Follow this straightforward method to roast a tender, flavorful leg of lamb, perfect as a traditional main dish for any gathering.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:2 hr 15 min
Total Time:2 hr 35 min
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Roasting
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 (5-7 lb) bone-in leg of lamb
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Remove the leg of lamb from the refrigerator 2 hours before roasting to allow it to come closer to room temperature.
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Make small incisions all over the lamb using a sharp paring knife. Insert the sliced garlic pieces into these cuts.
In a small bowl, mix the chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Rub this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the lamb.
Place the lamb, fat side up, in a roasting pan.
Roast at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding the bone) registers 130 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, about 1.5 to 2 hours total cooking time depending on the weight.
Remove the roast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil.
Let the oven roasted lamb rest for 20 minutes before carving. This resting period is essential for a juicy result.
Notes
For easier cleanup, line your roasting pan with aluminum foil before adding the lamb.
If you prefer a more well-done roast, aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use dried rosemary if fresh is unavailable, but reduce the amount slightly.