Description
Garlic Butter Lobster Tail is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish featuring tender lobster meat bathed in rich, lemony garlic butter. Perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner at home, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Introduction
Few dishes feel as indulgent as lobster tail, and when paired with a silky garlic butter sauce, it becomes truly unforgettable. This recipe focuses on proper butterflying, precise cooking, and a balanced butter sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster without overpowering it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It looks impressive but is easy to prepare
The garlic butter enhances the lobster’s natural sweetness
Perfect for special occasions or date nights
Multiple cooking methods included
Ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails
2 lobster tails (6–8 oz each), thawed if frozen
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for color)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
Lemon wedges
Extra fresh parsley
Instructions
Prepare the Lobster Tails (Butterfly)
Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the top shell from end to base, being careful not to cut through the bottom shell.
Gently pry the shell apart and loosen the meat. Lift the meat through the opening and rest it on top of the shell.
Using a sharp knife, make a shallow slit down the center of the exposed meat to help it cook evenly.
Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet.
Season the Lobster
Brush the lobster meat lightly with olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, without browning.
Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and red pepper flakes.
Broil the Lobster Tails
Preheat the broiler on HIGH. Position the oven rack about 5–6 inches from the heat source.
Spoon half of the garlic butter sauce over the lobster meat.
Broil for 1–2 minutes per ounce, until the meat is opaque, white, and firm. Internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
Remove from the oven and immediately spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the lobster.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Grilling Method
Prepare and season the lobster tails as directed.
Grill meat-side down over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes.
Flip shell-side down, spoon butter sauce over the meat, cover, and grill for 4–6 more minutes until cooked through.
Baking Method
Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 1–1½ minutes per ounce.
Spoon butter sauce over the lobster halfway through baking.
Tips for Perfect Lobster Tails
Choose cold-water lobster tails for the sweetest flavor
Thaw frozen tails slowly in the refrigerator for best texture
Never overcook—lobster becomes rubbery quickly
Butterflying ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption
Add a splash of white wine to the butter for extra depth
Serving Suggestions
Creamy mashed potatoes or risotto to soak up the sauce
Crusty bread for dipping
Grilled asparagus or green beans for balance
Steak for a classic surf-and-turf meal
FAQs
How do I know when lobster is done?
The meat should be opaque, white, and firm, not translucent.
Can I make the butter sauce ahead?
Yes, gently reheat before serving.
Is broiling better than baking?
Broiling gives faster cooking and better browning, but both work well.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Lobster Tail is a show-stopping dish that delivers elegance, flavor, and simplicity all in one. Whether broiled, baked, or grilled, this recipe guarantees tender lobster infused with rich garlic butter—perfect for celebrating life’s special moments or turning an ordinary evening into something extraordinary.