Herb-Crusted Air Fryer Rack of Lamb: A Gourmet Quick-Roast.

Cooking a rack of lamb in the air fryer is one of the most efficient ways to achieve a restaurant-quality crust while maintaining a perfectly edge-to-edge pink interior. The high-velocity hot air mimics a convection oven but in a concentrated space, allowing the fat cap to render and crisp beautifully in a fraction of the time required by traditional roasting.

The success of this recipe relies on a two-stage approach: a high-heat sear for the crust and a mandatory rest to allow the juices to redistribute. It is a reliable, sophisticated meal that feels celebratory but requires minimal active preparation.

Ingredients

The Lamb

1 Rack of Lamb: (approx. 7–8 bones), frenched.
1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

The Herb Rub

2 Cloves Garlic: Minced.
1 Tablespoon Fresh Rosemary: Finely chopped.
1 Tablespoon Fresh Thyme: Finely chopped.
1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt.
1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper.
1/2 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard: (Acts as a binder for the herbs).

Instructions

1. Temper and Prep

Remove the lamb from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout. Pat the meat thoroughly dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of a crisp, seared crust.

2. Apply the Rub

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Rub the mixture generously over the entire rack, focusing heavily on the meaty side.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for about 5 minutes. A hot basket is essential for an immediate sear.

4. The Air Fry

Place the lamb in the basket, fat-side up. If your rack is too long for the basket, you can gently curve it or cut it into two smaller 4-bone sections.

Medium-Rare: 12–15 minutes.
Medium: 16–18 minutes.
Internal Temperature: Aim for 52°C for medium-rare (the temperature will rise slightly during the rest).

5. The Essential Rest

Transfer the lamb to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to settle, ensuring the meat stays succulent when sliced.¹

6. Carve and Serve

Slice between the bones into individual chops. Serve immediately with a side of mint sauce or roasted root vegetables.

Flavor & Texture Notes

The primary sensation is succulent richness. The air fryer creates a deeply browned, savory crust infused with garlic and evergreen herbs, while the interior remains incredibly tender and “butter-soft.”

The Dijon mustard provides a subtle tang that cuts through the natural gaminess of the lamb, while the rendered fat capadds a luxurious, crispy mouthfeel.

Tips & Variations

The Crust Addition: For a crunchier texture, mix 2 tablespoons of Panko breadcrumbs into your herb rub.
Proper Sizing: If cooking two racks, ensure they do not overlap in the basket; airflow must reach all sides to maintain the crust integrity.
Bone Safety: If the bones are very long and touching the heating element, wrap the tips in a small piece of foil to prevent charring.

Storage & Maintenance

Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To avoid overcooking the center, reheat in the air fryer at 150°C for 3–5 minutes just until warmed through.
Freezing: I do not recommend freezing the cooked lamb, as the delicate texture of the medium-rare center will deteriorate upon thawing.

FAQ

Do I need to flip the lamb?

In most basket-style air fryers, flipping is not strictly necessary because the air circulates underneath. However, flipping it halfway through can help ensure the bottom side develops more color.

What if my rack of lamb is frozen?

Always thaw lamb completely before air frying. Cooking from frozen will result in a burnt exterior and a raw, cold center.

Why is my lamb tough?

This is almost always due to skipping the resting phase or overcooking beyond 63°C. Use a meat thermometer to pull the lamb at the precise moment.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Rack of Lamb is a masterclass in modern convenience meeting culinary tradition. By utilizing the intense heat of the air fryer, you achieve a professional-grade roast in under 20 minutes. It is a reliable recipe that provides a high-impact, flavorful experience with very little cleanup.