Name: Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lobster tails (4–6 oz each); ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; lemon wedges (for serving)

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If you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to something exquisite, the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe is pure decadence made easy. Imagine juicy lobster tails, bathed in rich melted butter, garlic, and a kiss of lemon, then baked to tender perfection—this dish is the very definition of restaurant-quality indulgence that you can pull off in less than 30 minutes. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, the preparation is straightforward, and each bite is unforgettable. This is the kind of showstopper recipe that has everyone asking for seconds and the secrets behind your magic!

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to a stellar Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe is letting a few, high-quality ingredients shine. Each one plays a starring role, whether it’s adding flavor, contrast, or luscious color to the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need (and why!):

Lobster Tails: Choose 4–6 oz tails for perfect portions; fresh or thawed frozen tails both work wonders.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter brings richness and acts as a decadent base for the garlic sauce.
Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma and signature savory flavor.
Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity from lemon juice wakes up the flavors and balances the rich butter.
Lemon Zest: The zest boosts the citrusy zing and adds lively color.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings a burst of fresh, herby brightness and cheerful green.
Smoked Paprika: This spice lends a gorgeous warmth and subtle smokiness that sets the dish apart.
Salt: Just enough to enhance every nuance of the lobster and buttery sauce.
Black Pepper: For gentle heat and an enlivening bite.
Lemon Wedges: The ideal finishing touch—guests can squeeze them over for extra zing at the table.

How to Make Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping before the tail fin. Gently wiggle your fingers underneath the meat and lift it up, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base. This not only looks elegant but ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This luscious mixture will be your star—don’t skimp here! The combination of garlic, citrus, and butter will soak into the lobster, infusing it with mouthwatering flavor.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

Arrange your lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the garlic butter sauce all over the exposed lobster meat, making sure to get into every nook and cranny. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, just until the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch. To get that irresistible golden finish on top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but watch closely so it doesn’t overcook.

Step 4: Serve with Extra Flair

Plate your piping-hot lobster tails immediately. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce and add lemon wedges on the side. Each tail should look restaurant-worthy: glistening, golden, and scented with lemon and herbs. This is the showstopper moment everyone waits for!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley and a twist of black pepper. A couple of vibrant lemon wedges look beautiful and let everyone adjust the citrus zing to their liking. For special occasions, a pinch of smoked paprika right before serving adds a pop of color and drama.

Side Dishes

Pair these luxurious lobster tails with simple sides that let the flavors shine. Think steamed asparagus or green beans, fluffy jasmine rice, or hunks of crusty artisan bread for soaking up every last drop of garlic butter. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette keeps the meal elegant and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive presentation, arrange the lobster tails on a large platter surrounded by bright lemon slices and sprigs of fresh herbs. If you’re serving starters, cut the baked lobster into bite-sized pieces and skewer them for an upscale appetizer. Or, for a romantic dinner at home, place two lobster tails side by side on a plate with edible flowers and a glass of chilled white wine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe (lucky you!), place the tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two days—just enough time to enjoy a second round or create a decadent lobster roll.

Freezing

While fresh-cooked lobster is always best, you can freeze leftover cooked lobster meat in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. For best flavor, remove the meat from the shells first. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve tenderness and taste.

Reheating

To keep your lobster juicy, gently reheat in a covered baking dish with a little extra butter at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can—it can make lobster tough and rubbery. The gentle heat keeps every bite succulent, just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I grill the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe instead of baking?

Absolutely! Prepare the lobster tails and garlic butter as described, then grill over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. This adds wonderful smokiness and works perfectly for summer dinners outside.

How do I know the lobster tails are done?

Lobster tails are ready when the meat is opaque, white, and slightly firm to the touch. For precision, use a food thermometer: the internal temperature should hit 135–140°F. Overcooked lobster gets tough, so keep a close eye during that last minute or two.

Can I use frozen lobster tails in this Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster tails work beautifully. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator (never in the microwave) to ensure even cooking and a pristine, tender texture.

What’s the best way to cut and butterfly lobster tails?

Use sharp kitchen shears to cut straight down the top of each shell, stopping at the base. Carefully release the meat from the shell without detaching it at the end, then rest it on top. This technique makes the tails look grand and bake evenly.

Can I make extra garlic butter for dipping?

Absolutely! Double the garlic butter ingredients and warm the extra in a small saucepan. Serve on the side for dipping your lobster, bread, or even veggies—a real crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a special celebration or a well-deserved treat on a random Tuesday, I can’t recommend the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe enough. It’s luxurious but accessible, dazzling yet delightfully simple. Gather your ingredients, let the aromas fill your kitchen, and watch everyone light up at first bite—this is a dish you’ll want to share again and again!

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of succulent lobster tails basted with a savory garlic butter sauce. This elegant yet straightforward recipe is perfect for a special dinner or holiday celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

Lobster Tails:

4 lobster tails (4–6 oz each)

Garlic Butter Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Serving:

lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet. Cut the lobster shells to expose the meat.
Prepare Garlic Butter: Mix melted butter with garlic, lemon juice, zest, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat Lobster: Brush lobster meat generously with garlic butter.
Bake: Place lobster tails on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until cooked.
Optional Broiling: Broil for 1–2 minutes for additional color.
Serve: Serve hot with extra garlic butter and lemon wedges.