Tender Oven Brown Sugar Lamb Chops: Simple Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Whip up tender Easy Brown Sugar Lamb Chops in the oven! This simple, flavorful recipe brings sweet and savory notes for a truly comforting weeknight dinner.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Dairy-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 4-6 Lamb Chops (Rib or Loin)
02 - 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark)

→ Flavor Boosters

03 - 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
04 - 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
06 - 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
07 - 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
08 - 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)

→ Pantry Staples

09 - 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (plus more for searing)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get those lamb chops ready. Pat them really, really dry with paper towels. Honestly, this step is so important for getting a good sear later. I used to skip this, and my chops would just steam instead of brown – a total oops moment! Trim any excessive fat, but leave a little for flavor. I usually just lay them out on a cutting board, seeing their beautiful marbling, ready for their flavor bath.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, black pepper, and olive oil. Give it a good whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved. You want a cohesive, slightly thick sauce. I sometimes taste a tiny bit at this stage, just to make sure the sweet-savory balance is there. It should smell wonderfully aromatic, a little tangy, and oh-so-promising!
03 - Place the dried lamb chops into the bowl with the marinade, or into a large zip-top bag. Make sure every single chop is coated well. Get in there with your hands if you need to! I usually let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, but honestly, an hour in the fridge is even better. I've even done it overnight when I'm feeling super organized – makes for truly tender Easy Brown Sugar Lamb Chops!
04 - When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup – seriously, don't skip this unless you love scrubbing! I always forget the foil, then regret it later. Give the marinade a quick stir again if it's been sitting, just to make sure everything is incorporated.
05 - This step is a game-changer for these Easy Brown Sugar Lamb Chops. Heat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is my fave here!) over medium-high heat with a little extra olive oil. Once hot, sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. You'll hear that satisfying sizzle and see a lovely crust forming. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if you need to. I always get a little excited at this stage, the smell is just incredible!
06 - Transfer the seared lamb chops (if using a skillet, just pop the whole thing in!) to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness and your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer, it’s your best friend here! When they come out, they’ll be glistening, tender, and smelling absolutely divine. Let them rest a few minutes before serving, that's crucial!

# Notes:

01 - Personal cooking tip: Don't skip patting the lamb dry for a better sear, it really makes a difference.
02 - Storage advice: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge, but avoid microwaving.
03 - Substitution suggestion: Balsamic vinegar can replace apple cider, but expect a richer, darker flavor.
04 - Serving tip: A side of creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complements the sweet and savory glaze.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Baking sheet
02 - large bowl
03 - whisk
04 - oven-safe skillet (optional)
05 - meat thermometer

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 350-450
Total Fat: 20-30g
Total Carbohydrate: 15-25g
Protein: 30-40g

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