Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails are one of my favorite ways to enjoy lobster at home. They’re elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of tender lobster meat with rich garlic butter makes for a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it brings restaurant-quality lobster to my own table with minimal effort. Baking the lobster tails ensures they remain juicy and tender, while the garlic butter adds depth and richness. Whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or simply treating myself, this dish always impresses.
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
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
Directions
- I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking dish by adding a small amount of water to cover the bottom. This helps keep the lobster moist during baking.
- Using kitchen shears, I cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the base. I gently pull apart the shell to expose the meat, lifting it slightly above the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
- In a saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, I stir in the lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- I place the prepared lobster tails in the baking dish and brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. If I want a touch of color, I sprinkle a bit of paprika on top.
- I cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the lobster tails for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
- Once done, I remove the foil and, if desired, broil the lobster tails for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a slight golden crust.
- I serve the lobster tails hot, drizzled with any remaining garlic butter and garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick. If I’m in the mood for a creamier sauce, I incorporate a splash of heavy cream into the butter mixture. For a smoky flavor, I occasionally use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the lobster tails in a baking dish, cover them with foil, and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. I avoid microwaving, as it can make the lobster rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, I often use frozen lobster tails. I make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before preparing the dish.
How do I know when the lobster is cooked?
The lobster meat turns opaque and firm when cooked. An internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) indicates it’s done.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Absolutely. I sometimes make the garlic butter a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. I reheat it gently before using.
What sides pair well with this dish?
I enjoy serving these lobster tails with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.
Can I grill the lobster tails instead?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative. I prepare the lobster tails as described, then grill them over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side, basting with the garlic butter.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails are a delightful dish that brings a touch of luxury to any meal. I love how simple they are to prepare, yet they never fail to impress. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is always a winner.
Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails are a luxurious yet easy seafood dish perfect for special occasions or elegant dinners at home. Juicy lobster meat is topped with a rich garlic butter sauce and baked to perfection—ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Add a small amount of water to the bottom of a baking dish.
- Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of each lobster shell lengthwise. Gently pull the meat above the shell, keeping it attached at the base.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place lobster tails in the baking dish. Brush generously with garlic butter. Sprinkle paprika on top if desired.
- Cover dish with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until lobster is opaque and firm.
- Optional: Remove foil and broil for 2–3 minutes to lightly brown the top.
- Serve hot, drizzled with remaining garlic butter. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes to the butter for a spicy kick.
- Mix in a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
- Smoked paprika adds depth and a smoky finish.
- Grilling is a great alternative cooking method.
Leave a Reply