Lamb temperature chart
USDA safe minimum internal temperatures for lamb, measured in the thickest part with a food thermometer.
| Cut | °F | °C | Rest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chops, rack and leg of lamb | 145°F | 63°C | 3 min |
| Ground lamb | 160°F | 71°C | — |
Lamb doneness chart
From the American Lamb Board, which pulls lamb 10°F before the final temperature.
| Doneness | Pull at | Final |
|---|---|---|
| Medium rare | 135°F (57°C) | 145°F (63°C) |
| Medium | 150°F (66°C) | 160°F (71°C) |
| Well done | 160°F (71°C) | 170°F (77°C) |
When to take lamb off the heat
The American Lamb Board says lamb's internal temperature keeps rising after it comes off the grill or out of the oven, so pull it 10°F below the doneness you want: 135°F for medium rare, 150°F for medium, 160°F for well done.
USDA's rule is stricter about timing: whole cuts should reach 145°F before they leave the heat, then rest 3 minutes.
Lamb temperatures by cut
The American Lamb Board lists medium rare, 145°F as the target for chops, rack of lamb, lamb ribs and kabobs, and medium rare to well done for bone-in leg, boneless leg and shoulder. Braised shanks and stew meat are cooked to medium, 160°F. Ground lamb is 160°F, the USDA minimum for ground meat. Rest kabobs at least 5 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is lamb medium rare?
145°F (63°C) after resting, according to the American Lamb Board. Pull it at 135°F.
What temperature is ground lamb done?
160°F (71°C), USDA's minimum for ground lamb and lamb mixtures such as meatloaf.
Other meat temperatures
- Beef & Steak: medium rare 135°F (57°C)
- Pork: 145°F (63°C)
- Venison: 160°F (71°C)
- Ground Beef: 160°F (71°C)
The full meat temperature chart has every USDA safe minimum and the doneness temperatures for beef, lamb and pork. Once it's cooked, the food storage chart shows how long leftovers keep in the fridge and freezer.
Sources
- American Lamb Board, Cooking Time & Temperature americanlamb.com/cooking-time-temperature/
- USDA FSIS, Lamb from Farm to Table www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-catfish/lamb-farm-table
- USDA FSIS, Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/safe-temperature-chart
Checked October 19, 2026.