Name: Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lobster tails; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Chopped parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

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Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to my kitchen. With tender, juicy lobster meat smothered in rich garlic butter and broiled to perfection, this recipe delivers elegance without the stress. It’s perfect for special occasions, date nights, or anytime I feel like treating myself to something indulgent.

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it makes me feel like a gourmet chef without requiring any complicated steps. The garlic butter soaks into the lobster meat, enhancing its natural sweetness with bold, buttery richness. It cooks quickly, looks stunning on the plate, and tastes even better than it looks. Plus, I can make it with just a handful of ingredients in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

lobster tails
unsalted butter
garlic, minced
lemon juice
smoked paprika
salt
black pepper
chopped parsley (for garnish)
lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

I begin by preheating the broiler and positioning the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
Using kitchen shears, I carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail down the center, stopping at the base of the tail.
I gently pull apart the shell and lift the lobster meat up, resting it on top of the shell for that classic presentation.
In a small saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for a minute to infuse the flavors.
I place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture.
I broil the lobster tails for about 8–10 minutes, depending on their size, until the meat is opaque and slightly browned on top.
Once done, I garnish them with chopped parsley and serve them with extra melted butter and lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe typically serves 2 to 4 people, depending on portion size and the number of lobster tails. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, and cook time is around 8–10 minutes, making the total time approximately 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat. A splash of white wine in the garlic butter adds a subtle depth. For a richer twist, I mix in a bit of grated Parmesan. If I’m going for a more herbaceous flavor, I throw in some thyme or tarragon.

storage/reheating

Leftover lobster tails can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm them in a skillet with a little butter over low heat to avoid drying them out. I avoid microwaving because it can make the meat rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when lobster tails are done cooking?

The meat turns opaque and white, and it should be firm to the touch. I also look for a slightly golden top if broiled properly.

Can I grill lobster tails instead of broiling?

Yes, I often grill them in the summer. I brush on the garlic butter and grill shell-side down over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes.

Should I thaw frozen lobster tails before cooking?

Absolutely. I thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What’s the best way to cut lobster tails for presentation?

I use sharp kitchen shears to cut the shell down the top, then gently loosen the meat and lift it over the shell without detaching it completely.

Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the garlic butter a day ahead and reheat it gently before using it on the lobster tails.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are one of my favorite ways to enjoy seafood at home. They’re easy to make, full of rich flavor, and always feel like a celebration on a plate. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a spontaneous treat, this dish never fails to impress.