Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe

If you are looking to impress your family or guests with something truly spectacular yet wonderfully simple, this Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe is a total game changer. Featuring tender lamb rib chops enveloped in a vibrant, fragrant herb and Parmesan crust, this dish bakes to perfection, locking in juicy flavors while delivering a delightful crunch. It’s the kind of recipe that feels elegant but doesn’t require hours of fuss, making it perfect for a special weeknight dinner or a celebratory meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create an irresistible blend of flavors and textures, from the sharpness of fresh herbs to the comforting richness of Parmesan cheese. Each one plays its part in building layers of taste and color that make this dish stand out.

• 8 lamb rib chops (about 1 inch thick): Choose chops with good marbling for the best tenderness and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the herb crust bind perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy base that enhances the herb coating.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant punch and depth to the mustard mixture.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped): Offers a woody, aromatic note indispensable in lamb dishes.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (finely chopped): Adds a subtle earthiness that complements the rosemary beautifully.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Contributes a satisfying crunch and texture to the crust.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, salty element that rounds out the herb crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the meat perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat to balance the richness.

How to Make Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Season the Lamb

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat your lamb chops dry with paper towels — this small step ensures the herb crust will stick beautifully. Season both sides of each chop evenly with salt and black pepper to infuse the meat with basic seasoning that amplifies the natural lamb flavor.

Step 2: Make the Mustard and Garlic Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and the minced garlic until smooth. This mixture will act as a sticky, flavorful base that holds the herb crust firmly onto the lamb chops while adding a gentle heat and aromatic depth.

Step 3: Create the Herb Crust

Combine your chopped rosemary, thyme, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and olive oil in another bowl. Stir until you achieve a crumbly mixture that feels moist but still coarse—the key is that it clings well without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Coat Each Chop

Brush one side of each lamb chop generously with the mustard-garlic mixture. Then press that side into your herb crumb mixture, making sure the crust sticks well. Flip the chops and repeat the process on the other side, ensuring every bite will have that perfect herbaceous crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated lamb chops on a foil-lined baking sheet or a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting the time if you prefer a different doneness. The herb crust will turn golden and crisp while the lamb stays juicy inside.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Don’t skip this step! Let your lamb chops rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful, while the crust remains intact and deliciously crunchy.

How to Serve Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or thyme leaves make beautiful garnishes that add visual appeal and hint at the flavors within. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish further and pull all the flavors together.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts complement the hearty lamb perfectly. Creamy garlic mashed potatoes balance the herb crust’s crunch with silky smoothness, making for a classic, crowd-pleasing pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a creative spin, try serving the chops atop a bed of herbed couscous or alongside a fresh salad with citrus dressing to add brightness. You could also plate each chop with a dollop of minted yogurt sauce, giving a cool contrast to the warm, spiced crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The herb crust will soften slightly but the flavors remain robust, perfect for enjoying cold or reheated.

Freezing

This Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe freezes well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your lamb chops gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to warm thoroughly without drying out the meat or burning the crust. Avoid microwaving to keep the herb crust crispy and the meat tender.

FAQs

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary and thyme?

Absolutely! While rosemary and thyme are classic for lamb, you can experiment with herbs like oregano, sage, or parsley to create your own unique herb crust flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To keep this Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe gluten-free, simply swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options such as almond flour or gluten-free panko crumbs.

How do I know when the lamb chops are done?

Using a meat thermometer is the surest way: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium. Resting the chops after baking is essential to ensure juicy, perfectly cooked meat.

Can I sear the lamb chops before baking?

Yes! Quickly searing the lamb chops in a hot skillet for 2 minutes on each side before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and helps seal in the juices.

What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?

Pair the lamb chops with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A glass of full-bodied red wine complements the dish wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe is one of those dishes that’s as impressive as it is approachable. It captures the essence of why we love cooking at home: bold flavors, simple steps, and a result that feels special. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it for dinner parties or just a cozy meal that reminds you how delicious lamb can be.

Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe

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4.2 from 29 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops recipe features tender lamb rib chops coated with a flavorful blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, these chops offer a deliciously crispy herb crust that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes. Ideal for an elegant dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

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Ingredients

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Lamb Chops

• 8 lamb rib chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Herb Mustard Mixture

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herb Crust

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular; gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for a perfect crust on the lamb chops.
2. Prepare the Lamb Chops: Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
3. Make the Mustard-Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Prepare the Herb Crust: In another bowl, combine the fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix until crumbly and well blended.
5. Coat the Lamb Chops: Brush each lamb chop generously with the mustard-garlic mixture, then press the herb-breadcrumb mixture onto both sides of each chop, ensuring an even, thick coating.
6. Arrange for Baking: Place the coated lamb chops on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a cast iron skillet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes for medium-rare doneness, or longer if you prefer your lamb more well-done.
8. Rest Before Serving: Remove the lamb from the oven and let the chops rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite.

Notes

• For extra flavor and a crispy crust, sear the lamb chops in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side before baking.
• Serve the lamb chops alongside roasted vegetables or creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• The herb crust can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to use to save time on the day of cooking.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if preparing this recipe for a gluten-free diet.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean