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Delicious garlic butter lobster tails served on a plate.

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Impress your guests with these decedent garlic butter lobster tails, perfectly cooked with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Lobster Tails
  • 2 pieces 2 lobster tails (fresh or thawed, 6–8 ounces each) Choose largest tails for a meatier bite.
Garlic Butter Preparation
  • 4 tablespoons 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Use European butter for a richer finish if available.
  • 3 cloves 3 garlic cloves, minced or 1 teaspoon garlic paste.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked paprika adds depth.
  • Salt Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 pieces 2 lemon wedges Lemon juice brightens the butter at the table.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste Optional for color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If frozen, thaw lobster tails overnight in the refrigerator or place sealed tails in cold water for 30–60 minutes. Pat dry.
  2. Place tails on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the shell lengthwise, stopping at the base. Pry the shell open slightly.
  3. Gently lift the lobster meat out of the shell and rest it on top for an attractive presentation; leave the tail end attached.
  4. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub gently so the spices cling.
Cooking
  1. Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe cup. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sit for 1–2 minutes off the heat to infuse the butter (don’t burn the garlic).
  2. Brush the garlic butter generously over the lobster meat. Reserve some butter for serving.
  3. Broil method: Preheat broiler and position the rack 4–6 inches from the heat. Broil 4–6 minutes until the meat is opaque and slightly browned on top.
  4. Baking method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a lined pan for 8–12 minutes until opaque and firm.
  5. Remove from oven, spoon remaining butter over the meat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Store leftover lobster in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep lobster separate from extra butter to avoid sogginess.