These garlic herb butter lobster tails are an elegant yet simple seafood dish that delivers rich, buttery flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for a special dinner or an impressive weeknight meal, this recipe gives you tender, juicy lobster with a restaurant-style finish right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal when you want something luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic herb butter enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, while baking and broiling ensure a perfectly juicy interior with a lightly golden top. It’s also versatile enough to serve for family dinners, celebrations, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6–8 lobster tails, thawed if frozen
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Using sharp kitchen scissors, cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently pull the lobster meat upward, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir until fully blended.
Arrange the lobster tails in a baking dish or foil-lined tray. Brush the garlic herb butter generously over the lobster meat, reserving a small amount for later if desired.
Bake the lobster tails for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and tender.
Switch the oven to broil on high and broil the lobster tails for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the tops are lightly browned and bubbling.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve immediately.
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
For extra richness, mix a tablespoon of grated Parmesan into the garlic butter before brushing it on the lobster.
For a herb-forward version, replace Italian seasoning with fresh thyme or chives.
For citrus depth, add a small amount of lemon zest to the butter mixture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a covered baking dish and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the lobster tough and rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, frozen lobster tails work well as long as they are fully thawed before cooking.
How do I know when lobster tails are done?
Lobster meat is done when it turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of about 140–145°F.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes, the garlic butter can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Should I rinse lobster tails before cooking?
Rinsing is optional, but be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning.
Can I grill these lobster tails instead of baking?
Yes, lobster tails can be grilled over medium heat, shell-side down, until fully cooked.
Is it necessary to butterfly the lobster tails?
Butterflying is not required, but it helps the lobster cook evenly and improves presentation.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad all pair well.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting cooking time slightly if needed.
Why did my lobster turn out tough?
Overcooking is the most common reason. Keep a close eye on the lobster, especially during broiling.
Conclusion
Garlic herb butter lobster tails are a simple yet impressive dish that brings bold flavor and elegance to the table. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy perfectly cooked lobster at home whenever the craving strikes.
These garlic herb butter lobster tails are an easy yet elegant seafood dish, featuring tender lobster meat brushed with a flavorful garlic, lemon, and herb butter. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
6–8 lobster tails, thawed if frozen
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise with kitchen scissors. Gently lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Arrange lobster tails in a baking dish. Brush garlic herb butter generously over the meat, reserving a small amount for serving if desired.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and tender.
Broil on high for 1–2 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcook—lobster meat turns tough when overdone.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Grated Parmesan can be added to butter for extra richness.
Use lemon zest for deeper citrus flavor.
Prepare garlic butter ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.
