Grilled lamb chops with herb butter has been my go-to recipe for a quick and impressive meal, especially when the weather calls for outdoor cooking. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle of lamb on a hot grill, and when you combine that with a vibrant, fresh herb butter, you get a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make.
I remember the first time I truly nailed grilled lamb chops. It was a chaotic family BBQ, and I was trying to impress everyone. The secret, I found, wasn’t in some fancy marinade, but in the quality of the lamb and a punchy herb butter applied right at the end. The melting butter infused with garlic, parsley, rosemary, and thyme creates an irresistible aroma and a burst of flavor that elevates every bite. It’s a dish that always gets rave reviews, and I can’t wait to share all my tips and tricks so you can achieve perfect results every time!
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
Making grilled lamb chops with herb butter transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. This recipe is a weeknight warrior that tastes like a weekend indulgence. You’ll adore it because:
- Incredible Flavor: The rich lamb pairs perfectly with the bright, aromatic herb butter.
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Elegant Simplicity: It looks and tastes impressive, making it ideal for entertaining without stress.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with almost any side dish, from a fresh salad to roasted vegetables.
The Allure of Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
The secret to these grilled lamb chops with herb butter lies in that luscious, melting dollop of flavorful butter. As it slowly melts over the hot, tender lamb, it infuses every crevice with a symphony of garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon. It’s a combination that’s both comforting and sophisticated, proving that sometimes the simplest dishes are truly the best.
Essential Equipment for Grilled Lamb Chops
To make these delicious grilled lamb chops with herb butter, you won’t need a professional kitchen setup, but a few key tools will make your life much easier. A sturdy set of grilling tongs is a must for turning the chops safely and efficiently. You’ll also want a reliable meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time without guessing. For the herb butter, a small mixing bowl and a fork or spoon are all you need.
Ingredients for Perfect Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
Creating these incredible grilled lamb chops with herb butter starts with having the right ingredients, prepared just so. Quality really shines through here, especially with the lamb and fresh herbs. Don’t skimp on freshness, it truly makes all the difference in the final flavor profile.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Grilled Lamb Chops
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering chops:
- 8 lamb loin chops, approximately 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced very fine
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
How to Make Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
Making grilled lamb chops with herb butter is surprisingly straightforward, and I’m going to walk you through each step to ensure you get perfectly tender, juicy chops every single time. The key is in the preparation and not rushing the process, especially when it comes to grilling and resting the meat. Trust me, a little patience goes a long way!
Preparing the Grilled Lamb Chops
First things first, let’s get those lamb chops ready for the grill. You’ll want to take your 1-inch thick lamb loin chops and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps create a beautiful sear and prevents steaming. Moisture on the surface means less browning, and we want that gorgeous, caramelized crust.
Once they’re dry, it’s time to season! Drizzle the chops with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Then, sprinkle them generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; lamb loves it! Rub it in gently to ensure every part of the chop is flavored. You can let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare your grill and the herb butter.
Crafting the Flavorful Herb Butter
Now for the star of the show, that incredible herb butter! In a small bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter. It needs to be truly soft, not melted, so it can easily incorporate all the other delicious ingredients. Add your finely chopped fresh parsley, rosemary, and thyme. The freshness of these herbs is what gives the butter its vibrant flavor and color.
Next, add the minced garlic and a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the richness of the lamb and butter. Use a fork to thoroughly mix all these ingredients together until they are well combined and you have a beautiful, aromatic compound butter. You can even make this ahead of time and keep it in the fridge; just remember to let it soften before using.
Grilling Your Lamb Chops to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get a good sear. Once the grill is ready, carefully place your seasoned lamb chops on the grates. For medium-rare perfection, you’ll want to grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side. If you prefer your lamb a little more done, you can grill them for an additional minute or two per side. Remember, cooking times can vary based on your grill and the exact thickness of your chops, so a meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Once they reach your desired doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare is my sweet spot), remove the chops from the grill and transfer them to a plate or cutting board. This next step is non-negotiable: let them rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy lamb. Right before serving, place a generous dollop of that glorious herb butter on top of each hot lamb chop. The butter will melt beautifully, coating the meat with its aromatic goodness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Grilling Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
Achieving perfectly grilled lamb chops with herb butter isn’t just about following the steps; it’s about understanding a few key principles that elevate your dish from good to unforgettable. These little tricks can make all the difference, ensuring tender, juicy lamb every single time.
Mastering Your Grilled Lamb Chops
For the juiciest results, always let your lamb chops come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling. This promotes even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each chop space for proper searing. If you have time, a quick 30-minute marinade in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and extra herbs before seasoning can deepen the flavor profile even more. Finally, a good meat thermometer is your best friend for checking doneness – aim for 130-135°F for a perfect medium-rare, remembering the temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests. And speaking of resting, don’t skip it! It’s crucial for keeping those juices locked in.
Serving and Storing Grilled Lamb Chops
Once your grilled lamb chops with herb butter are cooked to perfection, the next step is enjoying them! But don’t worry, if you happen to have any leftovers, I’ve got you covered on how to keep them delicious for another meal.
Creative Serving Ideas for Grilled Lamb Chops
These grilled lamb chops with herb butter are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary sides. I love serving them with a simple lemon-herb couscous or a fresh Greek salad for a Mediterranean flair. Roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes also make excellent companions, soaking up all those delicious juices and melted herb butter. For a stunning presentation, arrange the chops slightly overlapping on a platter and garnish with a few fresh herb sprigs.
Storing Leftover Grilled Lamb Chops
Should you be lucky enough to have any leftovers, store your cooked grilled lamb chops with herb butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently to retain moisture. A quick warm-up in a skillet over medium-low heat or a few minutes in a moderate oven (around 300°F) works best. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the lamb tough. If you have extra herb butter, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week and use it to elevate other dishes!
Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter: Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Grilled Lamb Chops
I get a lot of questions about grilling, especially when it comes to something as delicious as grilled lamb chops with herb butter. Here are some of the most common ones I hear from fellow home cooks:
How do I know when my lamb chops are done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare lamb chops, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, it’s 135-140°F. Remember, the temperature will rise a few degrees after you take them off the grill, so pull them just before your target.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the herb butter? While fresh herbs provide the best flavor and aroma for this herb butter, you can substitute with dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh). Just be aware the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I still make these lamb chops? Absolutely! You can pan-sear them in a cast-iron skillet or bake them in the oven. For pan-searing, follow the same cooking times, ensuring a good sear on both sides. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until desired doneness, flipping halfway through.
Can I prepare the herb butter in advance? Yes, the herb butter is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before dolloping it onto your hot grilled lamb chops.
Estimated Nutritional Information for Grilled Lamb Chops
Please note that the following nutritional information for these grilled lamb chops with herb butter is an estimate. Values can vary based on specific brands of ingredients, exact portion sizes, and preparation methods. For a serving of 2 chops, you can expect approximately: 450 Calories, 35g Total Fat (including 15g Saturated Fat), 30g Protein, and 2g Carbohydrates. This dish is also naturally gluten-free.
Share Your Grilled Lamb Chops Experience
I absolutely adore hearing from you all! If you try these grilled lamb chops with herb butter, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you love them as much as I do? What did you serve them with? Don’t forget to rate the recipe and tag me on social media with your delicious creations! Happy grilling! For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, you can check out RecipeTin Eats.
Print
Grilled Lamb Chops with Herb Butter
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled lamb chops with a flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients
- 8 lamb loin chops, 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels.
- Rub chops with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, parsley, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well to create the herb butter.
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
- Remove chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Top each lamb chop with a dollop of herb butter before serving.
Notes
- Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of the chops and your preferred level of doneness.
- For extra flavor, marinate the lamb chops for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Leftover herb butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chops
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
