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Perfect Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb Recipe Easy Dijon Mustard Crust Guide

herb-crusted rack of lamb - featured image

This herb-crusted rack of lamb features a golden Dijon mustard crust combined with fresh herbs, delivering a juicy, flavorful, and elegant dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 frenched rack of lamb (about 8 ribs, roughly 1.5 to 2 pounds / 680900 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, leaves stripped and chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 grams), can be substituted with gluten-free crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Let the rack of lamb sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Trim excess fat and silver skin with a sharp knife.
  2. In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, and panko breadcrumbs. Add salt and pepper. Mix to form a thick paste.
  3. Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the lamb fat-side down for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Remove skillet from heat. Brush the lamb with the mustard-herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust evenly.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F / 54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
  6. Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for at least 10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Slice between the ribs into individual chops and serve immediately.

Notes

Bring lamb to room temperature before cooking for even doneness. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. If the herb crust browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through roasting. Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free crumbs or almond meal for gluten-free diets. Fresh herbs are preferred but dried can be used at one-third the amount.

Nutrition

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