Succulent Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Make restaurant-quality baked lobster tails at home with this rich and flavorful garlic butter lobster tail recipe! Perfect for a special dinner, romantic date night, or holiday meal, these oven-baked lobster tails are brushed with a garlicky lemon butter sauce, then roasted to tender perfection with a golden paprika finish.
Best For:
Garlic butter seafood recipes
Lobster tail in oven
Easy lobster tail recipe
Romantic dinner ideas
Holiday seafood meals (Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day)
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster Tails:
4 lobster tails (fresh or thawed)
4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
How to Cook Lobster Tails in the Oven:
1. Prep the Lobster Tails:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Using kitchen scissors, cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise (without cutting the bottom).
Gently lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell, keeping it attached at the base for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake the Lobster Tails:
Place lobster tails on a baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish.
Brush the garlic butter generously over the exposed lobster meat.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the lobster meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C).
Optionally baste with additional garlic butter during cooking.
4. Optional Broil for a Golden Finish:
For a lightly charred, golden top, broil on high for 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and extra melted butter on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips:
Always thaw frozen lobster tails completely before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
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