Irresistible Easter Garlic Butter Lamb Leg Roast Recipe

Tender and succulent, this Easter garlic butter roasted leg of lamb brings Mediterranean magic right to your dinner table.

Herbs and spices dance together, creating an aromatic symphony that whispers of spring celebrations.

Soft garlic notes mingle with rosemary’s earthy embrace, promising a dish that feels both rustic and refined.

Mediterranean shepherds would marvel at this luxurious preparation that turns simple ingredients into culinary poetry.

Juicy meat falls apart with the gentlest touch, revealing layers of rich flavor beneath a golden, crispy exterior.

Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs become your secret weapons in crafting a meal that speaks directly to your soul.

You’ll want to gather everyone around, knowing this lamb will spark conversations and create memories that linger long after the last bite.

Pairing Suggestions for Roasted Leg of Lamb

• Choose a robust red Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah that complements the lamb's rich, garlic-roasted flavors with its deep, tannic structure and subtle pepper notes.
• Serve alongside creamy tzatziki, warm pita bread, and a fresh Greek salad to enhance the lamb's Mediterranean-inspired herb profile and provide delightful textural contrasts.
• Prepare roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes with similar rosemary and garlic seasonings to create a cohesive flavor landscape that echoes the lamb's aromatic preparation.

Proper Storage for Roasted Leg of Lamb

• Store leftover lamb in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying. Refrigerate for 3-4 days maximum.
• Slice lamb into portions, wrap individually in freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Preheat oven to 325F. Place lamb slices in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

• How do I know when the lamb is perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 135F (57C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone for the most accurate reading.

• Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance?

Yes, you can make the garlic butter mixture up to 2 days ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes before applying to the lamb.

• What's the best way to get a crispy exterior on the lamb?

Pat the lamb dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture and allows the meat to brown nicely. Roasting at a high initial temperature of 425F (220C) also helps create a delicious crispy crust.

What Makes Garlic Butter Roasted Leg of Lamb Special

• Impress Guests with Gourmet Flavor: The garlic butter and rosemary create a mouth-watering combination that transforms an ordinary lamb dish into a restaurant-quality masterpiece perfect for special gatherings.
• Master Foolproof Cooking Technique: Roasting the lamb is simple and straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy centerpiece that looks professionally prepared.
• Celebrate Seasonal Easter Tradition: This recipe brings a classic holiday meal to the table with a delicious twist, making it ideal for family celebrations and creating memorable dining experiences.
• Versatile Serving Options: The roasted lamb pairs beautifully with multiple side dishes like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, offering flexibility for different taste preferences and meal presentations.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Roasted Leg of Lamb

• Leg of Lamb: A tender and flavorful cut perfect for a special Easter meal.

• Garlic, Rosemary: These herbs provide a classic aromatic and savory profile to the lamb.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the meat's natural flavors.
• Lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy note to cut through the richness of the lamb.

• Butter: Creates a smooth, rich coating that helps the herbs adhere to the lamb and adds moisture during roasting.

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Roasted Leg of Lamb

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Blend

Create a fragrant herb-infused butter by mixing softened butter with finely minced garlic and freshly chopped rosemary. The combination will produce an aromatic paste that promises to elevate the lamb’s flavor profile.

Step 2: Season the Lamb

Generously coat the leg of lamb with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step ensures a deeply seasoned and flavorful exterior that will complement the rich garlic butter.

Step 3: Apply Garlic Butter Coating

Massage the prepared garlic butter mixture thoroughly over every surface of the lamb. Make sure to distribute the mixture evenly, allowing the herbs and garlic to penetrate the meat’s surface.

Step 4: Add Citrus Brightness

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lamb, which will help tenderize the meat and add a bright, zesty undertone to the overall flavor.

Step 5: Preheat and Position

Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Position the lamb on a roasting rack inside a baking pan to allow even heat circulation and prevent the meat from sitting in its own juices.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Cook the lamb for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for a perfect medium-rare doneness.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the lamb to rest for at least 15 minutes after removing from the oven.

This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a tender and succulent result. Slice and serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete Easter feast.

Tips for Roasted Leg of Lamb Success

• Blend fresh rosemary and thyme for an extra layer of aromatic flavor that complements the lamb's richness.
• Use a meat thermometer to achieve perfect doneness, avoiding overcooking and ensuring juicy, tender meat.
• Let the garlic butter mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before applying to help it spread more evenly and penetrate the meat.
• Covering the lamb with foil during resting helps redistribute juices, keeping the meat incredibly moist and flavorful.
• The lemon juice not only adds brightness but helps tenderize the meat, creating a more delicate texture.

Variations for Garlic Butter Roasted Leg of Lamb

• Mediterranean Herb Crusted Lamb: Replace rosemary with a blend of oregano, thyme, and mint for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Moroccan Style Lamb: Add ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a North African twist.
• Gluten-Free Herb Roasted Lamb: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with gluten-free sides like roasted sweet potatoes.
• Low-Carb Keto Lamb Roast: Skip roasted vegetables and pair with cauliflower mash to maintain a low-carbohydrate meal option.

Easter Garlic Butter Roasted Leg Of Lamb Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Succulent Easter Garlic Butter Roasted Leg of Lamb brings Mediterranean flavors to your holiday table with irresistible herb-infused richness. Roasted to golden perfection, this centerpiece delivers tender, juicy meat you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 bone-in leg of lamb

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 6 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Fats and Liquids:

• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons or 30 milliliters)

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Instructions

1. Calibrate oven temperature to a blazing 425F (220C), ensuring a perfectly heated cooking environment.
2. Craft a luxurious aromatic blend by thoroughly mixing softened butter with finely minced garlic and freshly chopped rosemary into a cohesive, fragrant paste.
3. Liberally coat the entire leg of lamb with robust seasoning of salt and freshly ground black pepper, massaging the spices deeply into the meat’s surface.
4. Generously spread the herb-infused garlic butter mixture across every crevice and surface of the lamb, creating a rich, flavorful protective coating.
5. Enhance the meat’s brightness by delicately drizzling fresh lemon juice over the prepared lamb, adding a subtle citrus undertone.
6. Position the seasoned lamb on a roasting rack within a deep pan, allowing even heat circulation and perfect browning.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature precisely reaches 135F (57C) for a perfect medium-rare texture.
8. After removing from oven, allow the lamb to rest undisturbed for a minimum of 15 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.
9. Slice against the grain and present alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete Easter feast.

Notes

• Choose a high-quality, fresh leg of lamb with marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Allow the lamb to reach room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent tough meat.
• Adjust cooking time based on the weight of your lamb, typically 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare doneness.
• Pat the lamb dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the garlic butter paste adhere better and create a crispy exterior.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 460 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg