Print

Perfect Roasted Leg of Lamb Recipe Easy Rosemary Garlic Rub Guide

roasted leg of lamb - featured image

A flavorful and easy-to-make roasted leg of lamb with a rosemary garlic rub that creates a crispy herb crust and tender, juicy meat. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting Sunday meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds leg of lamb, bone-in or boneless
  • 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the leg of lamb from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Using a sharp knife, gently score the fat cap in a crisscross pattern about 1/4 inch deep.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine rosemary, garlic, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix until pasty.
  4. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, pressing it into the scored fat and meat. Let the lamb marinate at room temperature for 20-30 minutes or refrigerate up to 4 hours.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  6. Place the lamb on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part, avoiding bone. Roast at 425°F for 15 minutes to sear.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, about 1 to 1.25 hours depending on size. For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove lamb from oven and tent loosely with foil. Rest for at least 15 minutes.
  9. Carve against the grain into 1/4 inch thick slices and serve immediately.

Notes

If garlic browns too fast during searing, loosely cover the roast with foil to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the meat rest after roasting to redistribute juices. If no roasting rack is available, place lamb on chopped onions or carrots as a natural rack.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted leg of lamb, rosemary garlic rub, easy lamb recipe, holiday roast, garlic lamb, herb crust lamb, gluten-free lamb recipe