Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Short Description

Juicy, tender lobster tails broiled to perfection and drenched in a rich, garlicky butter sauce—this dish exudes simple elegance. Ideal for romantic dinners, holiday feasts, or whenever you want to impress, this recipe is as luxurious as it is easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and bold garlic-lemon flavor, this lobster tail dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Quick to cook and beautifully presented, it’s an indulgent yet approachable entrée that turns any meal into a celebration.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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)

Directions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails
   Using kitchen scissors, cut the top of each lobster shell lengthwise from the base to the tail fin. Carefully pull the meat upward through the slit and rest it on top of the shell, keeping the meat attached at the base.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

3. Coat the Lobster Tails
   Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat.

4. Broil the Lobster
   Preheat your oven broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Arrange the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet.
   Broil for 8–10 minutes, basting with additional garlic butter halfway through, until the meat is opaque and lightly browned.

5. Garnish and Serve
   Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 lobster tails

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 200 per serving

• Protein: Approximately 22g per serving

Variations

• Spicy Cajun: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.

• Garlic Herb Blend: Mix in thyme or rosemary with the garlic butter for an herbaceous twist.

• Grilled Version: Instead of broiling, grill the lobster tails over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor.

• Wine Infusion: Add a tablespoon of white wine to the garlic butter mixture for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a bit of butter over low heat to avoid overcooking the lobster meat.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as lobster texture can degrade when frozen after cooking.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the lobster tails are done?

The meat will turn opaque and firm. A slight golden-brown color on top indicates doneness.

2. Can I prepare the lobster tails in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and butterfly the tails a few hours ahead. Keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.

3. Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes—thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

4. What can I serve with garlic butter lobster tails?

Great pairings include steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

5. Is smoked paprika essential?

No, but it adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the color of the lobster meat.

6. Can I use salted butter?

Yes—if using salted butter, reduce the added salt to avoid oversalting.

7. Do I need to remove the vein from the lobster tail?

Yes—use a knife to remove the dark vein running through the lobster meat if present.

8. How do I butterfly lobster tails safely?

Use kitchen shears to cut through the shell, then gently lift and separate the meat from the shell without detaching it.

9. Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes—substitute with a plant-based butter alternative, though flavor will vary slightly.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the garlic butter beautifully.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a decadent yet approachable seafood dish that brings elegance to any table. With their tender texture, bold garlic flavor, and stunning presentation, they are the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion—or when you simply want to enjoy something extraordinary.

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