Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a simple yet indulgent seafood dish perfect for special occasions or a treat-yourself dinner. Tender lobster meat is brushed with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and broiled to golden perfection. This recipe brings restaurant-quality lobster right to your home kitchen with ease.

Ingredients

• 2 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each), thawed if frozen
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat up and rest it on top of the shell, exposing it for cooking.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3: Place the lobster tails on a foil-lined tray. Generously brush the exposed lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture, reserving some for serving later.
4. Step 4: Broil the lobster tails on high, positioning them 6 to 8 inches from the heat source. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until the meat is opaque and lightly golden on top.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the lobster tails with the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle with extra parsley if desired, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoky depth, try substituting smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder.
• If you prefer a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce while cooking.
• Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover cooked lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or covered skillet to avoid overcooking the lobster meat. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

How do I know when the lobster tails are done?

The lobster meat will turn opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked. Typically, broiling for 8 to 10 minutes is sufficient, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

This Garlic Butter Lobster Tails recipe features succulent lobster tails broiled to perfection and smothered in a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce infused with lemon, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley. An elegant yet simple seafood dish, it’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Broiling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Lobster Tails

• 2 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each), thawed if frozen

Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

To Serve

• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat up so it rests on top of the shell, exposing the flesh for broiling.
2. Make Garlic Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Remove the sauce from heat to prevent burning the garlic.
3. Brush Lobster with Butter: Place the prepared lobster tails on a foil-lined baking tray. Generously brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter sauce, reserving some of the sauce for serving later.
4. Broil the Lobster: Position the oven rack 6 to 8 inches from the broiler element and set the broiler to high. Broil the lobster tails for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, cooked through, and slightly golden on top. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
5. Serve: Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the cooked lobster tails, sprinkle with additional fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

• Ensure lobster tails are fully thawed if frozen to promote even cooking.
• Broiling time may vary slightly depending on your oven’s strength; watch lobster closely to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.
• Serve with crusty bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: Garlic Butter Lobster, Lobster Tail Recipe, Broiled Lobster, Seafood Dinner, Easy Lobster Recipe