Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
If you’re craving a seafood dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, this Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is your new best friend. It’s rich, buttery, and packed with bright, garlicky lemon flavor that perfectly complements the sweet lobster meat. Whether you’re treating yourself on a special occasion or impressing guests, this recipe turns simple lobster tails into a restaurant-quality feast with minimal fuss and maximum wow.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple yet vibrant is the key to this Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe. Each component, from the fresh parsley to the sharp Dijon mustard, plays a part in elevating the flavors and delivering that perfect balance of richness and freshness.
- 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each): Choose fresh or thawed tails for the best texture and sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley (very finely chopped, plus more for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the dish.
- 2 garlic cloves (pressed): Infuses the butter sauce with bold, aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tangy kick that livens up the butter sauce.
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warming spice.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil: Helps meld the marinade ingredients and adds a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided): The star ingredient that turns this recipe into a luscious garlic lemon butter delight.
How to Make Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
Step 1: Preparing and Butterflying the Lobster Tails
First, take your kitchen scissors and carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping when you reach the tail’s base. Snip through the top portion of the lobster meat as you go, which will help you open it up without damaging the delicate flesh. Then, flip the tail over and gently crack the ribs on the back with your fingers—this loosens the shell and makes it easier to work with. Next, carefully open the shell, loosen the meat, and lift it while keeping it attached at the base. Rest the meat over the shell so it sits beautifully on top for even cooking and presentation.
Step 2: Preparing to Broil the Lobster Tails
Position your oven rack in the upper third or center spot, ensuring the lobster meat will be at least six inches from the heating element. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Getting the timing and placement just right helps your lobster cook evenly and develop that golden, slightly caramelized finish without drying out.
Step 3: Making the Garlic Lemon Butter Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh parsley, pressed garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. This vibrant marinade is infused with bright citrus and savory garlic, setting the stage for the lobster tails to soak in incredible flavor.
Step 4: Arranging and Cooking the Lobster Tails
Place the butterflied lobster tails in a roasting pan, shell side down. Spoon the marinade evenly over each tail, making sure every morsel is coated. Dot each tail with half a tablespoon of butter in small pieces to anchor that luscious richness. Broil for 10 to 11 minutes, adjusting for the size of your tails: the lobster should be opaque, snowy white in the center, and register 145˚F with a thermometer for safe, juicy perfection.
Step 5: Finishing with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
When the tails come out of the oven, carefully drain the flavorful drippings into a small saucepan. Add the remaining butter, bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat. This silky garlic lemon butter sauce can be poured over the lobster tails or served alongside as a dipping sauce, adding an extra layer of indulgent flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top after cooking adds a vibrant green catchlight and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich butter sauce. A thin lemon wedge on the side offers guests the option to add extra citrus brightness if they wish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe shines next to simple, complementary sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. These sides provide textural contrast and let the lobster’s richness truly stand out. A buttery garlic bread can’t be beat for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the lobster tails on a bed of sea salt or crushed ice for a coastal vibe. You can also arrange the lobster meat fanned out artistically over the shells for a dramatic look. Adding edible flowers or microgreens offers delicate pops of color that impress guests visually as much as the taste delights their palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover lobster tails should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They keep well for up to two days without losing much flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you wish to freeze cooked lobster tails, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, they will maintain quality for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the meat tender.
Reheating
Reheat leftover lobster gently—ideally by steaming or warming in a low oven—to avoid drying the meat. You can also spoon a little of the garlic lemon butter sauce over the lobster before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen lobster tails work wonderfully for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing so they cook evenly and the texture stays tender.
What if I don’t have a broiler—can I bake the lobster tails instead?
You can bake the lobster tails at 425˚F for about 12 to 15 minutes, but broiling gives a better caramelized finish on the meat. Keep a close eye if you bake to avoid overcooking.
Is it okay to add extra garlic or lemon juice?
Yes, feel free to adjust the garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste. Just remember that the garlic lemon butter sauce is what amplifies the flavors, so balancing these ingredients is key to not overpower the sweet lobster meat.
How do I know when the lobster tails are done?
The lobster is done when the meat turns opaque white and reaches an internal temperature of 145˚F. The shells will also brighten in color. Avoid overcooking, which makes lobster tough and rubbery.
Can I prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
You can make the marinade ahead but it’s best to prepare the final garlic lemon butter sauce fresh after cooking to keep the butter silky and the flavors vibrant.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm culinary hug. It’s straightforward enough to make on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at your next celebration. Trust me—once you try it, this dish will quickly become one of your cherished go-to seafood favorites. So preheat your oven and get ready to delight your taste buds with something truly special!
Print
Lobster Tail with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This broiled lobster tail recipe features succulent lobster meat bathed in a flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce. The lobster tails are butterflied for an elegant presentation, marinated with fresh parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then broiled to perfection. Served with a rich garlic lemon butter sauce made from the roasting pan drippings, this dish is ideal for an impressive yet easy seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Lobster Tails
- 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each)
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley (very finely chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 2 garlic cloves (pressed)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare and Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the base and snipping through the top portion of the meat. Then flip the tail over and crack the ribs in the center on the back side to help open the shell. Gently open the shell with your thumbs and fingers and loosen the meat from the shell, removing the vein if present. Lift the meat while keeping it attached at the base, then press the shell closed and set the lobster meat on top of the shell, exposing most of the meat.
- Preheat the Oven for Broiling: Place an oven rack in the upper third or center position so the lobster tails will be approximately 6 inches from the heating element. Preheat your oven to broil on high.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, pressed garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Arrange Lobster Tails for Broiling: Place the butterflied lobster tails into a roasting pan (9×13 or 8×12-inch). Evenly divide the marinade over the tops of each tail and dot each with 1/2 tablespoon of the unsalted butter, cut into smaller pieces.
- Broil the Lobster Tails: Broil the lobster tails on high heat for 10 to 11 minutes, or adjust based on size, until the meat is opaque and white in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F using an instant-read thermometer.
- Prepare the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: Drain the drippings from the roasting pan into a small saucepan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the lobster tails or serve in ramekins as a dipping sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the broiled lobster tails to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Ensure your lobster tails are fully thawed if using frozen before starting to butterfly.
- Adjust broiling times according to lobster tail size; larger tails may need a bit longer cooking time.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to achieve perfectly cooked lobster meat at 145°F.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice if needed, though fresh is recommended for best flavor.
- The garlic lemon butter sauce can be made ahead and warmed before serving if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
