Air Fryer Lamb Cutlets

Air Fryer Lamb Cutlets — Are you looking for a new and delicious way to enjoy lamb cutlets? How about giving air fryer lamb cutlets a try?

Air frying is an easy, healthy, and delicious way to cook your favorite proteins like chicken breast or patties – so why not give it a go with some lean, juicy, and intensely flavored New Zealand-sourced grass-fed burke Valley lamb cutlets?

They are cooked in record time with optimal texture and at high temperatures that lock in all flavors. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 6 simple ingredients (you likely already have in your kitchen), you’ll be able to whip up this low-maintenance meal in no time – ensuring weeknight dinners don’t need to feel like chores anymore!

What Are Lamb Cutlets?

A lamb cutlet, also known simply as a “cutlet,” is a small, bone-in portion of meat cut from the rib section of a lamb. It typically includes a section of the rib bone, a small piece of the ribeye muscle, and a layer of fat surrounding the meat. Lamb cutlets are prized for their tenderness, succulence, and flavorful meat. They are often considered a premium cut of lamb and are commonly used in various culinary preparations, including grilling, pan-searing, roasting, and broiling. Due to their small size, lamb cutlets are often served individually or in pairs, making them an elegant and delicious choice for a meal or as an appetizer. They can be seasoned with herbs and spices, marinated, or cooked with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

This recipe is perfect for a special occasion, an elegant meal, or a quick dinner. The taste of their air fryer lamb shoulder chops is fantastic, while the lamb cutlets are bursting with flavor the way to make this gourmet meal is in your air fryer. 

​Why Cook Lamb Cutlets In Air Fryer?

Cooking lamb cutlets in an air fryer offers several advantages:

• Quick Cooking: Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. This means you can have perfectly cooked lamb cutlets in a fraction of the time in a conventional oven or stovetop.
• Even Browning: The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures that the lamb cutlets are evenly browned on all sides, giving them a desirable crispy exterior.
• Healthier Option: Air frying requires less oil than traditional frying methods, making it healthier. You can enjoy the delicious flavor and texture of lamb cutlets with less oil and fewer calories.
• Less Mess: Air fryers are relatively easy to clean, reducing the mess and cleanup associated with stovetop cooking or grilling.
• Precise Temperature Control: Many air fryers allow you to set specific temperatures, ensuring precise cooking. This control is particularly useful when you want to achieve a specific level of doneness for your lamb cutlets.
• Versatile Seasoning: You can season lamb cutlets with your favorite herbs, spices, and marinades, and the air fryer will help infuse those flavors into the meat.

Overall, cooking lamb cutlets in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient method that retains the tenderness and flavor of the meat while providing a crispy exterior. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys delicious lamb cutlets with less hassle and healthier preparation.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lamb Cutlets

Take your taste buds on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean and make some delicious, succulent Air Fryer Lamb Cutlets. This simple recipe is full of flavor, featuring juicy, tender cutlets with garlicky potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs for an extra-special taste.

Best of all, you can whip this meal up in just a few minutes – perfect for busy weeknights! So, if you’re looking for an impressive dinner to impress family or friends, look no further than this flavorful air fryer lamb cutlets dish. Read on to find out what ingredients you’ll need and how to put them together step by step.

Remember the step-by-step directions below in the printable recipe card and the nutritional information at the bottom of the page.

• Lamb Cutlets: Select fresh lamb cutlets, which are usually bone-in and have tender and flavorful meat. You can adjust the quantity based on the number of servings you need.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to lightly coat the lamb cutlets before seasoning. It adds a touch of richness and helps the seasonings adhere.
• Seasonings: Customize the flavors with your choice of seasonings, such as minced garlic, dried rosemary, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings enhance the lamb’s natural taste.
• Lemon Juice (Optional): After cooking, a drizzle of fresh lemon juice can add a bright and zesty finish to your lamb cutlets.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): Garnish lamb cutlets with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint for added freshness and visual appeal.

These simple ingredients will help you prepare delicious and perfectly seasoned lamb cutlets in your air fryer. Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.​

How To Cook Lamb Cutlets In Air Fryer

Air frying lamb cutlets is a quick and convenient method that results in juicy and flavorful meat with a crispy exterior. Monitor the cooking time to achieve your preferred level of doneness, and enjoy your perfectly cooked lamb cutlets!

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the lamb cutlets cook evenly and have a nice sear.

Season the Lamb Cutlets: While the air fryer is preheating, season the lamb cutlets with your preferred seasonings. Typical seasonings include fresh garlic, lemon zest, onion powder, dried rosemary, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil to help the seasonings adhere.

Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned lamb cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Air Fry: Cook the lamb cutlets in the preheated air fryer. set cook time for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the cutlets and your desired level of doneness. Here’s a general guideline:

• For medium-rare: 7-8 minutes
• For medium: 10-12 minutes

Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the lamb cutlets from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Optional Lemon Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the lamb cutlets for a burst of citrus flavor.

Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, fresh rosemary, or mint, if desired, for a touch of freshness.

Pro Tips For The Best Lamb Cutlets

To achieve the best-tasting and perfectly cooked lamb cutlets in the air fryer, consider these pro tips:

• Choose Quality Lamb: Start with high-quality lamb cutlets. Look for fresh, well-trimmed cuts, that have a good amount of marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: For best results, always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This ensures that the lamb cutlets cook evenly and develop a nice sear on the outside.
• Season Generously: Lamb rib chips pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings. Don’t be shy with your seasonings. Use a mix of herbs and spices like minced garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the lamb marinate for a while to absorb the flavors.
• Use a Touch of Oil: While the lamb is naturally fatty, adding some olive oil or cooking spray can help achieve a crispy and evenly browned exterior.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in cooking times, so keep a close eye on your lamb cutlets. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium-well.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the lamb cutlets in a single layer with some space between them. Overcrowding can hinder proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flip the lamb cutlets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
• Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the lamb cutlets to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
• Experiment with Marinades: Consider marinating the lamb cutlets for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade. This can infuse even more flavor into the meat.
• Serve with Accompaniments: Lamb cutlets pair well with various side dishes and sauces. Consider serving them with a mint sauce, chimichurri, or a simple yogurt-based sauce. Accompany them with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality lamb cutlet dish in your air fryer. Enjoy the delicious flavors and tender texture of perfectly cooked lamb cutlets!

What to Serve With Lamb Cutlets

When preparing lamb cutlets, it is essential to consider what you will serve with them. Here are some suggestions for classic sides that pair perfectly with lamb cutlets:

• Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic accompaniment to lamb cutlets. Roasted or mashed potatoes are a great choice, as they help soak up the lamb meat’s flavorful juices.
• Vegetables: Vegetables are essential to any meal, especially when served with lamb cutlets. Roasted or grilled vegetables are a great choice, as they will pick up the flavors of the meat. Broccoli, green beans, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus are all delicious options for adding a healthy dose of color to your meal.
• Salad: A light and refreshing salad can help balance the lamb cutlets’ richness
• Bread: Bread is another classic accompaniment to lamb cutlets. Serve up some warm bread with butter alongside your meal.

Common Questions About Cooking Lamb Cutlets In Air Fryer

Can I cook frozen lamb cutlets in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen lamb cutlets in an air fryer. However, it’s recommended to thaw them in the refrigerator first before even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time if you cook them from frozen.

What temperature should I set the air fryer for lamb cutlets?

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for lamb cutlets. This high temperature helps create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

How long does it take to cook lamb cutlets in an air fryer?

Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the cutlets and your air fryer model. Generally, it takes about 8-12 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness. For well-done cutlets, you may need a few extra minutes.

Should I use oil when cooking lamb cutlets in the air fryer?

While lamb cutlets have natural fats, using a small amount of oil or cooking spray can help achieve a crispy and evenly browned exterior. It’s optional but recommended for better results.

How do I know if lamb cutlets are cooked to the desired doneness?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium-well. Remember that the temperature will continue to rise slightly during the resting period. The cook time will depend on the thickness of the lamb cutlet. 

Can I marinate lamb cutlets before air frying?

Absolutely! Marinating lamb cutlets can add extra flavor. You can marinate them for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade before cooking.

How do I prevent the lamb cutlets from drying out in the air fryer?

To prevent drying, use a meat thermometer to monitor the cooking process. Remove the lamb cutlets from the air fryer as soon as they reach your desired doneness and let them rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

What are some suggested side dishes to serve with air-fried lamb cutlets?

Lamb cutlets pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, couscous, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Mint sauce, chimichurri, or yogurt-based sauces are excellent accompaniments.

How To Store Leftover Lamb Cutlets

The best way to store leftovers is in an airtight container. Let them cool to room temperature, then be sure to place them in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cooking, and consume them within two days for optimal safety. Before storing, allow the cutlets to cool completely. When you’re ready to use them, ensure they have been heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

If you don’t plan to use the cutlets within two days, you can store them in the freezer for up to three months. To do this, wrap each cutlet tightly in plastic or aluminum foil and place them into a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label the package with the date of storage so that you can track how long they’ve been frozen.

How Do You Know When Lamb Cutlets Are Cooked

When cooking lamb cutlets, it is essential to ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly to remain safe and flavorful. The only accurate way to tell if a lamb cutlet is cooked all the way through is to use a meat thermometer. Lamb cutlets should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. 

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Pork Chops
• Easy Air Fryer Lamb Loin Chops
• Air Fryer Rack of Lamb