Lobster Tail Recipe is the perfect way to treat yourself to a gourmet dining experience right at home. With a rich buttery sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and a hint of smoked paprika, these broiled lobster tails are bursting with flavor. The tender, juicy lobster meat pairs beautifully with the tangy brightness of lemon juice, while the smoked paprika and optional cayenne pepper add a subtle kick that enhances the lobster’s natural sweetness.
This recipe takes the intimidation out of cooking lobster, guiding you through each step—from preparing the lobster tails to brushing them with the flavorful butter mixture before broiling. Butterflying the lobster allows for a stunning presentation, with the succulent meat resting beautifully on top of the shell, ready to be brushed with a generous coating of garlicky butter. As they broil, the lobster tails turn a lovely golden hue, with the buttery sauce seeping into every nook and cranny.
Ready in just minutes, this elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to elevate your dinner. Serve the lobster tails with extra melted butter for dipping, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and perhaps a side of lemon wedges for added zest. Paired with a simple side salad or creamy mashed potatoes, these broiled lobster tails promise a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love It:
Restaurant Quality at Home: Learn to create tender, juicy lobster tails with a golden-brown finish just like you’d get at a high-end seafood restaurant.
Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cook time that’s roughly 1 minute per ounce, you can have this show-stopping dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce, with a hint of smoked paprika and lemon, enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, making each bite irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Butterflying the lobster tails creates a beautiful presentation that is sure to impress your guests—perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Key Ingredients:
Lobster Tails: Opt for 10-ounce lobster tails for this recipe. Fresh is best, but if you’re using frozen tails, ensure they are fully thawed before starting. Larger tails provide more meat and are easier to work with when butterflying.
Butter: Salted butter adds richness to the sauce. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to the mixture. Clarified butter is another great option for a more refined flavor.
Garlic: Freshly crushed garlic will give the butter sauce a vibrant, savory kick. Avoid garlic powder, as it lacks the same robust flavor.
Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. The acidity cuts through the richness of the butter and balances the dish perfectly.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness to the butter sauce that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the lobster. Regular paprika can be used if smoked is not available.
Cayenne Pepper: Optional but recommended for those who enjoy a touch of heat. A small pinch adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the dish.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
How to Make Perfect Broiled Lobster Tails
Step 1: Thaw the Lobster Tails
If using frozen lobster tails, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, or for a quicker method, place the tails in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water on the counter for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to Broil mode at 500°F (260°C). Adjust the oven rack so that when the lobster tails are placed on a baking sheet, they will sit 4 to 5 inches below the broiler.
Step 3: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Cut the Shell: Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the shell lengthwise, starting from the end opposite the tail fins and stopping just before reaching the tail fin.
Butterfly the Meat: Carefully spread the shell open using your fingers and thumbs. Pull the lobster meat upward, separating it from the shell while keeping the end attached at the tail fin. Lightly press the empty shell together underneath and rest the lobster meat on top, creating an attractive presentation. Arrange the butterflied tails on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
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Step 4: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, crushed garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). This rich, aromatic mixture will coat the lobster meat, adding flavor and moisture during cooking.
Step 5: Brush the Lobster Tails
Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the butter mixture over the exposed lobster meat. Ensure each tail is evenly coated, allowing the butter and spices to soak into the meat for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Broil the Lobster Tails
Place the baking sheet with the prepared lobster tails under the preheated broiler. Broil until the meat is opaque and lightly browned—typically about 1 minute per ounce of each lobster tail. For example, a 10-ounce lobster tail will need approximately 10 minutes. Watch them closely to avoid overcooking, as lobster can become tough if left under the broiler for too long.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Once the lobster tails are beautifully broiled with opaque meat and a touch of golden color, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a moment before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with extra melted butter for dipping, or enjoy them simply with their rich, buttery flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
These broiled lobster tails pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the richness of the lobster, soaking up the extra garlic butter.
Roasted Asparagus: A side of asparagus adds a touch of earthiness and pairs beautifully with the lemony garlic butter.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender lobster meat.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc enhances the buttery richness of the lobster.
Storage/Meal Prep Tips:
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover lobster tails, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep any remaining garlic butter for reheating.
Reheating: To avoid rubbery lobster, reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, basting with leftover garlic butter to keep the meat moist. Avoid the microwave as it can make the lobster tough.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the lobster tails and the butter mixture in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before broiling. This makes it easy to cook them fresh when your guests arrive.
Variations:
Grilled Lobster Tails: For a smoky, charred flavor, prepare the lobster tails as directed, then cook them on a hot grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, turning once. Brush with the garlic butter as they cook.
Spicy Cajun Lobster Tails: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the butter mixture for a zesty kick. This variation pairs perfectly with corn on the cob and red potatoes for a seafood boil-style meal.
Herb Butter Lobster Tails: Mix fresh chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or chives into the butter mixture for a fragrant and herbaceous flavor profile. This variation works well for those who prefer a milder, more garden-fresh taste.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the lobster meat before broiling for a crispy, cheesy crust that adds an extra layer of indulgence.
These broiled lobster tails are sure to become a go-to recipe when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special. With the perfect blend of garlic, butter, and a touch of lemon, each bite is a reminder that you don’t have to dine out to enjoy a truly delicious seafood meal. Happy cooking!
Broiled Lobster Tails
Ingredients
- 4 10-oz lobster tails fresh or properly thawed if frozen
- 1/4 cup salted butter melted (1/2 stick)
- 2 cloves garlic crushed
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper optional, for a subtle kick
Instructions
- If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
- Set your oven to Broil mode at 500°F (260°C). Adjust the oven rack so that when the lobster tails are placed on a baking sheet, they will sit 4 to 5 inches below the broiler.
- Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the shell lengthwise, stopping just before reaching the tail fin. Carefully spread the shell open and pull the lobster meat upward, separating it from the shell while keeping the end attached at the tail fin. Arrange the butterflied tails on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, crushed garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the butter mixture over the exposed lobster meat, ensuring each tail is evenly coated.
- Place the baking sheet with the prepared lobster tails under the preheated broiler. Broil until the meat is opaque and lightly browned, about 1 minute per ounce. For a 10-ounce lobster tail, this will take about 10 minutes. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- Once the lobster tails are broiled to perfection, remove them from the oven and let rest for a moment before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with extra melted butter, if desired.