When it comes to cooking lamb, there’s nothing quite like the tender and flavorful results of a well-prepared lamb shoulder chop. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next special occasion, these 20 delicious lamb shoulder chop recipes have got you covered.
From classic pairings like garlic and rosemary to bold flavors like harissa and lemon, we’ve rounded up the best lamb shoulder chops recipes to try. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, fire up your grill or oven, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously satisfying lamb.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the full range of possibilities when it comes to cooking lamb shoulder chops. From grilled and roasted options to slow-cooked stews and braises, there’s a recipe here for every palate and preference. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of lamb shoulder chops!
Garlic Herb Grilled Lamb Shoulder Chops
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these aromatic lamb shoulder chops, perfectly grilled to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (1 1/2 pounds)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb shoulder chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb for 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Lamb Shoulder Chops
Savor the rich flavors of lamb with this aromatic roasted dish, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (1.5 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary and dried thyme.
3. Rub the lamb chops with olive oil, then sprinkle the rosemary-thyme mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Place the lamb chops on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for 4-6 lamb shoulder chops, depending on size and desired level of doneness.
Balsamic Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
This recipe elevates the classic lamb shoulder chop with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Harissa Lamb Shoulder Chops
Experience the bold flavors of North Africa with this spicy lamb shoulder chops recipe. Tender and flavorful, these chops are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together harissa paste, olive oil, honey, and lemon juice.
3. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the harissa mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Style Lamb Shoulder Chops
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this aromatic lamb shoulder chops recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb shoulder chops in a large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan. Brush the marinade evenly over both sides of the lamb.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness (145°F/63°C internal temperature).
5. Let lamb rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Mint and Lemon Marinated Lamb Shoulder Chops
A refreshing twist on traditional lamb dishes, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the cooling essence of mint to create a marinade that will elevate your lamb shoulder chops to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, mint leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lamb shoulder chops to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F).
5. Remove lamb from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook lamb to desired level of doneness, about 15-20 minutes per side.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Red Wine Braised Lamb Shoulder Chops
Richly flavored lamb shoulder chops are slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce to tender perfection. This hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 1/2 pounds)
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb chops for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return lamb chops to the pot and cover with a lid. Transfer to preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Curry Spiced Lamb Shoulder Chops
This recipe yields a flavorful and fall-apart tender lamb dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The curry spice blend adds a warm and inviting aroma to the lamb shoulder chops.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 2 tbsp plain yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of lamb shoulder chops with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over each chop.
4. Place the lamb shoulder chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Honey Mustard Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
Elevate your lamb game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the natural flavors of lamb with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic until smooth.
3. Brush the lamb shoulder chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each lamb chop.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb Shoulder Chops with Vegetables
Slow Cooker Lamb Shoulder Chops with Vegetables: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. With the convenience of slow cooking, you can come home to a tender and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb shoulder chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shoulder chops until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the lamb shoulder chops to the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic around the lamb.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Grilled Lamb Shoulder Chops with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your summer grilling game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Juicy lamb shoulder chops are paired with a tangy and herby Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush lamb chops with olive oil and season with the herb mixture on both sides.
4. Grill lamb chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix chimichurri sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve grilled lamb chops with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Tender lamb shoulder chops pair perfectly with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shoulder chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-18 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Lamb shoulder chops: 20-25 minutes
– Garlic mashed potatoes: 15-18 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lamb Shoulder Chops
This aromatic dish combines the rich flavors of lamb with the warm spices of Morocco, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Marinate lamb shoulder chops in a blend of spices and herbs, then slow-cook them to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add lamb shoulder chops to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove lamb from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking. Let it sit at room temperature.
5. Place lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic and lemon juice. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe brings together the tender taste of lamb, the pungency of roasted garlic, and the earthy aroma of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced roasted garlic (see note) and chopped rosemary.
3. Season the lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the lamb chops with olive oil.
5. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each lamb chop with the garlic-rosemary mixture, spreading it evenly.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
Note: To roast garlic, cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cloves are tender and mashed.
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Mint Pesto
Elevate your lamb dish with the freshness of mint and a zesty pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mint leaves, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of mint pesto on each lamb chop.
6. Top each lamb chop with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Lamb Shoulder Chops with Red Wine Reduction
This recipe showcases the rich flavor of lamb shoulder chops, seared to perfection and served with a bold red wine reduction. A perfect main course for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the lamb chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add red wine and beef broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until reduced by half.
6. Return the lamb chops to the skillet and spoon some of the reduction over each chop.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Lemon and Oregano
This recipe combines the rich flavor of lamb with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano, creating a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place lamb chops in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-oregano mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Grilled Vegetables
This recipe combines the rich flavor of lamb shoulder chops with a colorful medley of grilled vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying summer dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the lamb with olive oil.
4. Grill lamb for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill vegetables for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
7. Serve lamb shoulder chops with grilled vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Couscous and Herbs
This classic Moroccan-inspired dish combines the tender flavor of lamb shoulder chops with the nutty goodness of couscous, all infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley and cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of lamb shoulder chops.
4. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. While lamb is cooking, prepare couscous according to package instructions using boiling water.
6. Fluff couscous with fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs (parsley and cilantro).
7. Serve lamb shoulder chops atop couscous and garnish with additional herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Caramelized Onions
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of lamb with the sweetness of caramelized onions, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 30-40 minutes).
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb chops with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the lamb for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the lamb to the oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through to your liking.
5. Serve the lamb chops with the caramelized onions spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Summary
Discover the flavorful world of lamb shoulder chops with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic garlic herb grilled chops to bold and spicy harissa lamb, there’s something for every taste. Try rosemary and thyme roasted lamb, balsamic glazed lamb, or slow cooker lamb with vegetables. For a twist, try mint and lemon marinated lamb, red wine braised lamb, or curry spiced lamb. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to impress your dinner guests. Whether grilled, roasted, or slow-cooked, lamb shoulder chops are the perfect addition to any meal.
