Few things compare to the sizzle and aroma of tender lamb chops searing in garlicky butter, especially when they’re dressed up with fresh herbs and a hit of spice. These Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops deliver a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home, making any dinner feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re planning a date night or simply craving something savory and soul-satisfying, this recipe hits every note with rich flavor and a mouthwatering crust.

Pan-seared to golden perfection, these lamb chops are infused with a buttery garlic glaze that caramelizes around the edges and seeps into every bite. They’re bold, juicy, and layered with the warmth of rosemary, a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, and brightness from lemon. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make—even if you’re a first-timer with lamb.

What Cut of Lamb Chops Should I Use?

Lamb chops come in several cuts, but for this recipe, rib chops are ideal. They’re tender, flavorful, and cook quickly—perfect for a fast yet elegant meal. Look for chops with a nice marbling of fat and frenched bones for a presentation-worthy look. Loin chops can also work if that’s what you have, but rib chops offer that classic restaurant-style flair and juiciness.

Ingredients for the Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Lamb Chops – The star of the dish. Choose rib chops for tenderness and maximum flavor.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds depth and infuses the butter with rich, savory notes.

Unsalted Butter – The base for the glaze, butter enhances the richness and creates that luscious sear.

Olive Oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and gives the lamb a beautiful golden crust.

Fresh Rosemary – Its earthy, aromatic punch perfectly complements the gamey flavor of lamb.

Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but adds a subtle kick that balances the richness.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chops and enhancing natural flavors.

Lemon Wedges – A fresh squeeze right before serving cuts through the fat and brightens the dish.

How To Make the Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Step 1: Bring Lamb to Room Temperature

Before you begin cooking, let your lamb chops sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and better searing.

Step 2: Season Generously

Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. If you like heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes as well.

Step 3: Sear the Lamb Chops

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to shimmer. Place the lamb chops in the skillet (do not overcrowd) and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until a deep golden crust forms.

Step 4: Add Butter and Garlic

Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary sprigs to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the lamb chops repeatedly. This technique, known as basting, infuses the meat with flavor while keeping it moist.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once the internal temperature reaches about 130°F for medium-rare (use a meat thermometer for precision), remove the chops and place them on a plate. Tent with foil and rest for 5–7 minutes. This step locks in the juices.

Step 6: Serve with Lemon

Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top of the lamb chops to balance the richness and add a bright finish.

Serving and Storing Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops are best served hot off the skillet, with a generous spoonful of that fragrant garlic butter drizzled over the top. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a light salad to round out your plate. A glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah brings out the rich, savory tones of the lamb.

For leftovers, allow the lamb chops to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture. Freezing is not ideal as it can affect the texture, but it can be done in a pinch for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when lamb chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F. The meat will continue cooking slightly while it rests.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh rosemary?

Yes, but use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh rosemary gives a brighter flavor, though.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

Any heavy-bottomed skillet will work. Cast iron is preferred for its even heat retention and perfect sear, but stainless steel is a good alternative.

Can I marinate the lamb chops in advance?

Absolutely! A marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice works well. Just don’t over-marinate—1 to 2 hours is enough.

Do I have to rest the meat before serving?

Yes, letting the chops rest allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Skipping this step can result in dry lamb.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! With no breading and a focus on healthy fats and protein, it’s an excellent choice for low-carb or keto diets.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If these Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops made your taste buds sing, you’ll want to try more savory main courses from the blog. Here are some dinner ideas packed with bold flavor and easy prep:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a pasta night with serious comfort vibes.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes when you want rich flavor and convenience.
Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce if you’re craving seafood with a golden crust.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a meaty, cheesy pasta twist.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a hearty dinner that saves on dishes.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it whenever the craving strikes. Check out my Pinterest for daily recipes here.

Tried these Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops? I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you use rib chops or loin? Add a twist of spice or fresh thyme? Let’s swap tips and ideas in the comments!

Juicy Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Tender lamb chops pan-seared to golden perfection, basted with garlicky rosemary butter, and finished with a bright touch of lemon. This quick and luxurious dinner is bursting with savory flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

8 rib lamb chops

6 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Let the lamb chops sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Pat chops dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the lamb chops in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and rosemary.
Baste the chops with the melted butter mixture for 1–2 minutes.
Once internal temperature reaches 130°F (for medium-rare), remove from skillet.
Tent with foil and rest 5–7 minutes.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lamb just before serving.