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Lamb Shoulder Chops Recipe

This Easy Lamb Shoulder Chops Recipe (Tender Every Time)- is a simple and delicious recipe for garlic and rosemary-marinated lamb shoulder chops cooked in olive oil on a cast iron skillet until golden brown perfection. It's one of the best lamb recipes!

Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
40 mins
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Calories: 410 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 4 lamb shoulder chops
  • 3 cloves garlic cut in half
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ¼ cup olive oil plus more for cooking
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl or large ziplock bag, mix garlic, rosemary, thyme leaves, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Place the lamb shoulder chops in a shallow dish and coat them evenly with the marinade. Make sure to rub the marinade into the meat for optimal flavor.
  2. Marinate Time: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the lamb marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate for up to 24 hours.
  3. Preheat Cast Iron Skillet: Preheat your large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure it's well-heated before adding the lamb. If you are using a smaller pan cook in batches and don't over crowd. 
  4. Cook the Lamb Shoulder Chops: Remove the lamb from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Once the skillet is hot, add a generous amount of olive oil. Place the lamb shoulder chops in the skillet.
  5. Sear the Lamb: Sear the lamb shoulder chops for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired doneness.
  6. Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the lamb reaches your preferred level of doneness. Medium-rare typically has an internal temperature of about 130-135°F (54-57 °C).
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the lamb from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to be redistributed and ensures a juicy and tender result.
  8. Garnish and Enjoy: garnish with additional fresh herbs. Serve the lamb shoulder chops with your favorite side dishes. Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes work well with this dish.

Notes

  • Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality lamb shoulder chops for better flavor and tenderness. Look for cuts with some marbling, as this adds richness to the meat.
  • Marinating Time: Allow enough time for the lamb to marinate. The longer the marination, the more flavor the meat will absorb. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, marinate overnight for a more intense taste.
  • Room Temperature Lamb: Let the lamb come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures more even cooking and a juicier result.
  • Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet: Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-heated before adding the lamb. A hot skillet helps achieve a nice sear on the meat
  • Searing for Flavor: Sear the lamb shoulder chops on high heat initially to develop a flavorful crust. This step locks in juices and enhances the overall taste.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the lamb in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and hinder the development of a good sear.
  • Controlled Heat: After the initial sear, reduce the heat to medium-low to ensure the lamb cooks through evenly without burning. This allows the interior to reach the desired doneness.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: For precision, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lamb. Aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust based on your preferred level of doneness.

Nutrition Information

Calories 410kcal (21%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%) Protein 42g (84%) Fat 25g (38%) Saturated Fat 7g (35%) Polyunsaturated Fat 2g Monounsaturated Fat 15g Cholesterol 129mg (43%) Sodium 101mg (4%) Potassium 562mg (16%) Fiber 0.4g (2%) Sugar 0.02g (0%) Vitamin A 113IU (2%) Vitamin C 4mg (4%) Calcium 34mg (3%) Iron 4mg (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4-6 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 410

% Daily Value*

Calories 410kcal 21%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Protein 42g 84%
Fat 25g 38%
Saturated Fat 7g 35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g 12%
Monounsaturated Fat 15g 75%
Cholesterol 129mg 43%
Sodium 101mg 4%
Potassium 562mg 12%
Fiber 0.4g 2%
Sugar 0.02g 0%
Vitamin A 113IU 2%
Vitamin C 4mg 4%
Calcium 34mg 3%
Iron 4mg 22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.