This Garlic Parmesan Lobster is a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender lobster meat is coated in a buttery garlic and Parmesan sauce, baked until golden, and finished with a touch of lemon for the perfect balance of richness and brightness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for an elegant seafood dinner that’s both simple and impressive, this Garlic Parmesan Lobster is a must-try. The garlic butter and Parmesan combination enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible flavor. Whether it’s a special occasion, a date night, or a weekend treat, this dish delivers a touch of luxury without needing a fancy restaurant.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Lobster:
2 whole lobsters, split in half
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place the lobster halves on the sheet, cut side up.
Make Garlic Parmesan Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Coat the Lobster
Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat, making sure every part is well coated.
Add Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the lobster halves.
Bake the Lobster
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Add a breadcrumb topping: Mix a tablespoon of breadcrumbs with Parmesan for extra crunch.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
Use lobster tails: If you can’t find whole lobsters, substitute with 4 lobster tails. Adjust baking time to 10–12 minutes.
Herb variation: Swap parsley for dill or chives for a different fresh flavor.
Storage/Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the lobster halves on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 8–10 minutes, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the lobster tough.
FAQs
How do I know when the lobster is cooked?
The lobster meat should be opaque and white, not translucent, and the shell should turn bright red.
Can I use frozen lobster?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Can I grill the lobster instead of baking?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes per side, brushing with the garlic butter mixture throughout.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best melt and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded versions, which can contain anti-caking agents.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the garlic butter mixture up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Melt it before using.
What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Lobster?
It pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! Its elegant look and rich flavor make it ideal for celebrations or romantic dinners.
Can I use other seafood with this recipe?
Yes, you can use the same mixture for shrimp, crab, or scallops for a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use less butter and substitute part of it with olive oil, and reduce the cheese slightly.
Can I freeze cooked lobster?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked lobster meat for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Lobster is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a stunning seafood dish that’s rich, flavorful, and worthy of any fine dining menu. Whether it’s for a special event or a luxurious dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
A luxurious yet simple baked lobster dish with tender meat coated in garlic butter and Parmesan cheese. Finished with lemon and parsley, this Garlic Parmesan Lobster delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Lobster:
2 whole lobsters, split in half
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Place lobster halves on the sheet, cut side up.
Make Garlic Parmesan Mixture: In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Lobster: Brush the mixture generously over the lobster meat.
Add Parmesan: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake the Lobster: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the lobster is opaque and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Use lobster tails if whole lobsters aren’t available (adjust cook time to 10–12 minutes).
Don’t overbake – lobster becomes tough if cooked too long.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
