Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is an elegant and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The tender lamb is coated with a vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, then roasted to perfection. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a gourmet weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s create a showstopping lamb centerpiece!

Ingredients

• Rack of Lamb (2 racks, about 1 ½ lbs each)
  French-trimmed for presentation, with the meat cleaned from the bones.
• Fresh Breadcrumbs (1 cup)
  Adds crunch to the crust. Use freshly made breadcrumbs for the best texture.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  Adds bright, fresh flavor to the crust.
• Fresh Rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped)
  Earthy and aromatic, it pairs beautifully with lamb.
• Fresh Thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped)
  Complements the rosemary and adds herbal depth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  Infuses the crust with robust, savory flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons)
  Helps the herb mixture stick to the lamb and adds a tangy, sharp flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
  Helps bind the herb crust and adds richness.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning the lamb and the herb mixture.
• Optional Garnish: Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon)
  Adds a bright, citrusy note to the dish.

How to Make Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the lamb racks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb racks, fat side down, until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Herb Crust
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and lemon zest (if using). Stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Coat the Lamb
Brush the seared lamb racks generously with Dijon mustard, then press the herb mixture onto the mustard-coated surface, forming an even crust.

Step 5: Roast the Lamb
Place the lamb racks back in the skillet or transfer them to a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 125°F/51°C for medium-rare, 135°F/57°C for medium).

Step 6: Rest the Lamb
Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender, juicy result.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice the lamb between the ribs into individual chops. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Equipment Needed

• Large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan
• Small bowl for mixing the herb crust
• Tongs for handling the lamb
• Meat thermometer for checking doneness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the herb crust ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the herb mixture up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What’s the best way to make fresh breadcrumbs?
Use a food processor to pulse day-old bread into coarse crumbs. Avoid overly soft or fresh bread for better texture.

Do I have to use Dijon mustard?
Dijon is traditional, but you can substitute it with whole-grain mustard or even a light brush of olive oil to help the crust stick.

How do I know when the lamb is done?
A meat thermometer is the most reliable way. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F/51°C. The temperature will rise slightly as the lamb rests.

What sides pair well with herb-crusted lamb?
Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a light couscous salad complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
Sear the lamb in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a roasting pan to finish in the oven.

Conclusion

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is a stunning dish that’s easier to prepare than you might think. The tender meat, crisp herb crust, and aromatic flavors make it an unforgettable centerpiece for any meal. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy every bite!