Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

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Indulgent, luxurious, and easier than you might think, Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are the ultimate way to elevate a dinner at home. With tender, juicy lobster meat drizzled in a rich garlic butter sauce and broiled until lightly golden, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you just want to treat yourself to something decadent.

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. It doesn’t take many ingredients or much time to bring out the natural sweetness of lobster. The garlic butter enhances without overpowering, letting the seafood shine.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, this is the recipe to keep in your back pocket. The garlic butter gives an aromatic richness, while a quick broil locks in all the flavor and tenderness. It’s fast, elegant, and unforgettable.

Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a festive celebration, or a gourmet twist on weeknight dining, these lobster tails serve up restaurant-quality results with home-cooked heart.

What Kind of Lobster Tails Should I Use?

Cold water lobster tails are preferred for their sweeter and firmer meat compared to warm water varieties. Look for tails that are about 5 to 6 ounces each, with the shell intact and meat unblemished. Fresh or frozen (and properly thawed) both work great.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building flavor and achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture:

• 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each): The star of the show. Make sure they’re fresh or well-thawed if frozen.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Forms the base of our garlic butter, lending richness and moisture.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley: Adds color and freshness.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle warmth and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: A final touch of citrusy brightness.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Using kitchen scissors, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise down the center, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat upward, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Brush the Tails

Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure some of it drips into the shell for added moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Broil the lobster tails 5 to 6 inches from the heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and slightly golden on top. Baste halfway through with more garlic butter.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately with extra garlic butter on the side and lemon wedges. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

This recipe yields 4 lobster tails, ideal for serving 2 to 4 people, depending on whether it’s the main course or part of a larger spread.

Storing Tips: If you have leftovers, remove the meat from the shells and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a bit of leftover garlic butter.

Freezing is not recommended after cooking, as the lobster can become rubbery.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Lobster Tails?

H3: Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Silky smooth and buttery, mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the richness of lobster.

H3: Grilled Asparagus

Adds a smoky, crisp contrast to the tender lobster meat.

H3: Lemon Herb Rice

Fluffy rice with a hint of lemon and herbs keeps the meal light yet satisfying.

H3: Garlic Bread

Because extra garlic and butter is never a bad idea.

H3: Caesar Salad

A fresh, crunchy salad with a tangy dressing brings a nice balance to your plate.

H3: Roasted Broccolini

Its slight bitterness cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully.

H3: Mango and Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding

For dessert, keep it refreshing and tropical with this vibrant option: Mango and Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding

H3: Fried Vegetable Egg Rolls

Serve as an appetizer for a gourmet surf-and-turf experience: Fried Vegetable Egg Rolls

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight before preparing.

2. How do I know when the lobster is done?
The meat will turn opaque and white, and it should feel firm to the touch but not rubbery.

3. Can I grill these instead of broiling?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes with the meat side up. Baste with garlic butter while grilling.

4. What kind of butter is best?
Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. High-quality butter makes a noticeable difference.

5. Is it okay to add more seasonings or cheese?
Yes! You can sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Customize to your liking.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it anytime.
Let me know in the comments how your lobster tails turned out. Did you broil or grill them? Any fun twists you added?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something extraordinary. With the right technique and a flavorful garlic butter, you can serve up a dish that feels five-star with minimal effort.

For more incredible dinner ideas, desserts, and elegant sides, explore our full recipe collection or follow along on Pinterest at Meals We Share.

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