Keep it simple and let the natural flavour of the lamb shine through with this easy roast lamb rack recipe.

What you need to know before you start

You’ll need a frypan, a roasting pan and access to an oven to recreate this recipe at home. While not necessary, you may choose to French-trim your rack of lamb. This process involves using a small, sharp knife to clean the bones and remove fat and connective tissue between the racks. This does not alter the taste, but rather is done for presentation purposes. 

Why is this the best roast rack of lamb recipe?

Make this your go-to recipe when roasting a rack of lamb. It’s incredibly simple, with just two ingredients and a touch of salt and pepper, making it a great base to build from. Let the natural flavours of sweet and tender lamb shine, or dress it up, topped with a chilli sauce, coated in a herb crust or served on a bed of crispy potatoes. This simple method means you’ll achieve perfectly cooked lamb to your liking every single time.

What is a rack on a lamb?

A rack of lamb refers to the section of the ribcage of a lamb. A rack will commonly include 6-12 ribs, or can be sold in individual cutlets. Lamb rack is tender, flavourful and can often be one of the most expensive cuts on the animal. 

What ingredients you’ll need 

Lamb racks: Lamb is the hero protein for this recipe. We use 2-3 racks, which are browned on either side before being finished off in the oven.  

Rosemary sprigs: Rosemary infuses the lamb with a fragrant, woodsy aroma, imparting a fresh, herbal flavour that complements the richness of the meat.

How long do you cook a rack of lamb for?

Rack of lamb roasting time will depend on how you like your meat cooked. In a 220°C/200°C fan-forced oven, roast for 10 minutes for medium-cooked lamb or 12-15 minutes for well done. 

How to store leftover rack of lamb

Leftover lamb rack can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the lamb rack whole to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop. Lamb can easily become dry when reheating, so consider covering your lamb rack with foil to retain its moisture, or cook with a splash of stock. 

What to serve with rack of lamb

The beauty of this roasted rack of lamb recipe is you’re free to serve it with your favourite sides and sauces. Think classic pairings like mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables or even a cannellini puree. When it comes to sauces, a pomegranate glaze, mint sauce or a simple yoghurt tahini would all make great choices. 

Drink pairings for a roast rack of lamb

Roast lamb works well with light reds like a sangiovese and zesty white wines like a vermentino. Limoncello could also be a good option for adding a zesty finish. You can find more drink-pairing suggestions from drink experts Mike Bennie and Merrick Watts here. 

If you love our roast rack of lamb recipe, try this 

In the mood for lamb? Now that you’ve learnt how to roast a rack, experiment with these lamb recipes:

• Lamb and ajvar
• Spiced lamb with yoghurt and vegetable salad
• Lamb meatball biriyani