Lamb chops are a delicious, tender cut of meat that can easily become the star of your dinner table. Cooking them in a pan is one of the quickest and most flavorful ways to enjoy lamb. If you’re wondering how to cook lamb chops in a pan to get that perfect crust and juicy interior, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make restaurant-quality pan-seared lamb chops at home.
What You’ll Need
– Bone-in lamb chops (about 1-inch thick is ideal)
– Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Olive oil or vegetable oil
– Butter
– Fresh garlic cloves
– Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme
– A heavy skillet, preferably cast iron
– Tongs for flipping
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Lamb Chops in a Pan
1. Bring the Lamb Chops to Room Temperature
Before cooking, take your lamb chops out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents the meat from being cold in the center while the outside cooks too fast.
2. Season Generously
Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Then season both sides generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or brown sugar if you want a bit more flavor complexity.
3. Heat the Pan Properly
Place your cast iron or heavy skillet on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking. A hot pan is key to getting a beautiful sear on your chops.
4. Sear the Lamb Chops
Place the lamb chops in the pan without crowding them. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms. Then use tongs to flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Butter, Garlic, and Herbs
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and spoon the flavorful butter over the lamb chops continuously. This basting step adds richness and deep flavor to the meat.
6. Check for Doneness
Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chops for your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 120-125°F
– Medium-rare: 125-130°F
– Medium: 130-135°F
– Medium-well: 135-140°F
– Well-done: 140°F and above
Remember, the meat will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the pan, so you can take it off the heat a few degrees before your target temperature.
7. Rest the Lamb Chops
Transfer the lamb chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicy and tender when you cut into it.
Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Lamb Chops
– Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to ensure each chop gets a good sear.
– Use a heavy pan. Cast iron is best because it retains and distributes heat evenly.
– Keep it simple. Lamb chops have a naturally rich flavor, so basic seasoning and fresh herbs are often enough.
– Cook chilled or room temperature? Some cooks prefer cooking chops straight from the fridge to avoid overcooking, especially if the chops are thin.
– Sear the edges. If your chops have a fat strip, hold them with tongs and sear the edges for extra flavor and crispiness.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Add fennel seeds along with garlic and rosemary for a subtle anise flavor.
– Use smoked paprika and brown sugar in your rub for a sweet and smoky crust.
– Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lemon slices seared in the pan for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Pan-seared lamb chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides:
– Roasted or sautéed green beans
– Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
– A fresh pea and goat cheese salad
– Grilled vegetables or a simple couscous salad
Final Thoughts
Cooking lamb chops in a pan is a quick and rewarding way to enjoy this flavorful meat. With just a few simple steps-seasoning, searing, basting with butter and herbs, and resting-you can achieve a tender, juicy chop with a beautifully caramelized crust. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, pan-seared lamb chops are sure to impress.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked lamb chops!
Perfectly cooked lamb chops are just a pan away-simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Try this method and savor the juicy, tender results every time.