When it comes to special occasions, few ingredients say “celebration” like lamb. And within that category, lamb shoulder chops are a standout choice. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they’re perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. But what really sets lamb shoulder chops apart is the incredible variety of flavors you can bring to them. From classic Mediterranean herbs to bold international spices, there’s an endless array of possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory lamb shoulder chops recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and leave your guests begging for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes have got you covered. So go ahead, fire up the grill or heat up the oven, and get ready to serve up a main course that’s truly fit for royalty.
Garlic and Herb Grilled Lamb Shoulder Chops
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of lamb with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a summer barbecue or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup 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 chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Rosemary and Red Wine Braised Lamb Shoulder Chops
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb with the boldness of red wine, all infused with the piney aroma of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds lamb shoulder chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb until browned on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Remove lamb from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return lamb to the pot, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the wine mixture. Add rosemary sprigs on top of the lamb.
7. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Shoulder Chops with Olives
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of lamb and Mediterranean spices, perfectly complemented by the brininess of olives. A simple yet impressive dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder chop (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves fresh oregano, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the lamb shoulder chop, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and top with sliced olives and chopped oregano.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shoulder Chops with Couscous
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this tender and aromatic lamb dish, served with a flavorful side of couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1.5 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Couscous, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Brown the lamb chops, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, lamb broth, browned lamb chops, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
7. Serve with couscous.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lemon and Thyme Marinated Lamb Shoulder Chops
Elevate your lamb dish with the bright flavors of lemon and thyme in this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these marinated lamb shoulder chops will impress with their tender texture and bold flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add lamb shoulder chops to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C). Remove lamb from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook lamb for 15-20 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
5. Let lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring tender lamb shoulder chops glazed with a rich balsamic reduction and served alongside a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, bell peppers, and red onion)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
5. Roast vegetables in a separate pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Brush lamb shoulder chops with the balsamic glaze and roast for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total.
Indian Spiced Lamb Shoulder Chops with Yogurt Sauce
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of India with this simple and aromatic recipe for lamb shoulder chops. The yogurt-based sauce adds a tangy and creamy touch, while the spices provide a warm and inviting aroma.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ghee or oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder chops.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the lamb is cooking, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and cilantro (if using).
6. Serve the roasted lamb shoulder chops with the yogurt sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Garlic Lamb Shoulder Chops
Elevate your lamb dish with this bold and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion. The combination of smoky paprika and garlic creates a rich, savory flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
4. Brush the garlic-paprika mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
Succulent lamb shoulder chops get a sweet and tangy twist with this simple yet impressive glaze, perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of the lamb chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Lamb Shoulder Chops with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this classic combination: tender lamb shoulder chops smothered in a tangy tzatziki sauce, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a staple of Greek cuisine, and its simplicity belies its rich, satisfying taste.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or pan-fry lamb chops until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix well.
5. Serve tzatziki sauce over grilled lamb chops.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Lamb Shoulder Chops with Mint Pesto
Elevate your lamb dish with a fragrant herb crust and creamy mint pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops, about 1 inch thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup mint pesto (see below for recipe)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your liking.
6. Serve with mint pesto spooned over the top and garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.
Mint Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Red Curry Coconut Lamb Shoulder Chops
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic and succulent lamb shoulder chop recipe, infused with the warmth of red curry paste and the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb chops and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, combine garlic, red curry paste, and 1 tablespoon of the coconut milk. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Transfer the lamb chops to the skillet with the curry mixture. Pour in the remaining coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Garlic Butter Lamb Shoulder Chops with Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender lamb shoulder chops smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, flour, and paprika.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper. Place the garlic butter mixture on top of each chop, spreading evenly.
4. Bake lamb chops in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Boil diced potatoes until tender. Drain excess water and mash with milk or heavy cream.
6. Serve lamb chops with mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
Elevate your lamb dishes with the sweet and tangy flavors of pomegranate molasses. This glaze adds a rich, fruity dimension to tender lamb shoulder chops.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops
– 1/2 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb shoulder chops in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the lamb.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– 40-50 minutes for medium-rare
– 50-60 minutes for medium
– 60-70 minutes for well-done
Spicy Harissa Lamb Shoulder Chops with Chickpeas
This North African-inspired dish combines the rich flavor of lamb with the bold, spicy kick of harissa and the creamy texture of chickpeas. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and harissa paste.
3. Season the lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the harissa mixture in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the lamb to a baking dish and add the chickpeas, onion, and garlic.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked through and the chickpeas are tender.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange and Ginger Glazed Lamb Shoulder Chops
Elevate your lamb dishes with this sweet and savory glaze, featuring the bright flavors of orange and ginger. This recipe yields tender and juicy lamb shoulder chops that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh orange zest, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and mustard.
3. Season the lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the glaze.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh orange zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Lamb Shoulder Chops with Coleslaw
Savor the flavors of a classic backyard BBQ with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender lamb shoulder chops with a refreshing coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 2 cups shredded cabbage
+ 1 cup shredded carrot
+ 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
+ 1/2 teaspoon sugar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush both sides of lamb shoulder chops with the mixture.
3. Grill lamb shoulder chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While lamb is cooking, prepare coleslaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
5. Once lamb is done, brush with BBQ sauce and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving with coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic and Rosemary Roasted Lamb Shoulder Chops
Roast lamb shoulder chops with a fragrant garlic and rosemary crust, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe yields tender, flavorful lamb chops with a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder chops
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb chops.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– 20-25 minutes for medium-rare
– 25-30 minutes for medium
– 30-35 minutes for medium-well
Summary
Elevate your special occasions with these mouth-watering lamb shoulder chops recipes. From classic garlic and herb to bold Mediterranean flavors, we’ve got you covered. Try rosemary and red wine braised lamb for a rich and savory dish or opt for the bright flavors of lemon and thyme marinated lamb. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy with harissa lamb or sweet with pomegranate molasses glaze, there’s a recipe to suit every taste. With over 18 options, you’ll never run out of ideas for impressing your guests.