Juicy Apple Butter Lamb Chops: A Sweet & Savory Dinner (Print Version)

Juicy Apple Butter Lamb Chops bring sweet and savory flavors to your table. A comforting recipe perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: Gluten-Free (use certified GF broth/apple butter)

# Ingredients:

→ Lamb Chops & Marinade

01 - Lamb Loin Chops (4-6, about 1-inch thick)
02 - Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
03 - Salt (to taste)
04 - Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)

→ Apple Butter Glaze

05 - Apple Butter (1/2 cup)
06 - Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp)
07 - Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp)

→ Flavor Boosters

08 - Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
09 - Fresh Rosemary (1 sprig, finely chopped)
10 - Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1/4 cup)

→ Finishing Touches

11 - Fresh Thyme (1 tbsp, chopped, for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get those lamb chops ready. Take them out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes before you plan to cook them; this helps them cook more evenly. Pat them *really* dry with paper towels – this is crucial for a good sear, trust me, I've learned this the hard way! Then, generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy here; the seasoning really brings out the lamb's natural flavor. I always feel a little thrill when the kitchen starts smelling of fresh pepper.
02 - While your lamb is chilling, let's make the glaze for these Apple Butter Lamb Chops. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple butter, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chopped fresh rosemary. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined. This mixture smells absolutely divine even before it hits the heat! I always taste a tiny bit here to check the balance – sometimes I add an extra pinch of garlic if I'm feeling bold. This step is super quick, but it makes all the difference.
03 - Alright, time for some heat! Get a large skillet, preferably cast iron if you have one, over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get shimmering hot. Now, carefully place the seasoned lamb chops in the hot pan. Don't overcrowd the pan, hon, or they won't sear properly! Work in batches if you need to. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for a beautiful golden-brown crust and medium-rare doneness. You're looking for that gorgeous sizzle and a lovely caramelization. My kitchen always gets a bit smoky here, but it's worth it!
04 - Once your lamb chops have a nice sear on both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared apple butter glaze directly into the skillet with the lamb. Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pan as well. Let the glaze come to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – those are flavor bombs! The aroma in your kitchen right now should be incredible, a mix of sweet apple and savory lamb. This is where the magic truly happens for our Juicy Apple Butter Lamb Chops.
05 - Continue to cook the lamb chops in the simmering glaze, spooning the sauce over them occasionally. This helps the glaze thicken and coat the chops beautifully. You'll want to cook them for another 2-4 minutes, or until the lamb reaches your desired doneness (around 130-135°F for medium-rare, or 140-145°F for medium). I usually pull them off just shy of medium-rare because they'll cook a bit more as they rest. Don't overcook them, or they'll lose their juiciness!
06 - Once the lamb chops are cooked to your liking, transfer them to a plate or cutting board. Loosely tent them with foil and let them rest for 5-7 minutes. This resting period is super important; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. While they rest, you can give the sauce another quick simmer if it needs to thicken a bit more. Drizzle the remaining apple butter glaze over the rested lamb chops and sprinkle with fresh thyme for a pretty finish. Enjoy these amazing Apple Butter Lamb Chops!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the pan, hon! Lamb needs space to get that gorgeous sear.
02 - Leftovers are great, but the lamb is best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
03 - No apple butter? Apple sauce with a pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar works in a pinch!
04 - A sprinkle of fresh thyme at the end really brightens everything up.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet (cast iron preferred)
02 - small bowl
03 - whisk
04 - tongs
05 - meat thermometer (optional)

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450-550
Total Fat: 30-40g
Total Carbohydrate: 15-20g
Protein: 40-50g

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