If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that bursts with flavor and is surprisingly easy to prepare, look no further than these succulent Baked Lamb Shoulder Chops! This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to sun-soaked shores. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night in. Ready to tantalize your palate? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shoulder chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your lamb shoulder chops cook evenly and develop a nice, golden crust.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the lamb shoulder chops. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a good sear.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade for the lamb.
- Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each lamb shoulder chop. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, arrange the seasoned lamb shoulder chops in a single layer. Place the lemon slices on top of and around the chops for added flavor during cooking.
- Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Halfway through the cooking time, you can spoon some of the pan juices over the chops to keep them moist and enhance the flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the lamb shoulder chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
- Serve the baked lamb shoulder chops with the roasted lemon slices, and pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the lamb shoulder chops in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil before transferring them to the oven. This will create a beautiful crust and enhance the overall taste.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! While rosemary pairs wonderfully with lamb, thyme or oregano can also add a delightful twist to the marinade.
- Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting period after cooking. Allowing the lamb to rest for 5-10 minutes helps retain its juices, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chops. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired doneness—145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your baked lamb shoulder chops with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even couscous to create a well-rounded Mediterranean feast that will leave everyone wanting more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
