Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These lamb chops require just a handful of ingredients and less than an hour from start to finish. The result is a flavorful, juicy main dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting guests or making a romantic dinner, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The oven does all the hard work, and you’re left with perfectly cooked, tender lamb that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
garlic cloves
olive oil
fresh rosemary or dried rosemary
salt
black pepper
lemon juice
lamb chops
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create a marinade.
- Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels.
- Rub the marinade all over the lamb chops and let them sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
- Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chops are browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the lamb chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Herb Blend: Swap rosemary with thyme, oregano, or a Mediterranean herb mix.
- Balsamic Flavor: Replace lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, tangy flavor.
- Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the lamb chops over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Garlic Butter Finish: Add a pat of garlic butter over the lamb chops just before serving for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
FAQs
How do I know when lamb chops are done?
Lamb chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I marinate the lamb chops overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavor. Just keep them covered in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before baking.
Do I need to sear the lamb chops before baking?
Searing adds a nice crust, but it’s not necessary. This recipe keeps things easy by using only the oven.
What should I serve with baked lamb chops?
Popular sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, couscous, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use boneless lamb chops?
Yes, boneless lamb chops work well too. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster.
Should I cover the lamb chops while baking?
No, baking uncovered helps achieve a nice caramelized exterior.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
How long should lamb chops rest after baking?
Let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
Is it okay to use dried rosemary?
Absolutely. Dried rosemary is a great substitute if you don’t have fresh. Use about half the amount.
Can I freeze cooked lamb chops?
Yes, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
These Easy Baked Lamb Chops are a fantastic go-to for a delicious and effortless meal. With just a few pantry staples and less than an hour of your time, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers every time.
PrintEasy Baked Lamb Chops
These Easy Baked Lamb Chops are tender, juicy, and full of savory flavor, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4–6 lamb chops
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create a marinade.
- Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels.
- Rub the marinade all over the lamb chops and let them sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
- Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chops are browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the lamb chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Marinate overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Use dried rosemary if fresh is unavailable—reduce quantity by half.
- Optional: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Can be grilled or cooked in an air fryer instead of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lamb chop
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
