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Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

A simple yet luxurious dinner featuring buttery, garlicky lobster that feels like a special occasion while being quick and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Lobster Tails
  • 4 pieces lobster tails (6 to 8 ounces each) thawed if frozen, shells cut down the middle for easy access
For the Garlic Butter
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter for that silky, indulgent finish
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced use more if you adore garlic
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice balances the richness with a bright zip
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional but enhances the flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for color and a fresh herbal lift
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika adds warmth and a hint of color
  • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a grill to medium-high. Rinse lobster tails and pat dry.
  2. Using kitchen shears, cut along the top of the shell and pry meat out slightly so it rests on top of the shell.
Make the Garlic Butter
  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and gently cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  2. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Lobster
  1. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet or grill pan. Brush the garlic butter generously over the exposed meat, reserving a tablespoon for finishing.
  2. For oven: bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm with a slight spring.
  3. For grill: grill meat-side down for 4 minutes, then flip and cook meat-side up for another 3 to 4 minutes, brushing with more butter as it cooks.
Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from heat, brush with the reserved butter, and squeeze fresh lemon over the top.
  2. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Store cooled lobster meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently. For freezing, store cooked lobster meat in a freezer-safe bag with some butter for protection.