Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

I still remember the first time I tried making garlic butter lobster tails at home, the aroma filling the kitchen and turning a simple dinner into a special occasion.

One evening, unexpected guests arrived and I pulled out this recipe. The broiled lobster tails, glazed with rich garlic butter, saved the night and everyone asked for the recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails (5–6 oz each): Fresh or thawed from frozen, I find these provide the perfect size and sweetness to this dish
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Unsalted gives you full control over seasoning and richness
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth that's essential here
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the rich butter sauce beautifully
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh burst of citrus without watering down the sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: For that pop of color and herby freshness
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth that lifts the flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground gives you more punch than pre-ground
• Lemon wedges: For garnish and that extra burst of acidity at the table
• Extra fresh parsley, chopped: To sprinkle on top for a finishing touch

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven broiler to high and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup; the anticipation starts with the warmth filling your kitchen.

Prepare the Lobster:

Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the top shell lengthwise but stop just before the tail fin. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the sweet meat, lifting it above while keeping it attached at the base — it looks stunning when cooked this way.

Mix the Garlic Butter:

In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, zest, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. The smell will be heavenly, a preview of the treat to come.

Brush and Broil:

Place the lobster tails on the foil-lined baking sheet and brush them generously with half the garlic butter sauce. Broil for 8 to 10 minutes until the meat turns opaque and slightly golden, basting once halfway through with more garlic butter. Keep an eye on them; the scent signals when they're perfect.

Finish and Serve:

Remove lobster tails from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter sauce for extra richness. Serve immediately garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley — each bite feels like a celebration.

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This dish became more than just food the night we celebrated a small but meaningful anniversary at home, turning an ordinary evening into a memory marked by warmth and laughter.

Keeping It Fresh

Always use fresh lobster tails for the best texture and flavor. If frozen, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight to retain moisture and sweetness. Fresh ingredients make the butter sauce truly shine.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair the lobster tails with steamed veggies or a light salad to balance richness. Crusty bread is a must to soak up every bit of garlic butter sauce left on the plate.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once when unexpected guests arrived, this recipe came to the rescue with minimal prep but maximum wow factor. It's a reliable crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent and thoughtful.

• Always have garlic and butter stocked for spontaneous lobster nights
• Rest the lobster meat on top of the shell for the best presentation
• Don't forget the lemon wedges — they brighten every bite

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Thanks for spending time in the kitchen with me on this one. Here's to many delicious lobster dinners ahead!

Frequently asked questions about this recipe

→ How do you prepare lobster tails for cooking?

Cut the shell lengthwise with kitchen shears, stop before the tail fin, then gently lift the meat and rest it above the shell for even cooking.

→ What gives the garlic butter sauce its smoky flavor?

Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth to the butter sauce combined with fresh garlic and lemon.

→ How long should lobster tails be broiled?

Broil the lobster tails 8 to 10 minutes until the meat turns opaque and slightly golden, basting halfway through.

→ Can I add heat to the garlic butter sauce?

Yes, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added for a gentle kick without overpowering the flavors.

→ What sides pair well with this lobster preparation?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread are excellent choices to accompany and soak up the garlic butter sauce.

→ How can I tell when lobster meat is fully cooked?

The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch, avoiding any translucency for safe and tender results.