These juicy lamb shoulder chops are full of flavor and easy to cook. Searing them gives a nice crust, while a simple herb rub makes them taste amazing. Perfect for any dinner!
I love serving these chops with some roasted veggies—they make a colorful and tasty plate! Plus, you get to impress your friends or family without much fuss. Who doesn’t enjoy some delicious lamb? 🥩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lamb Shoulder Chops: These are the star of the dish, known for their rich flavor and tenderness. If lamb isn’t your thing, you can substitute with beef shoulder chops or pork chops for a different but still delicious option.
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor. You could use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil, but I like the taste of olive oil best here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic can be used, though fresh is always better. I always recommend the real deal for that truly vibrant flavor!
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds that perfect herbaceous note. If you can’t find fresh, dried rosemary is a decent substitute, but be sure to use less as it’s more concentrated in flavor!
Salt & Pepper: These are essential for seasoning. Feel free to use sea salt or kosher salt based on your preference. Fresh ground black pepper offers the best taste compared to pre-ground.
How Do I Properly Marinate Lamb Shoulder Chops?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into your lamb shoulder chops, and it’s simple! Here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the marinade generously over both sides of the lamb chops.
- For best flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or move to the fridge for up to 2 hours.
- Remember, the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be!
This step really enhances the dish, making every bite more enjoyable. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to Make Lamb Shoulder Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lamb shoulder chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for cooking. Plus, you can let the lamb marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor. In total, you can enjoy a savory meal in about 1 hour, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will give your lamb a flavorful kick!
2. Marinate the Lamb Chops:
Take the lamb shoulder chops and rub the marinade all over them, making sure they are well coated. Cover them with plastic wrap or place them in a zip-lock bag. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or if you have the time, refrigerate them for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Pan:
While your lamb is marinating, heat a cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You want it to get nice and hot for a perfect sear!
4. Sear the Chops:
Once the pan is hot, place the marinated lamb chops in the skillet. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they turn a lovely brown color. Resist the urge to move them around too much for a good crust!
5. Cook Through:
Flip the chops over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your preferred doneness.
6. Rest the Meat:
After cooking, take the lamb chops out of the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more tender and juicy!
7. Serve:
Garnish your lamb chops with some extra fresh rosemary for a beautiful presentation. Serve alongside lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your flavorful and succulent lamb shoulder chops!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Lamb for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While lamb shoulder chops are recommended for their flavor and tenderness, you can also use lamb loin chops or rib chops. Just adjust the cooking time, as loin and rib chops may cook faster than shoulder chops. Aim for around 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?
No problem! You can substitute dried rosemary if fresh isn’t available. Use about one teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way!
How Should I Store Leftover Lamb Chops?
Store any leftover lamb chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the lamb chops ahead of time! They can be marinated for up to 2 hours at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
