Description
Lamb shoulder chops marinated in garlic and rosemary, then seared to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet. This simple recipe transforms an economical cut into something special.
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shoulder chops (also called lamb shoulder steaks)
- 3 cloves garlic, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ยผ cup olive oil, plus more for cooking
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a bowl or large ziplock bag, combine the halved garlic cloves, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to create your marinade.
2. Place the lamb shoulder chops in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, rubbing it into the meat with your hands to ensure even coverage. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the lamb from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking. Letting it come to room temperature ensures more even cooking throughout the chop.
4. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
5. Once the skillet is hot, add a generous amount of olive oil. Place the lamb chops in the skillet without overcrowding. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them.
6. Flip the chops and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. After searing both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the lamb reaches your desired doneness.
7. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135ยฐF. The chops will continue cooking slightly as they rest.
8. Remove the lamb from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
9. Garnish with additional fresh rosemary if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Marinate overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Do not skip bringing the meat to room temperature before cooking for even results.
A properly preheated cast iron skillet creates a beautiful golden crust.
Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming.
Fresh herbs provide more aromatic oils than dried, but dried will work in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 101mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 129mg