Best Lobster Tail Recipe

This classic baked lobster tail recipe is an elegant yet simple dish that highlights the rich, buttery flavor of lobster. Perfectly cooked in the oven with a garlic butter sauce, this recipe delivers tender, juicy lobster meat infused with the fresh taste of lemon and parsley. Whether for a special occasion or a gourmet dinner at home, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy a luxurious seafood dish without the high cost.
• Easy to Prepare – Simple steps make this an approachable dish for any cook.
• Rich & Flavorful – A garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster.
• Quick Cooking Time – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for a fast yet elegant meal.
• Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

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

• 2 lobster tails
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Prepare the Lobster Tails

   • Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise.
   • Gently pull the meat out, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

   • In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

4. Brush the Lobster Tails

   • Generously brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring full coverage.

5. Bake the Lobster Tails

   • Place the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet.
   • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, tender, and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

6. Garnish & Serve

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Lobster Tail: Instead of baking, grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Herb Butter Upgrade: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic butter for extra depth.
• Cheesy Lobster Tail: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the lobster before baking for a creamy, flavorful crust.
• Wine-Infused Sauce: Add a splash of white wine to the butter sauce for a refined 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 5–7 minutes or microwave in short bursts to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as lobster meat can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.

FAQs

How do I know when the lobster is done?

The lobster is fully cooked when the meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

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

What should I serve with lobster tails?

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

Can I broil lobster tails instead?

Yes! Broil on high for 7–10 minutes, basting with butter halfway through.

How do I prevent the lobster meat from drying out?

Basting with butter and not overcooking will keep the lobster juicy and tender.

Do I need to remove the vein from the lobster tail?

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

What’s the best way to cut lobster tails?

Use sharp kitchen shears and cut down the top shell without cutting the meat.

Can I cook more than two lobster tails at once?

Yes! Just arrange them evenly on a baking sheet and increase the butter mixture accordingly.

Can I add lemon zest to the butter?

Absolutely! Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh citrus flavor to enhance the dish.

What type of butter is best?

Unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning, but salted butter can also work.

Conclusion

This classic baked lobster tail recipe is an easy yet elegant way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. The rich garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, while the tender meat melts in your mouth. Whether for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a luxurious lobster dinner with minimal effort!