Introduction:
Few dishes scream luxury and indulgence quite like lobster tails baked with garlic butter. This recipe combines the sweetness of tender lobster meat with the rich, aromatic flavor of garlic-infused butter. While lobster is often associated with fine dining, baking it at home is surprisingly simple and makes for a show-stopping dinner. Perfect for holidays, anniversaries, or when you want to impress guests, this dish balances elegance with ease, bringing restaurant-quality flavors straight to your table.
Ingredients:
4 lobster tails (about 4–6 oz / 115–170 g each)
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the lobster tails
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of each lobster shell lengthwise to the tail, stopping just before the fins.
Gently pull the shell apart and lift the meat, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base. This creates the classic “butterfly” presentation.
2. Make the garlic butter
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Reserve 2–3 tablespoons for serving.
3. Brush and bake
Place prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Brush generously with garlic butter.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, depending on size, until the meat is opaque and slightly firm. (Internal temperature should reach 140–145°F / 60–63°C.)
4. Garnish and serve
Remove from oven and drizzle with reserved garlic butter.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips & Variations
Broiler method: For a charred finish, broil the lobster tails for the last 2 minutes.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the butter.
Herb upgrade: Mix in fresh thyme, basil, or tarragon for a more complex flavor.
Surf & turf: Pair with a juicy steak for a restaurant-style meal at home.
Make it creamy: Whisk a tablespoon of Parmesan into the garlic butter for a richer sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
Serve over pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs for a complete seafood dinner.
A chilled glass of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Champagne complements lobster beautifully.
Conclusion
Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity. With minimal effort, you can create a luxurious dish that looks stunning and tastes even better. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas dinner, or just a night when you want to treat yourself, this recipe guarantees a flavorful, buttery, and unforgettable seafood experience.