Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails offer the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor and the sweet, tender meat of lobster. The garlic butter sauce is infused with a smoky touch of paprika and fresh lemon juice, elevating the lobster’s natural sweetness. Broiling the lobster gives it a deliciously charred exterior while keeping the inside perfectly moist and tender. This easy-to-make recipe doesn’t require complicated techniques but delivers a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect showstopper without all the fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails (6–8 oz each)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails:
   • Preheat your broiler to high heat.
   • Using kitchen scissors, cut the top of each lobster tail shell lengthwise. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat, leaving the end of the tail attached to the shell.
   • Use your fingers or a spoon to gently lift the lobster meat from the shell and rest it on top of the shell.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Broil the Lobster Tails:
   • Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet or broiler pan, meat side up.
   • Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter sauce.
   • Broil the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through, and the edges are slightly golden and charred. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
4. Serve:
   • Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the oven and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Butter: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to infuse the butter sauce with new flavors.
• Grilled Lobster: Instead of broiling, grill the lobster tails for a smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the lobster tails for about 5-7 minutes on each side.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat lobster tails in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Be careful not to overcook when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.

How do I know when lobster tails are done?

Lobster tails are done when the meat is opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I grill the lobster tails instead of broiling them?

Yes, grilling the lobster tails gives them a nice smoky flavor. Simply grill the lobster tails on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with garlic butter as you go.

What’s the best way to cut lobster tails?

To cut lobster tails, use kitchen scissors to cut along the top of the shell, then gently pull the shell apart to expose the meat. Be careful not to cut through the lobster meat itself.

Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before using.

Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika?

Yes, you can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika. However, smoked paprika adds a unique smoky flavor that enhances the lobster.

How do I serve garlic butter lobster tails?

Lobster tails are typically served with lemon wedges and sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or mashed potatoes.

What’s the best way to crack open the lobster meat?

Once the lobster is cooked, use a lobster cracker or kitchen scissors to crack the shell. You can also use a fork or your fingers to pull the meat out.

Can I make this recipe with smaller lobster tails?

Yes, you can use smaller lobster tails, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Smaller tails may only need 6-8 minutes under the broiler.

How do I store leftover lobster tails?

Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the tails are completely cooled before refrigerating.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are the perfect way to bring the elegance of the ocean to your dinner table. The combination of smoky paprika, buttery garlic sauce, and fresh lemon makes each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to a luxurious dinner, these lobster tails are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe will become a go-to for seafood lovers. Enjoy every juicy, tender bite!

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