Air Fryer Rack of Lamb with Roasted Garlic Aioli

If you want a dinner that feels special but is still simple to make, this Air Fryer Rack of Lamb with Roasted Garlic Aioli is perfect. The lamb turns golden on the outside and tender inside. The garlic aioli is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. You get a crisp crust and juicy meat without turning on the oven. It is one of those easy lamb recipes you will want to save for later. This recipe is great for holidays, date nights, or anytime you want a beautiful plate of lamb dishes without stress.

Ingredients

• 1 rack of lamb, about 1.5 to 2 pounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For the Roasted Garlic Aioli

• 1 whole garlic bulb
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Step by Step Instructions

1. Cut the top off the garlic bulb. Drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in foil and air fry at 350 F for 20 minutes until soft and golden.
2. Let the garlic cool. Squeeze the soft cloves into a bowl. Mash with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt. Set aside in the fridge.
3. Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better.
4. Rub the lamb with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Coat all sides well.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 380 F for 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Place the rack of lamb in the basket with the fat side up. Air fry at 380 F for 15 to 18 minutes for medium rare.
7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 130 F for medium rare or 140 F for medium.
8. Remove the lamb and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
9. Slice between the bones to create lamb chops. Serve warm with the roasted garlic aioli on the side.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Skipping the rest time: If you cut the lamb too soon, the juices will run out and the meat can turn dry.
• Not drying the lamb: Moisture on the surface prevents a crispy crust.
• Overcooking: Lamb cooks fast in the air fryer. Always check with a thermometer.
• Crowding the basket: Air needs to move around the meat for even cooking.

Tips For Success

• Bring the lamb to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking.
• Use fresh herbs if you have them. They add bright flavor.
• If you love bold flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
• This recipe also works well for lamb chop dinner ideas when you cook individual chops instead of a full rack.

How To Serve

This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, a simple salad, or warm pita bread. The creamy garlic aioli adds a smooth texture that balances the rich meat. For a Mediterranean style plate, serve it with a side similar to this lamb souvlaki recipe or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad.

If you enjoy Greek lamb recipes, you can also try this flavorful Greek butterflied lamb leg recipe for a larger gathering. Both are beautiful lamb meals for special days.

Flavor Add In Ideas

• Add lemon zest to the herb rub for a bright finish.
• Mix chopped parsley into the aioli for color and freshness.
• Brush the lamb with a little honey in the last 2 minutes for a light sweet glaze.
• Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for texture.

Air Fryer Rack of Lamb with Roasted Garlic Aioli

This air fryer rack of lamb is crisp on the outside and juicy inside. It cooks fast and feels fancy but is easy to make. The creamy roasted garlic aioli adds rich flavor to every bite. Perfect for holidays, date nights, or a special dinner at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Rack of Lamb

• 1 rack of lamb about 1.5 to 2 pounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Roasted Garlic Aioli

• 1 whole garlic bulb
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch salt

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Meat Thermometer

Method

 

1. Cut the top off the garlic bulb. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and air fry at 350 F for 20 minutes until soft and golden.
2. Let the garlic cool. Squeeze the soft cloves into a bowl and mash with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the lamb with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and Dijon mustard, coating all sides evenly.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 380 F for 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Place the rack of lamb in the basket fat side up. Air fry at 380 F for 15 to 18 minutes for medium rare.
7. Check the internal temperature. Aim for 130 F for medium rare or 140 F for medium.
8. Remove the lamb and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve warm with roasted garlic aioli on the side.

Notes

Bring the lamb to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for best results. Do not skip the resting time after air frying to keep the meat juicy. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the air fryer.

Make Ahead And Storage

You can prepare the roasted garlic aioli one day ahead. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge. The flavor gets even better the next day.

Leftover lamb can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Slice it thin and use it in wraps, salads, or grain bowls. If you enjoy other lamb dishes, you might also like this tender pulled lamb recipe for easy meals during the week.

To reheat, place slices in the air fryer at 350 F for 3 to 4 minutes. Do not overheat or the meat can dry out.

More Lamb Inspiration

If you are exploring more easy lamb recipes, there are many ways to enjoy this rich meat. From classic Greek lamb recipes to cozy stews, lamb is very versatile. For comfort food, try this hearty easy lamb stew recipe. It is perfect for colder days.

If you like simple lamb chop dinner ideas, you may also enjoy these juicy classic Greek lamb chops. They are quick and full of flavor.

Many people also search for ground lamb recipes easy enough for busy nights. While this rack of lamb is elegant, you can use similar herbs and spices in ground lamb recipes for dinner like meatballs or patties. Lamb stew meat recipes and even lamb breast recipes are great options when you want something different. Some cooks even compare flavors in goat recipes, but lamb stays tender and mild, which makes it perfect for home cooking.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the rack of lamb is done?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium rare, cook to 130 F. The meat will look pink and juicy inside.

2. Can I cook frozen lamb in the air fryer?
It is best to thaw the lamb first. This helps it cook evenly and gives you a better crust.

3. What if I do not have an air fryer?
You can roast the rack in the oven at 400 F for about 20 to 25 minutes. The texture will still be tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Rack of Lamb with Roasted Garlic Aioli is simple, elegant, and full of flavor. The outside is crisp, the inside is tender, and the creamy garlic sauce brings it all together. It is one of those lamb meals that looks impressive but feels easy in the kitchen. Save this recipe for your next special dinner and do not forget to share it on Pinterest so others can enjoy it too.