Parmesan Crusted Lamb Chops

Parmesan Crusted Lamb Chops are a sophisticated yet simple dish, featuring tender lamb chops coated in a flavorful Parmesan and herb crust, then pan-seared to crispy perfection. This dish is ideal for special occasions, date nights, or when you want to elevate your home-cooked meals with restaurant-quality flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The Parmesan crust adds a crunchy, cheesy coating.
• Juicy and Tender: Lamb chops stay moist and flavorful inside.
• Elegant Yet Easy: A gourmet meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
• Quick Cooking: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holiday meals, romantic dinners, or a fancy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lamb Chops:

• 8 lamb rib chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for coating)

For the Parmesan Crust:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or Italian-style breadcrumbs)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, chopped)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help the crust bind)

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (optional, for extra aroma)

For Serving (Optional):

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables

Directions

1. Prepare the Lamb Chops

1. Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Brush each chop with a thin layer of Dijon mustard to help the crust adhere.

2. Make the Parmesan Crust

1. In a shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, thyme, smoked paprika, and olive oil.
2. Press each lamb chop firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.

3. Cook the Lamb Chops

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the smashed garlic and rosemary to infuse the oil.
3. Place the crusted lamb chops in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 2 minutes, basting with the melted butter for extra flavor.

4. Rest and Serve

1. Transfer lamb chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness.
2. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Enjoy with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: Add fresh basil, parsley, or rosemary to the crust for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
• Oven-Baked Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix shredded mozzarella or pecorino with the Parmesan for a richer crust.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded lamb chops for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the crust.

FAQs

What cut of lamb is best for this recipe?

Lamb rib chops or loin chops work best because they’re tender and cook quickly.

Can I bake these lamb chops instead of pan-frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the crust.

How do I know when my lamb is done?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:

• Rare: 125°F (52°C)
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Well-Done: 150°F+ (65°C+)

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes for Parmesan.

How do I prevent the crust from falling off?

Make sure to press the crust firmly onto the lamb, and let it rest for 5 minutes before flipping.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Bread the lamb chops ahead and refrigerate them for up to 6 hours before cooking.

What should I serve with Parmesan crusted lamb chops?

Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.

Can I use bone-in lamb chops?

Yes! Bone-in lamb chops add extra flavor and moisture.

Can I marinate the lamb before crusting?

Yes! A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice adds more depth to the meat.

What oil is best for frying?

Olive oil or avocado oil work best for achieving a crispy crust without burning.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Lamb Chops are a crispy, flavorful twist on a classic dish. With a golden, cheesy crust and juicy, tender lamb inside, this dish is perfect for an elegant dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! Try it today and impress your guests (or yourself) with this indulgent yet simple recipe.