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Ina Garten Lamb Rack Recipe

Ina Garten Lamb Rack recipe

Ina Garten’s Lamb Rack is a beautifully roasted rack of lamb, coated in a flavorful herb and garlic crust. The meat is seared to lock in juices, then roasted to perfection, resulting in a tender, juicy interior with a golden-brown crust. The combination of fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and Dijon mustard creates a rich and aromatic flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 or 2 racks of lamb (about 1 ½ to 2 pounds each), frenched
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crustier finish)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb Rack

  • Preheat the oven – Set to 450°F (230°C) for a high-heat roast.
  • Trim the lamb if needed – Ensure the bones are Frenched (cleaned of excess fat) or ask your butcher to prepare it for you.
  • Pat dry the lamb – Use paper towels to remove any excess moisture for better searing.

Sear the Lamb

  • Heat olive oil in a pan – Use a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the lamb – Place the rack fat-side down and sear for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat – Transfer to a plate to rest while preparing the herb mixture.

Make the Herb Crust

  • Mix the seasoning – In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  • Coat the lamb – Brush the lamb with the mustard mixture, ensuring an even layer.
  • Optional breadcrumb crust – If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and press onto the lamb for extra crunch.

Roast the Lamb

  • Place lamb in the oven – Arrange the racks bone-side down in the skillet or on a baking sheet.
  • Roast for 15-18 minutes – Until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, or 135°F (57°C) for medium.
  • Rest before slicing – Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into chops.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Slice into chops – Cut between the bones into individual lamb lollipops.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs – Sprinkle with additional rosemary or thyme before serving.