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Broiled Lobster Tail

A quick and indulgent lobster tail recipe that's perfect for special occasions, ready in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lobster Tails
  • 4 pieces lobster tails (6–8 ounces each) Fresh or thawed frozen; choose firm, fragrant meat.
Butter Mixture
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Brush for richness and gloss.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Keeps the meat moist and helps broiling color.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Adds a warm, savory note.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For gentle smokiness and color. Substitute sweet paprika for milder taste.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish; zest for extra zing.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Finishes with color and freshness.
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • pinch cayenne pepper (optional) For a little heat.
  • to taste nutritional yeast (optional) For a subtle cheesy note (dairy-free).

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your broiler and set the oven rack 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the lobster tails: using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the shell lengthwise and pry the shell open just enough to lift the meat out and rest it on top of the shell.
  3. Pat the lobster meat dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne in a small bowl. Brush half of this mixture generously over the lobster meat.
  2. Broil for 6–8 minutes, watching closely — the meat should become opaque and slightly golden at the edges. The internal temperature should reach 140–145°F.
  3. In the last 30 seconds, brush with the remaining butter mixture and return to the broiler for a glossy finish.
  4. Remove, sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest, and let rest for a minute.

Notes

For a garlic-herb twist, add rosemary and Dijon mustard to the butter. For a lighter version, use clarified butter and replace half the butter with Greek yogurt in a lemon-herb sauce for dipping.