Juicy, perfectly seared lamb chops infused with a fragrant garlic and rosemary butter, this dish is both elegant and simple. Whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day or just craving a flavorful, gourmet meal, these grilled lamb chops deliver a rich, buttery taste with a beautifully charred crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Juicy & Flavorful – The rosemary butter enhances the natural richness of the lamb.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 23 minutes, making it a great choice for special occasions.
- Perfectly Grilled – Achieves a crispy, smoky sear while keeping the inside tender.
- Customizable Doneness – Cook to medium-rare, medium, or well-done based on preference.
- Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled shrimp, or seasonal veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Lamb Chops:
- 8 lamb chops (frenched if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
For the Rosemary Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Serving (Optional):
- Mashed potatoes
- Grilled shrimp
- Green beans
- Corn on the cob
Directions
1. Prepare the Lamb Chops
- Pat the lamb chops dry with a paper towel.
- Rub with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Let marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Make the Rosemary Butter
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Set aside for basting and drizzling.
3. Grill the Lamb Chops
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
- Grill the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer for desired doneness.
- Brush with the rosemary butter in the last minute of grilling.
4. Rest & Serve
- Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
- Drizzle with extra rosemary butter and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Lamb Chops – Add ½ teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne to the seasoning.
- Garlic Herb Butter – Mix thyme and oregano into the butter for extra flavor.
- Lemon & Herb Lamb Chops – Increase the lemon juice and add zested lemon peel.
- Pan-Seared Version – Cook in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for the same seared effect.
- Mint Sauce Pairing – Serve with a homemade mint sauce for a classic touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover lamb chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Stovetop: Sear in a pan over low heat with a little butter.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, covered to retain moisture.
FAQs
How do I know when the lamb is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (65°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh rosemary provides a more vibrant flavor. Use ½ teaspoon dried rosemary if substituting.
Can I cook these lamb chops on a stovetop?
Yes! Use a cast-iron skillet and cook over medium-high heat for the same seared effect.
What’s the best way to marinate lamb chops?
Let them sit in the seasoning for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Can I use butterflied lamb instead?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Adjust grilling time based on thickness.
What sides pair well with grilled lamb chops?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, couscous, or a fresh salad.
Can I use a gas or charcoal grill?
Both work! Charcoal grills add smokier flavor, while gas grills provide even heat.
How do I keep lamb chops from drying out?
Do not overcook and let them rest after grilling to lock in moisture.
Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
Yes, but butter adds richness and enhances the rosemary-garlic flavor.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low-carb and perfect for a keto diet.
Conclusion
These Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary Butter are an easy yet impressive dish, perfect for Father’s Day or any special occasion. With their juicy, perfectly seared crust and flavorful garlic-rosemary butter, these chops are guaranteed to impress. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
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Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary Butter
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, perfectly seared lamb chops infused with garlic and rosemary butter—an elegant yet simple dish, perfect for Father’s Day!
Ingredients
For the Lamb Chops:
- 8 lamb chops (frenched if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
For the Rosemary Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Serving (Optional):
- Mashed potatoes
- Grilled shrimp
- Green beans
- Corn on the cob
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lamb Chops:
- Pat the lamb chops dry and rub with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Let marinate for 15 minutes.
-
Make the Rosemary Butter:
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside.
-
Grill the Lamb Chops:
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
- Grill the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
- Brush with rosemary butter in the last minute of cooking.
-
Rest & Serve:
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Drizzle with extra rosemary butter and serve hot with mashed potatoes, grilled shrimp, or veggies.
Notes
- For oven cooking, sear the lamb chops in a pan for 2 minutes per side, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Letting the meat rest before slicing ensures juiciness.
- Pair with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for an elevated dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American