Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Lobster tails are the ultimate indulgence, and nothing elevates them like a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these broiled garlic butter lobster tails will bring restaurant-quality elegance to your table in under 30 minutes.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything from butterflying lobster tails to cooking them to perfection and making the most delicious garlic lemon butter sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes
Perfectly Juicy Lobster – Never rubbery or dry
Rich Garlic Butter Flavor – A simple yet luxurious sauce
Better than a Restaurant – Save money and enjoy gourmet flavors at home
The Secret to Perfect Lobster Tails
The best way to cook lobster tails is by broiling, which locks in flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. If you’re new to working with lobster, learning how to butterfly a lobster tail is key to making a dish that looks as amazing as it tastes.
For those who love seafood, these garlic butter lobster tails are a fantastic alternative to traditional surf and turf. If you’re looking for another mouthwatering seafood recipe, check out this guide on how to cook lobster with creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Lobster Tails
- 4 lobster tails (5-6 ounces each)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Lobster Tails
Before cooking, it’s essential to butterfly the lobster tails. This method ensures even cooking and an impressive presentation.
How to Butterfly a Lobster Tail
- Cut the Shell – Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell, stopping at the base of the tail. Snip through the top portion of the meat as you go.
- Crack the Ribs – Flip the tail over and gently crack the ribs in the center to help open the shell.
- Expose the Meat – Loosen the meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Lift the meat and rest it over the shell.
Now your lobster tails are ready for broiling!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Lobster Tails
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix:
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- Stir until well combined.
2. Broil the Lobster Tails
- Preheat the oven to broil (high heat).
- Place butterflied lobster tails on a baking sheet, shell side down.
- Brush marinade over the top of each lobster tail.
- Dot with butter – Place small pieces of butter on top of each tail.
- Broil for 10-11 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and reaches 145°F.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Drain drippings from the baking sheet into a small saucepan.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter and simmer until melted.
- Pour over lobster tails or serve as a dipping sauce.
How Long to Broil Lobster Tails?
Cooking time depends on the size of your lobster tails:
- Small (3-4 oz) – 6 to 8 minutes
- Medium (5-6 oz) – 10 to 11 minutes
- Large (7-9 oz) – 12 to 15 minutes
The lobster is done when:
The meat is opaque and white
shell turns bright red
internal temperature is 145°F
Best Side Dishes for Lobster Tails
For a complete meal, pair your garlic butter lobster tails with:
- Garlic butter steak potatoes skillet – A perfect surf and turf pairing!
- Creamy mashed potatoes – A rich, buttery side dish
- Roasted asparagus – A fresh, healthy option
- Risotto – Luxuriously creamy and satisfying
Wine Pairings for Lobster Tails
Pair your lobster tails with the perfect wine:
White Wines: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling
Sparkling Wine: Champagne or Prosecco
Non-Alcoholic Option: Lemon-infused sparkling water
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking – Lobster becomes rubbery if cooked too long.
Skipping the butterfly step – Helps with even cooking.
Not using fresh garlic – Gives the butter sauce a rich, authentic taste.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. How Do You Know When Lobster is Done?
Lobster is fully cooked when the meat is opaque and white, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
2. Can I Use Frozen Lobster Tails?
Yes! Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
3. What’s the Best Butter for Lobster Tails?
Unsalted butter works best, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
4. Can I Grill Instead of Broil?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, basting with garlic butter sauce.
5. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.
Final Thoughts
These garlic butter lobster tails are incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just indulging in a luxurious meal at home, this recipe guarantees tender, juicy lobster with a rich, buttery sauce.