium-rare.

Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops Recipe

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4.6 from 68 reviews

This recipe for Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops features tender rib chops seared in a cast iron skillet, infused with fragrant garlic, rosemary, and a rich butter sauce. Perfectly cooked to medium-rare, these lamb chops are finished with fresh lemon juice to add a bright, zesty touch, making them a delicious and elegant option for any occasion.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 lamb chops, serves 4 people 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Lamb Chops

• 8 rib lamb chops

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garlic Butter Sauce

• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped

Finishing

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare Lamb Chops: Let the lamb chops sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking and then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season: Season both sides of the lamb chops evenly with salt, black pepper, and optionally red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
3. Heat Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and heat the olive oil until it shimmers, ensuring it is hot enough for searing.
4. Sear Lamb Chops: Add the lamb chops in a single layer to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
5. Reduce Heat and Add Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium, then add the butter, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary to the skillet.
6. Baste with Butter Sauce: Spoon the melted butter mixture over the lamb chops continuously for 1–2 minutes to infuse flavor and keep them moist.
7. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the lamb reaches 130°F for medium-rare doneness; adjust cooking time as needed.
8. Rest: Remove the lamb chops from the skillet, tent with foil, and let them rest for 5–7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
9. Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lamb chops just before serving to add brightness and enhance the flavors.

Notes

• Bringing the lamb chops to room temperature helps them cook evenly.
• Patting the meat dry is essential for a good sear.
• Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect medium-rare lamb.
• Resting the meat helps retain juiciness.
• Cast iron skillet is preferred for even heat distribution and a good sear.
• Adjust lemon quantity based on taste preference.

Keywords: lamb chops, garlic butter lamb, rosemary lamb chops, seared lamb, easy lamb recipe, Mediterranean lamb, rib chops, skillet lamb chops