Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect balance of rich garlic butter and fresh citrusy notes.
- Restaurant-quality meal at a fraction of the cost.
- Impressively elegant, yet simple enough for beginners.
- Customizable with your favorite spices or side dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 lobster tails (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the base. Gently lift the lobster meat from the shell, leaving the tail attached at the base. Lay the meat on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat, reserving a small amount for serving.
- Arrange the lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven, drizzle the reserved garlic butter over the lobster tails, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Calories: 280 per serving
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a bit of heat.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Swap parsley with fresh thyme or dill for a different herbal note.
- Grilled Option: Instead of baking, grill the lobster tails over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Butter Alternatives: Use ghee or olive oil for a lighter twist.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect complement.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 5-7 minutes to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, use a microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for quicker thawing.
2. How do I know when lobster is cooked?
Cooked lobster meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce additional salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting.
4. What sides go well with lobster tails?
Steamed asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair beautifully.
5. Can I prepare the lobster ahead of time?
You can prep the lobster tails and garlic butter sauce a few hours ahead. Brush and bake just before serving.
6. What type of lobster tails should I buy?
Cold-water lobster tails are preferred for their sweet and tender meat.
7. Can I substitute lemon juice?
Lime juice or white wine can be used for a similar acidic flavor.
8. Why use paprika in the recipe?
Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
9. Is it okay to skip parsley?
Yes, parsley is optional but adds freshness and color to the dish.
10. Can I bake lobster tails at a lower temperature?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, checking for doneness.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe delivers a rich and indulgent seafood delight that’s simple enough for home cooks and impressive enough for guests. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to elevate any occasion. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home.
Garlic Butter Lobster Tail
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the perfect combination of elegance and simplicity with this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe. Succulent lobster meat is brushed with a rich garlic butter sauce and baked to perfection. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers restaurant-quality flavor at home, making it ideal for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails (6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Cut the top shell of each lobster tail with scissors, lift the meat, and place it on top of the shell.
- Mix butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Brush lobster meat with the butter mixture, reserving some for serving.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until meat is opaque and reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Drizzle with reserved butter and garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Add cayenne for spice or swap parsley with dill for variety.
- Grill instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
- Pair with Sauvignon Blanc for an elevated dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
