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protein

Lamb Chops

Rib or loin, about 1″ thick

Quick Answer

Lamb Chops: roast at 425°F for about 15 min (after sear). Internal temp: 130°F rare · 140°F medium.

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Safe Internal Temp
130°F rare · 140°F medium

Cooking Methods

↕ Slide the temperature to see how cook times change

your temp
425°F
cook time
~15min (after sear)
Low & slow 375°450° Hot & fast
✎ Sear first, finish in oven.

Doneness Chart

DonenessTargetPull TempWhat to Expect
Rare130°F125°FCool red center, very tender
Medium-Rare135°F130°FWarm red center, yielding
Medium140°F135°FPink center, firmer
Medium-Well150°F145°FSlight pink, firm
Well-Done160°F155°FNo pink — lamb fat gets waxy, not recommended
Pull temp = when to remove from heat. Carryover cooking raises the temp 5–10°F as it rests.
Food Safety

USDA recommends lamb reach 145°F with a 3-minute rest for whole cuts. Like beef, lamb chops are whole-muscle cuts where bacteria only lives on the surface — searing kills it. Medium-rare (135°F) is the most popular doneness for lamb and is widely considered safe. Lamb fat solidifies and becomes waxy when overcooked, so don't go past medium.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tips for cooking lamb chops?
Lamb loves rosemary, garlic, and high heat. Rest 5 min.
What internal temperature should lamb chops reach?
USDA recommends lamb reach 145°F with a 3-minute rest for whole cuts. Like beef, lamb chops are whole-muscle cuts where bacteria only lives on the surface — searing kills it. Medium-rare (135°F) is the most popular doneness for lamb and is widely considered safe. Lamb fat solidifies and becomes waxy when overcooked, so don't go past medium.
What are the doneness temperatures for lamb chops?
Rare: 130°F (pull at 125°F). Medium-Rare: 135°F (pull at 130°F). Medium: 140°F (pull at 135°F). Medium-Well: 150°F (pull at 145°F). Well-Done: 160°F (pull at 155°F). Pull temp is when to remove from heat — carryover cooking raises the temp 5–10°F during rest.
How do you roast lamb chops?
Roast at 20–12 min (after sear). Sear first, finish in oven.
How do you grill lamb chops?
Grill at 4–5 min/side. Don't go past medium.
How do you broil lamb chops?
Broil at 4–5 min/side. Quick and intense.