Air Fryer Rack of Lamb

This Air Fryer Rack of Lamb is juicy, tender, and beautifully crusted with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. Quick to prepare and air-fried to perfection, it’s a gourmet dish made effortlessly right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality lamb with minimal effort. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a flavorful crust. It’s faster than oven roasting, uses less oil, and requires almost no cleanup. Perfect for a special dinner or holiday meal, it’s elegant yet simple.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 to 2 pounds), frenched
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

directions

  1. Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat if needed.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and mustard (if using).
  3. Rub the herb mixture evenly over the lamb. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Place lamb rack in the air fryer basket, meat side up.
  6. Cook for 15–18 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 125°F–130°F). Flip halfway for even cooking.
  7. Remove and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 3 to 4
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 18 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Swap rosemary with oregano or mint for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Use a balsamic glaze instead of mustard for added tanginess.
  • Add a spice rub (like cumin and paprika) for a smoky flavor profile.
  • Serve with a mint yogurt sauce or red wine reduction for extra flair.

storage/reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the air fryer at 325°F for 5 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Avoid microwaving to preserve texture and juiciness.

FAQs

What is a frenched rack of lamb?

It’s a rack where the bones are cleaned of meat and fat for a more elegant presentation.

Can I marinate the lamb overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors beautifully.

What air fryer temperature is best for lamb?

390°F (200°C) provides a crisp crust while keeping the interior juicy.

How do I know when lamb is done?

Use a meat thermometer: 125°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium.

Can I cook it from frozen?

No, defrost completely for even cooking and proper seasoning absorption.

Should I preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and a proper sear.

What sides go well with lamb?

Roasted potatoes, green beans, couscous, or a fresh herb salad complement it well.

Can I double the recipe?

Only if your air fryer is large enough to hold two racks without overcrowding.

Is rack of lamb fatty?

It has a fat cap for flavor, but trimming excess fat helps control richness.

How do I slice the rack?

After resting, slice between the bones using a sharp carving knife.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Rack of Lamb is the ideal blend of ease and elegance. With bold herbs, a tender center, and a quick cook time, it’s a dish that elevates any dinner without fuss. Try it for your next special meal and enjoy gourmet flavor in a fraction of the time.

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Air Fryer Rack of Lamb

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A quick and flavorful air fryer rack of lamb, seasoned with herbs and garlic, delivering a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior in under 30 minutes.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 pounds), frenched
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using).
  3. Rub the mixture all over the rack of lamb.
  4. Place the lamb in the air fryer basket, fat side down.
  5. Cook for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6–8 minutes for medium-rare or until desired doneness.
  6. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  7. Slice between the bones and serve warm.

Notes

  • For best results, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
  • Letting the lamb rest ensures juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
  • Marinate ahead of time for deeper flavor.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 rack
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

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