Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Garlic butter lobster tails are a simple yet luxurious dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. Baked in the oven with a rich garlic butter sauce and finished with fresh parsley and lemon, these lobster tails are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a romantic meal or an elegant seafood dinner, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Quick – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Rich & Flavorful – Garlic butter and smoked paprika enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – A restaurant-quality dish made at home.
• Oven-Baked Perfection – Ensures even cooking and juicy, tender lobster meat.
• Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted 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)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Prepare the Lobster Tails

   • Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise.
   • Gently pull the lobster meat up and rest 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, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

4. Brush with Garlic Butter

   • Generously brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture.

5. Bake the Lobster Tails

   • Place the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet.
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

6. Garnish & Serve

   • Sprinkle fresh parsley over the baked lobster tails.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 20–22 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Lobster Tails: Instead of baking, grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter.
• Extra Herb Flavor: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the butter.
• Cheesy Lobster Tails: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before baking.
• Wine-Infused Sauce: Add a splash of white wine to the butter mixture for extra depth.

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 frozen and reheated.

FAQs

How do I know when the lobster is done?

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

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

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

What should I serve with lobster tails?

Garlic butter pasta, roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair well.

Can I broil instead of bake?

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

How do I prevent the lobster from drying out?

Basting with butter and not overcooking ensures a juicy, tender texture.

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

Yes, remove any visible dark vein running through the meat before cooking.

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 the baking sheet and adjust the butter mixture accordingly.

Can I add lemon zest to the butter sauce?

Yes! Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh citrus flavor that enhances the dish.

What type of butter is best?

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

Conclusion

This garlic butter lobster tail recipe is an easy and elegant way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. The rich garlic butter, smoky paprika, and fresh lemon bring out the best flavors in the lobster, making it a perfect dish for a special occasion or a gourmet meal at home. Try this simple yet impressive recipe today and elevate your dining experience!