Lobster tails are one of the most elegant yet surprisingly simple seafood dishes you can prepare at home.
This recipe focuses on creating tender, juicy lobster tails with a buttery, aromatic finish that highlights the natural sweetness of the meat.
With just a few fresh ingredients and the right technique, you can cook lobster like a professional chef.
Lobster Tail Recipe
This lobster tail recipe uses a classic broiling method to ensure perfectly cooked meat that remains tender, moist, and flavorful.
The lobster tails are split open to expose the meat, which helps them cook evenly and present beautifully.
A garlic butter mixture infused with lemon and paprika adds depth, brightness, and a subtle smokiness to enhance the lobster’s natural flavor.
This recipe is versatile and pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple salad.
It is ideal for date nights, celebrations, and special occasions where you want a luxurious dish that still feels approachable and easy to master.
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the lobster tails for broiling. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fan.
Gently separate the shell to expose the meat, then lift the lobster meat out of the shell while keeping the base attached.
Allow the meat to rest on top of the shell—this helps with even cooking and creates a beautiful presentation.
Rinse the tails lightly, pat them dry with paper towels, and season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Next, prepare the garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and paprika.
Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended.
Brush this mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat, making sure to coat every surface. Some of the butter will drip into the shell, which helps keep the lobster moist as it cooks.
Set your oven to broil on high and adjust the rack so the lobster tails sit about 6–7 inches below the heating element. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Slide the sheet into the oven and broil the lobster tails for 6–10 minutes, depending on their size.
The meat should turn opaque and white, with the top lightly caramelized. As a general rule, lobster cooks in about 1 minute per ounce.
Be careful not to overcook, as lobster meat toughens quickly.
Once the tails are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and immediately brush on any remaining garlic butter for added richness.
Allow the lobster to rest for 2 minutes so the juices settle into the meat.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. The bright acidity of lemon complements the buttery lobster perfectly.
Conclusion
This lobster tail recipe delivers a luxurious seafood experience with minimal effort. The combination of freshly prepared garlic butter, high-heat broiling, and careful seasoning ensures tender, flavorful lobster every time.
Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a beautifully cooked lobster tail that’s both elegant and satisfying.