This broiled lobster tail with lemon butter is a quick and elegant seafood dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. With tender, buttery lobster meat brushed with a garlic lemon butter sauce and perfectly broiled for a golden, slightly charred finish, this dish is both simple and impressive. Serve it with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a gourmet meal in just minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Rich & Flavorful – Lemon, garlic, and butter enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Perfect for Special Occasions – An elegant dish for date nights, holidays, or celebrations.
Broiled to Perfection – The high heat gives a slightly charred, golden finish.
Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lobster tails
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

Directions

Preheat the Broiler
- Set your oven to broil on high and place the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise.
- Gently pull the meat up and rest it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Brush the Lobster with Butter
- Generously brush the lobster meat with the lemon butter mixture.
Broil the Lobster Tails
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, slightly golden, and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the cooked lobster tails.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter.
Garlic Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for added depth.
Cheesy Lobster: Sprinkle grated Parmesan before broiling for a rich, cheesy crust.
White Wine Butter Sauce: Stir in a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika for a deep, smoky taste.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Freezing: Not recommended, as lobster can become rubbery when reheated.

FAQs

How do I know when the lobster is done?

The meat should be opaque, slightly firm, and reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, but thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

What sides go well with broiled lobster tails?

Serve with garlic butter pasta, roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I use pre-cooked lobster tails?

Fresh or raw lobster tails work best, but you can broil pre-cooked lobster for a few minutes to reheat.

How do I prevent the lobster from drying out?

Baste with butter throughout cooking and avoid overcooking.

Do I need to remove the vein from the lobster?

Yes, check for and remove any visible dark vein running through the meat.

Can I broil multiple lobster tails at once?

Yes! Arrange them evenly on the baking sheet and adjust the butter mixture accordingly.

Can I add lemon zest to the butter sauce?

Absolutely! Lemon zest enhances the fresh citrus flavor.

What’s the best butter for this recipe?

Unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning, but salted butter also works well.

How can I make this dish extra special?

Pair it with a glass of white wine, serve with a gourmet side dish, or drizzle with truffle butter for a luxurious touch.

Conclusion

This easy broiled lobster tail recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. With a rich lemon garlic butter sauce and a perfectly broiled finish, this dish is both flavorful and elegant. Whether for a special occasion or a gourmet meal, this recipe delivers tender, juicy lobster tails in just minutes. Try it today and enjoy an effortless yet indulgent seafood dinner!