If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to something truly special, nothing says luxury quite like Garlic Butter Lobster Tails. With rich, tender meat bathed in garlicky lemon butter and a subtle kick of smoked paprika, this recipe transforms any dinner into a fine-dining experience—without the restaurant price tag.

Perfect for holidays, anniversaries, romantic dinners, or even when you’re simply craving something indulgent, these broiled lobster tails are surprisingly easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. The secret? A flavorful garlic butter sauce and a broiling method that ensures perfect texture and golden tops every time.

Why You’ll Love This Lobster Tail Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, yet feels restaurant-quality.

• Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of fresh, flavorful staples.

• Elegant Presentation: Butterflied lobster looks stunning with minimal effort.

• Customizable: Add spice, switch up the herbs, or pair it with your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 lobster tails (6–8 oz each) – fresh or thawed if previously frozen

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted – the base of our rich garlic sauce

• 3 garlic cloves, minced – for that bold, aromatic flavor

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – to balance the richness

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for color and subtle heat

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for a vibrant finish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Sharp kitchen shears (for butterflying lobster tails)

• Baking sheet

• Aluminum foil

• Small mixing bowl

• Pastry brush (for applying butter sauce)

• Oven set to broil

• Tongs (optional, for easier handling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Lobster Tails

Preheat your oven to broil and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the top heating element.

Using kitchen shears, cut along the top shell of each lobster tail, lengthwise. Stop just before the tail fan. Gently pull the lobster meat upward, separating it from the shell while leaving the base attached. Rest the meat on top of the shell. This “butterflying” creates that iconic, elevated presentation.

Pro Tip: Pat the meat dry with a paper towel. This helps the butter sauce adhere better and promotes even browning.

2️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

3️⃣ Season the Lobster

Place the prepared lobster tails on a foil-lined baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, coat the meat generously with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure every crevice is covered for maximum flavor.

4️⃣ Broil the Lobster Tails

Place the lobster tails under the broiler for 8–10 minutes, brushing with more garlic butter halfway through. The meat should be opaque, tender, and slightly golden on top. Be careful not to overcook—it’s quick!

5️⃣ Garnish and Serve

Remove the lobster tails from the oven and brush with any remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

Optional Pairings

Lobster is the star of the plate, but these side dishes and drinks turn your meal into a full experience:

Side Dishes:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic herb rice

• Roasted asparagus or broccolini

• Caesar or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Buttered corn on the cob

Drinks:

• Crisp white wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio

• Champagne or sparkling rosé for a celebratory feel

• Light, citrusy cocktails like a lemon basil spritzer or gin and tonic

• Sparkling water with lemon and mint

Recipe Variations & Tips

• Add Heat: Want a spicy kick? Add 1/4 tsp cayenne or chili flakes to the butter.

• Make It Herby: Try fresh tarragon, dill, or chives in place of parsley.

• Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the tails before broiling for a crusty finish.

• Grill It: Prefer the grill? Prepare the same way and grill meat-side up for 5–6 minutes with the lid closed.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate:

Place leftover lobster meat in an airtight container and store for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Reheat:

To avoid rubbery texture, gently reheat in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of butter or lemon juice. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Freeze:

While best enjoyed fresh, cooked lobster can be frozen. Wrap tightly and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, just thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold water before starting the recipe.

How do I know when lobster is cooked?

The meat should turn opaque and white, and the internal temperature should be 130°F–140°F. Overcooked lobster will become rubbery.

Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the garlic butter mixture up to 2 days in advance. Gently reheat before using.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning works well as a substitute.

How many people does this serve?

This recipe makes 4 lobster tails, which is typically 4 servings, depending on the size of the tails and sides served.

Who This Recipe Is For

• Seafood lovers looking for a simple yet decadent main dish

• Home chefs aiming to wow guests with minimal stress

• Anyone celebrating a special occasion like Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, or birthdays

• Foodies on a budget who want a restaurant-quality dish without the markup

If you’ve ever been intimidated by cooking lobster at home, this recipe is your foolproof gateway to seafood confidence.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

These Garlic Butter Lobster Tails bring gourmet flavor to your table with surprising ease. Tender, buttery, and bursting with garlicky citrus flavor, they’re guaranteed to impress whether it’s a dinner date, family feast, or solo treat.

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Let me know if you’d like to turn this into a printable card for your blog or pair it with a romantic dinner menu idea!