Savory Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops Recipe (Print Version)
Make tender Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops with this easy recipe. Juicy lamb, cheesy ranch seasoning, and a quick pan-sear. So good!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free (check ranch seasoning)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
4 lamb loin chops (about 1-inch thick)
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Flavor Boosters
03 -
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
04 -
1 tsp garlic powder
05 -
½ tsp smoked paprika
06 -
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ The Cheesy Finish
07 -
½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
→ Garnish & Touch
08 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, pat those lamb chops super dry with paper towels. This is a non-negotiable step, honestly, for getting that amazing crust. Then, lightly rub them all over with a little olive oil. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Now, generously coat each chop with this flavorful mix. Don't be shy! This is where the magic for your Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops begins.
02 -
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (my cast iron is my ride-or-die here) over medium-high heat until it's really hot—a tiny drop of water should sizzle and disappear. Add a splash more olive oil if needed. Carefully place the seasoned lamb chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You want a good sear, so work in batches if you have to. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer them more done. This is where I always forget to open a window, oops!
03 -
Once your Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops are beautifully seared on both sides, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle that gorgeous grated sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top of each chop. You want a good blanket of cheese here! I sometimes get a little heavy-handed, but hey, it's cheddar ranch, right? Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of foil and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly.
04 -
This step is crucial, friends, don't skip it! Carefully remove the cheesy lamb chops from the skillet and transfer them to a cutting board or plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your lamb wonderfully tender and moist. I used to skip this and ended up with drier chops—never again!
05 -
Once rested, sprinkle your beautiful Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops with fresh chopped parsley, if you're feeling fancy. Honestly, it just makes them pop! I usually just grab a handful and roughly chop it. Serve immediately and watch them disappear. I just love how the vibrant green contrasts with the golden-brown lamb and melted cheese.
06 -
Take a moment to admire your handiwork. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble! Slice them up or serve them whole; it's your kitchen, your rules. Every bite of these Cheddar Ranch Lamb Chops is a little piece of comfort and flavor. Seriously, you've done good!
# Notes:
01 -
Always pat your lamb chops dry before seasoning; it's the secret to a great sear!
02 -
Reheating leftovers gently in a skillet prevents them from drying out—don't microwave!
03 -
Try this seasoning on thick-cut pork chops if you're out of lamb; it works, kinda!
04 -
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up beautifully.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Cast iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed pan)
02 -
tongs
03 -
cutting board
04 -
small mixing bowl
05 -
meat thermometer (optional)
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 5g
Protein: 38g