Company Lamb Chops
Juicy lamb shoulder chops baked with vegetables in a flavorful tomato juice sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners and gatherings that enjoy rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lamb shoulder chops in hot fat and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the browned chops in a baking pan.
- Top each chop with a green pepper ring, a slice of onion, and a lemon slice.
- Pour tomato juice over the chops.
- Cover the pan and bake in a slow oven for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the lamb chops in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have lamb shoulder chops, rib chops can be a good substitute. To enhance the dish, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary. Using canned tomato juice is perfectly fine, but fresh tomatoes can elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lamb chops with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Creamy mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa also make excellent accompaniments. This dish pairs beautifully with Pecan-Breaded Lamb Chops for those who enjoy a nutty flavor profile. A glass of red wine can enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil to retain moisture, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Lamb Chops contains roughly 277 calories, with 32g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1226mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while lamb is traditional, you can substitute with thick-cut pork chops or chicken thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as different meats may require different baking times to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don’t have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or a combination of diced tomatoes and a little water. Alternatively, vegetable or chicken broth can work for a different flavor profile, but it will change the dish's overall taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes over the chops before baking or adding sliced jalapeños along with the green pepper. You can also marinate the chops in a spicy marinade with chili powder or hot sauce to infuse more flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).