How Long to BBQ Butterflied Leg of Lamb? Time, Temp & Tips

By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Herb-crusted lamb chops seared on the grill

Quick Answer

BBQ Butterflied Leg of Lamb for Sear 5 min/side, then indirect 20-30 min at Sear: 230-260°C (450-500°F), Indirect: 160-180°C (325-350°F). Internal temp: 57-63°C (135-145°F) medium-rare to medium. Rest for 15-20 minutes.

Butterflied Leg of Lamb BBQ Guide

Butterflied leg of lamb (bone removed, opened flat) is the ultimate BBQ centrepiece. The varying thickness means you get a range of doneness — well-done edges for those who prefer it, pink centre for everyone else. Marinate overnight in garlic, rosemary, lemon, and olive oil. Sear both sides, then finish over indirect heat.

Cook Time

Sear 5 min/side, then indirect 20-30 min

Temperature

Sear: 230-260°C (450-500°F), Indirect: 160-180°C (325-350°F)

Internal Temp

57-63°C (135-145°F) medium-rare to medium

Rest Time

15-20 minutes

How to BBQ Butterflied Leg of Lamb — Step by Step

Prep: Bring to room temperature. Season or marinate as desired.
Preheat: Get your BBQ to Sear: 230-260°C (450-500°F), Indirect: 160-180°C (325-350°F). Clean and oil the grate.
Cook: Grill for Sear 5 min/side, then indirect 20-30 min.
Check: Use a meat thermometer — target 57-63°C (135-145°F) medium-rare to medium..
Rest: 15-20 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes

Not pounding to even thickness — extreme variation in doneness
Skipping the marinade — the large surface area absorbs flavour beautifully
Not resting long enough — big cuts need 15-20 minutes

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long to BBQ butterflied leg of lamb?

BBQ butterflied leg of lamb for Sear 5 min/side, then indirect 20-30 min at Sear: 230-260°C (450-500°F), Indirect: 160-180°C (325-350°F). Target internal temperature: 57-63°C (135-145°F) medium-rare to medium.

What temperature for butterflied leg of lamb on the BBQ?

Cook butterflied leg of lamb at Sear: 230-260°C (450-500°F), Indirect: 160-180°C (325-350°F). Internal temperature should reach 57-63°C (135-145°F) medium-rare to medium.

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Sources & References

Guga Foods (YouTube)

Premium lamb grilling experiments and flavour comparisons.

Video

Weber Grill Skills

Weber Australia's guides for grilling lamb on gas and charcoal.

Manufacturer

How to BBQ Right (YouTube)

Malcom Reed's grilling and smoking techniques for lamb.