This Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is a show-stopping dish that’s tender, flavorful, and absolutely elegant. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or romantic dinners, it features juicy lamb coated in a fragrant mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, roasted until golden brown on the outside and perfectly pink inside. This tried-and-tested recipe ensures a restaurant-quality meal that’s both impressive and easy to make.
📋 Ingredients
- 2 racks of lamb (about 1½ to 2 lb each), trimmed (Frenched)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
🍽️ Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Season the lamb: Pat the racks dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil, salt, and pepper all over the lamb.
- Sear: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the lamb for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the herb crust: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, rosemary, parsley, thyme, minced garlic, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.
- Brush with mustard: Brush Dijon mustard over the top and sides of the lamb.
- Coat: Press the herb-breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard-coated surface.
- Roast: Place the racks bone side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp 130–135°F / 55–57°C).
- Rest: Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into chops.
💡 Tips
- For a finer crust, pulse the herb mixture in a food processor before applying.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a mint yogurt sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, reheat gently in the oven.
🍴 Details
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Rest Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Serves: 4–6
Calories: ~380 per serving