Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, these Garlic Butter Lamb Chops are everything you want in a restaurant-quality dinner — made effortlessly in your own kitchen. With a golden-brown sear and a rich garlic-herb butter drizzle, this recipe brings luxury to your table without the fuss.

Perfect for a romantic dinner or an elegant weeknight treat, these lamb chops cook quickly in a skillet, creating a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the inside melt-in-your-mouth tender. The garlic butter sauce is the star, enhancing the natural richness of the lamb with savory, aromatic depth.

---

What Kind of Lamb Chops Should I Use?

For best results, opt for rib chops or loin chops. Rib chops are beautifully marbled and cook up tender and juicy with minimal effort. Loin chops are slightly thicker and meatier, great for hearty appetites. Whichever you choose, look for cuts that are evenly sized so they cook uniformly in the skillet.

---

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Lamb Chops: The star of the show. Choose fresh, high-quality chops for the best flavor and tenderness.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with deep, savory aroma and classic punch.

Butter: Use unsalted butter to create that golden, luscious sauce that coats each chop.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme): These herbs bring brightness and earthiness to the dish. Rosemary pairs especially well with lamb.

Olive Oil: Helps sear the chops to perfection while adding a fruity undertone.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that elevates the entire flavor profile.

---

How To Make the Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Step 1: Bring Lamb Chops to Room Temperature

Remove the lamb chops from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly and sear beautifully.

Step 2: Season Generously

Pat the chops dry with a paper towel. Then, season both sides with salt, black pepper, and a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Add olive oil to a heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, it’s hot enough to add the chops.

Step 4: Sear the Chops

Place the seasoned lamb chops into the skillet. Sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until they develop a rich, golden crust.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet along with minced garlic and fresh herbs. Stir and let everything infuse for about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Baste and Finish

Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted garlic-herb butter over the lamb chops for 1–2 minutes. This not only adds flavor but keeps the meat moist and glossy.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Transfer the lamb chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices and finishes the cooking.

---

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Garlic Butter Lamb Chops are best served hot, straight from the skillet with the pan sauce drizzled on top. Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light couscous salad for a balanced meal. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that garlic butter sauce.

To store leftovers, allow the chops to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep them moist.

Freezing isn’t ideal for cooked lamb chops as it can affect the texture, but it’s possible. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs will offer a more vibrant flavor.

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

No problem. Any heavy-bottomed skillet that retains heat well will work. Just ensure it gets hot enough for a good sear.

Can I marinate the lamb chops ahead of time?

Absolutely! A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice can add depth. Marinate for up to 4 hours in the fridge.

How do I know when lamb chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temp of 130°F (54°C). Let rest, and the temperature will rise slightly.

Is it okay to skip the butter for a lighter version?

You can swap butter with ghee or use only olive oil, but the rich flavor will be slightly toned down.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

You can sear the chops first and then finish them in a 400°F oven for 5–7 minutes if you prefer more control over doneness.

---

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into bold, satisfying dinners like these Garlic Butter Lamb Chops, you’ll love these flavorful recipes next:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a cozy, comforting skillet meal.
• One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta when you’re craving hearty pasta with a spicy kick.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a creamy, indulgent twist.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine if you want citrus brightness with creamy pasta.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood option with layers of bold, buttery flavor.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And don’t forget to drop a comment below sharing how it turned out for you! Did you go with rib or loin chops? Did you finish it on the stove or in the oven?

I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own. Questions are always welcome, too — let’s help each other cook with confidence.

More quick & delicious recipes? You can find daily inspiration and kitchen favorites on my Pinterest at Life with Nina.

---

Print