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Home » RECIPE » Dinner » Lamb » Roasted Rack of Lamb

Roasted Rack of Lamb

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By: Shinee Published: 1/18/2023Updated: 1/18/2023

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A roasted rack of lamb infused with garlic and rosemary is an impressive and effortless main course! It’s quick and easy yet elegant enough for any holiday table.

Sliced roasted rack of lamb on a white platter.

Table of Contents

  • Why you’ll love this recipe:
  • Key Ingredient Notes:
  • How to make this recipe:
  • Tips for Success:
  • Storing Tips:
  • FAQs:
  • The Best Sides to Serve with Lamb
  • How to Roast a Perfect Rack of Lamb

Why you’ll love this recipe:

Roast rack of lamb is a mouth-dropping dish that’s super simple and surprisingly hands-off. I like to infuse the lamb with a simple rosemary and garlic marinade, then roast it until it reaches a juicy medium-rare.

We’ve made this roasted lamb rack on New Year’s Eve for the last four years! It’s succulent, fool-proof, and looks gorgeous in the center of the table.

It’s as simple as defrost, marinade, and roast. A simple combination of garlic, nutmeg, and cayenne complements the distinctive flavor of the lamb without overpowering it. This rack of lamb recipe is a MUST-TRY!

Sliced roasted rack of lamb with mashed potatoes.

Key Ingredient Notes:

  • Rack of lambs – For this recipe, you’ll need two rack of lambs. You can cut the recipe in half if you’re only cooking for two. Make sure they’re frenched, which means the extra fat, cartilage, and meat is removed from the bones. Also look for meat that is a pinkish red, as a dark red means it’s starting to age.
  • Spices – Salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne complement each other well and add a slight kick to the lamb.
  • Olive oil adds flavor, tenderizes the meat, and encourages browning in the oven!
  • Garlic – Minced garlic adds a nutty depth of flavor!
  • Rosemary – For a kiss of evergreen, citrus, and pine.
Roasted rack of lamb ingredients.

How to make this recipe:

1. Marinade the lamb racks

  • In a large Ziplock bag, mix the salt, spices, minced rosemary, garlic, and olive oil.
  • Place the lamb racks into the bag.
  • Squeeze out any excess air and seal the bag. Gently massage it so all the spices, garlic, and olive oil are evenly dispersed.
  • Marinade the lamb for at least one hour, or overnight.
Side by side images of marinating the lamb.

2. Roast the lamb racks

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, and place the racks on top.
  • Roast for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130 to 140 degrees for medium rare. Remember the temperature will continue to rise a bit once it’s out of the oven.
  • Broil for 2 to 3 minutes to char the outside. Don’t walk away, lest you forget about it and it burns!
  • Carefully remove it from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for at least 5 minutes and up to 15. Enjoy!
Side by side images of raw and roasted rack of lamb on a baking sheet.

Tips for Success:

  • If you’re serving guests, count at least 3 lamb chops per person, possibly 4. This recipe counts 4 chops as a serving since the racks are on the smaller side.
  • Roast rack of lamb is typically served rare or medium-rare with a bright reddish pink center. This way it’s juicy and tender inside. Remember the temperature will continue to rise as you pull it out of the oven.
  • Let the meat rest for at least five minutes before you slice it. The juices reabsorb back into the meat as it sits.
  • If the rack of lamb isn’t frenched, ask your butcher or even the attendant at the meat counter to french it for you.
  • Don’t overcook the lamb! For rare, cook until the internal temp reaches 125 degrees F, and for medium-rare, 135 degrees F.

Storing Tips:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can reheat them in the oven or in the microwave. If you plan to microwave them, be sure to do it until just warmed through. You don’t want to make the meat tough!
  • To reheat, place on a sheet pan with a small amount of broth or water, tent with foil, and cook in a 300 degree F oven until hot.

FAQs:

How many does one rack of lamb serve?

One rack of lamb has eight chops, which serves around 2 to 3 people. I like to count four chops per person so I know there will be plenty! If you plan to serve plenty of appetizers, you could count three chops per person.

Should you sear rack of lamb before roasting?

No, it’s not necessary and one extra step! For this method, you roast the lamb at a moderate temperature until it’s perfectly cooked, then broil the outside to caramelize it. There’s no need to dirty up a skillet.

What temperature do you roast a rack of lamb at?

First, roast the lamb at 375 degrees for a perfectly juicy center, then broil for a caramelized crust.

The Best Sides to Serve with Lamb

  • Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
  • Warm Quinoa Brussels Sprouts Salad
Sliced roasted rack of lamb on a white platter.

How to Roast a Perfect Rack of Lamb

Roasted rack of lamb infused with garlic and rosemary is an impressive and effortless main course! It's quick and easy, yet elegant enough for any holiday table.
5 from 11 votes
serves: 4 servings
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total : 1 hour 30 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 2 lbs frenched rack of lambs about 2 racks with about 8 ribs each, Note 1
  • 1 teaspoon table salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg Note 2
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Note 3
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 rosemary sprigs finely chopped
Note: I test all my recipes with both measurements for the most precise and accurate result!

Instructions

  • In a large Ziplock bag, mix the salt, spices, minced rosemary, garlic, and olive oil. 
  • Place the lamb racks into the bag. 
  • Squeeze out the air and zip the bag. Massage it slightly so that olive oil, garlic, and all other spices are evenly distributed.
  • Marinate the lamb for at least an hour, or overnight.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the lamb racks on a baking sheet lined with foil.
  • Roast for 20-30 minutes depending how you like it done. The internal temperature should reach at least 130-140°F for medium rare.
  • Broil for 2-3 minutes to add a little char before taking it out.
  • Cover with foil and rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Notes:

Note 1: Look for a rack of lamb that’s a pinkish red color. A dark red means the meat is starting to age and won’t be as tender. 
Note 2: Nutmeg loses its flavor quickly, that’s why I always grate a whole nutmeg right before using.
Note 3: Cayenne pepper adds a small kick to the crust. If you don’t like spicy, swap it with smoked paprika.
Storing Tips:
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– You can reheat them in the oven or in the microwave. If you plan to microwave them, be sure to do it until just warmed through. You don’t want to make the meat tough!
– To reheat, place on a sheet pan with a small amount of broth or water, tent with foil, and cook in a 300 degree oven until hot.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 687kcal (34%) Carbohydrates: 2g (1%) Protein: 24g (48%) Fat: 64g (98%) Saturated Fat: 26g (163%) Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g Monounsaturated Fat: 29g Cholesterol: 126mg (42%) Sodium: 675mg (29%) Potassium: 341mg (10%) Fiber: 1g (4%) Sugar: 1g (1%) Vitamin A: 109IU (2%) Vitamin C: 1mg (1%) Calcium: 35mg (4%) Iron: 2mg (11%)
* Disclaimer: All nutrition information are estimates only. Read full disclosure here.
Author: Shinee
Course:Main Course
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Sliced roasted rack of lamb on a white platter.
Did you make this?Show me your creation! Tag me @shineshka and hashtag it #sweetandsavorybyshinee!
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This recipe was originally published on January 28th, 2014.

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  1. Fran Moyer says

    Posted on 31 December 2022 at 5:05 pm

    I use Garam Masala, basil, salt and pepper, have never marinated it. Once I found Garam Masala it has been perfect. Only enhances the flavor of the lamb with the mediterranean spice. We are having iit tonight for New Years
    Eve! Happy New Year.

    Reply
  2. Morgan says

    Posted on 26 December 2021 at 4:13 pm

    5 stars
    Thank you for posting this! Have always seared then put in oven to finish. Lots of smoke the old way, not your way. Lamb came out perfect medium rare and was a hit for Christmas. Thanks again, happy New Year!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 27 December 2021 at 5:39 pm

      So happy to hear that, Morgan! Thank you for sharing your feedback!

      Reply
  3. Kathleen says

    Posted on 15 May 2021 at 11:10 pm

    20-30 minutes at 350? I don’t think so. My lamb was still baa-ing when it came out of the oven. Next time I’ll do 400′ for 40 mins minimum. Other wise, marinade was great.

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 16 May 2021 at 7:03 pm

      Hi, Kathleen. Thanks for the feedback. I’m glad you liked the marinade and you’ve found the perfect time and temp for your oven.

      Reply
  4. Renee says

    Posted on 2 January 2021 at 11:29 am

    5 stars
    I don’t care for lamb but my husband does. I made this for his New Year Day supper. He said it is the best!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 2 January 2021 at 2:47 pm

      Yay, so happy your husband enjoyed it. Thank you for your feedback, Renee!!

      Reply
  5. Jen says

    Posted on 25 February 2020 at 8:45 pm

    5 stars
    Loved this the first time. Thank you! My 3 1/2 year old loved it as well 🙂 Making for the second time tonight!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 26 February 2020 at 5:38 pm

      AWESOME! Thank you so much for your feedback, Jen!

      Reply
  6. Leslie Harrington says

    Posted on 7 July 2019 at 6:42 pm

    5 stars
    Made this tonight. Marinated overnight. It was delicious. Cooked it for about 40 minutes for medium and it was SO tender. Flavor was great. I made a Rosemary mustard sauce to go with it. We will def make it again.

    Reply
  7. Tasha says

    Posted on 17 June 2018 at 6:26 pm

    5 stars
    PERFECTION!! I made this for my husband for Father’s Day dinner. And he said verbatim, “this is a perfectly cooked rack of lamb”. He absolutely loved it!! Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 19 June 2018 at 6:14 am

      Yay, so happy you and your husband loved it!! Thank you for your feedback, Tasha!

      Reply
  8. Bernadette Batchelor says

    Posted on 1 April 2018 at 3:21 pm

    5 stars
    Awesome awesome awesome will definitely be making it again!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 2 April 2018 at 2:11 pm

      Yay, thank you for your feedback, Bernadette! Glad you enjoyed the lamp chops. 🙂

      Reply
  9. Janice says

    Posted on 26 February 2018 at 12:31 pm

    5 stars
    Two thumbs up! The herbs & seasonings complimented each other!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 26 February 2018 at 10:18 pm

      Yay, so glad you enjoyed it, Janice. Thank you for your feedback!

      Reply
  10. Josh says

    Posted on 30 January 2018 at 2:47 pm

    Looking forward to trying this! If I want to add a crust by searing before roasting, any additional instructions you’d recommend? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 1 February 2018 at 9:59 pm

      Hey, Josh. Do you mean you want to sear the roast before putting it in the oven? If so, I don’t recommend it. The whole point is to roast at low temp first and then sear at the end. I promise, you’ll get a great crust at the end.

      Reply
      • Josh says

        Posted on 22 February 2018 at 9:38 pm

        I followed your recommendation and did the roast + sear and it turned out AMAZING. My specs for a single rack: roast for 24 minutes at 375 + 4 minutes broil on high made for a perfect medium rare with an excellent crust.

        Thanks Shinee!

        Reply
        • Shinee says

          Posted on 24 February 2018 at 9:58 am

          Awesome! Thanks for your feedback, Josh!

  11. Heather says

    Posted on 12 January 2018 at 10:09 am

    5 stars
    Made this the other day for my hubs and I after the kiddies went to bed and it was Delicious! perfectly seasoned and super tender! definitely going to keep this recipe for future use. 🙂

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 20 January 2018 at 2:56 pm

      Hi, Heather. So happy to hear you and your husband enjoyed this recipe. Thank you for your feedback.

      Reply
  12. Firewolf1960 says

    Posted on 31 December 2017 at 9:08 am

    5 stars
    Delicious! I couldn’t find fresh rosemary so I just rubbed into the meat dried rosemary and it came out perfect. Cooked it for 30 minutes and it was right at 130F Everyone totally enjoyed it and will make it again. My first time making a rack of lamb. Thank you for the recipe!

    Reply
  13. Thomas K says

    Posted on 13 September 2017 at 3:51 pm

    Defrost?!?! Never, ever defrost.. That defeats the whole purpose of good food… 

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 13 September 2017 at 9:33 pm

      Hi, Thomas. So are you suggesting to cook it frozen?

      Reply
      • Thomas Kaarup says

        Posted on 14 September 2017 at 8:01 am

        🙂 No absolutely not 

        Things are just so much better when they’re fresh. We all know that. 

        You have so great produce in America and when cooking for as you say, a special occasion, we need to start of with the better alternative. 

        Go to a local butcher or a supermarket where they have fresh produce. The taste are so much better when the meat, the fibers, haven’t been frozen. 

        Reply
        • Shinee says

          Posted on 14 September 2017 at 11:26 am

          Oh, I see. Thanks for clarification, Thomas. 🙂 Unfortunately, some of us live in a rural area where you can’t always get the best fresh meat. And as we butcher our own beef, we have to freeze them to properly store the meat, and I have to say it’s totally fine.

  14. Cheegii says

    Posted on 3 February 2014 at 9:29 pm

    Sain uu Shinee yamar goy jor tavia ve nuhur ohin 2-too hiij ugnuu.bi urgelj chinii blogoor zochilj shine joriig chin dagaj hiih durtai.Ih bayarlalaa 🙂

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 3 February 2014 at 11:13 pm

      Sain, sain bn uu Cheegii! Minii blogoor zochilj bdagt mash ih bayarlalaa, mun minii joruud taalgdaj bgaad mash ih bayartai bn. Setgegdelee uldeesend bayarlalaa! 🙂

      Reply
  15. Ali @ Inspiralized says

    Posted on 29 January 2014 at 1:00 pm

    I just found your site through FoodGawker and I love this recipe! I’ve been looking for a good rack of lamb recipe and I’m so happy you popped up! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Shinee says

      Posted on 29 January 2014 at 10:55 pm

      Hi, Ali! I’m so glad you found what you were looking for on my blog! 🙂 I do love this recipe, so effortless, yet delicious. Good luck!

      Reply

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