Lamb cooking times and calculator
Whether it’s lamb shoulder, leg of lamb, lamb shanks, or any other cut of lamb, this page will tell you how to roast lamb perfectly. It tells you how long your lamb needs to cook, including how to slow-cook lamb, hints and tips on the best way to cook your roast lamb, and some ideas for the best lamb recipes around. All you need to do is follow our advice to get the perfect roast lamb dinner!
Lamb roasting tips
- Let the meat come up to room temperature before cooking
- Roasting the meat at a very high temperature for 20 minutes before bringing the heat down to the temperture indicated will allow the heat to reach the centre of the joint and seal in the flavour.
- Don't forget to rest the meat before carving. This allows the meat to relax and distributes the juices throughout. A general rule of thumb used by chefs for resting meat is 1 minute for every 100g of meat.
Need the right cut?
Find butchers, farm shops and food suppliers that match the meal you are planning.
Find suppliersRecipe ideas for Lamb
A little inspiration for the cut you have selected.
Lamb cooking time questions.
Use the calculator for planning, then make the final food-safety checks before anyone eats.
How do I use this Lamb cooking time calculator safely?
Choose the cut and weight, use the calculated time as a planning guide, then check the thickest part of the meat with a food thermometer before serving.
Can I rely on cooking time alone for Lamb?
No. Oven performance, cut shape, starting temperature and stuffing all change the result. Use the time as guidance and confirm doneness with temperature and visual checks.
Should Lamb rest before carving?
Yes. Resting helps the meat relax and improves carving. The page tips include practical resting guidance for the selected meat.
Useful next steps.
Move from a single timing to a complete cooking plan, method guide or supplier search.