Provençal Roasted Leg of Lamb
Meats

Provençal Roasted Leg of Lamb

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 25, 2026

A classic French-inspired leg of lamb, fragrant with Provençal herbs and garlic, slow-roasted to juicy perfection with a beautiful golden crust. This traditional southern French recipe is ideal for Sunday dinners or any special gathering. Marinate it overnight for the deepest flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Prep⏱️ 1120 min
Servings👥 6 servings
Difficulty📊 Medium
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🛒 Ingredients

6 servings

6
  • 1 leg of lamb (3 to 4 lbs / 1.5 to 2 kg)
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 2 medium onions, sliced
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Remove the leg of lamb from the fridge 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.

  2. 2

    Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Make 10 deep cuts all over the meat and push a garlic slice into each one.

  3. 3

    In a bowl, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture generously all over the lamb.

  4. 4

    Scatter the sliced onions in the bottom of a roasting pan. Set the lamb on top and tuck in the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.

  5. 5

    Pour the white wine and water around the lamb. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.

  6. 6

    Roast in a preheated oven at 350 °F (180 °C) for 1 hour.

  7. 7

    Remove the foil and continue roasting for 45 to 60 minutes, basting with the pan juices every 20 minutes.

  8. 8

    Check the internal temperature: 130 °F (55 °C) for medium-rare, 160 °F (70 °C) for well done. Rest under foil for 15 minutes before carving.

  9. 9

    Serve with dauphinois gratin, flageolet beans, or a seasonal ratatouille.

💡 Chef's Tip

For maximum flavor, prepare and marinate the lamb the night before. Consistent basting during the uncovered stage is the key to a golden, crispy crust while keeping the interior moist and tender.