Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

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Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Description

Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are an elegant yet simple seafood dish perfect for special occasions or indulgent dinners. Tender, sweet lobster meat is brushed with a luscious garlic butter sauce, then baked to perfection until golden and succulent. The result is a restaurant-quality dish you can make easily at home—rich, buttery, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4 lobster tails (about 5–6 oz each)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

  2. Prepare the Lobster Tails:
    Using kitchen scissors, cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise down to the tail, then gently pull the shell apart to expose the meat. Lift the meat slightly over the shell and rest it on top.

  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
    In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

  4. Brush the Lobster Meat:
    Brush half of the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat.

  5. Bake:
    Place the lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly browned on top.

  6. Broil (Optional):
    For a golden finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.

  7. Garnish and Serve:
    Brush the remaining garlic butter over the cooked lobster, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • If using frozen lobster tails, make sure to thaw them completely before baking.

  • The lobster is done when the internal temperature reaches 140–145°F (60°C).

  • You can substitute clarified butter for an even richer taste.

Tips

  • Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, garlic pasta, or grilled vegetables.

  • Avoid overbaking; lobster becomes rubbery when overcooked.

  • Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

  • Use fresh garlic and lemon for the best flavor.

Servings

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Fat: 22 g

  • Saturated Fat: 13 g

  • Carbohydrates: 2 g

  • Fiber: 0 g

  • Sugar: 0 g

  • Cholesterol: 155 mg

  • Sodium: 450 mg

Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Lobster is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety.

  • Rich in Omega-3s: Promotes heart and brain health.

  • Low in Calories: Despite being indulgent, lobster is relatively low in calories.

  • Packed with Vitamins & Minerals: Provides vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium for immune support and energy metabolism.

Q&A

Q1: Can I use lobster tails from frozen?
Yes, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q2: Can I grill instead of bake?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, basting with garlic butter.

Q3: How do I know when lobster is cooked perfectly?
The meat should be opaque white with no translucent spots, and it should spring back when pressed gently.

Q4: What’s the best butter for this recipe?
Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness and blend well with garlic and lemon.

Q5: Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare the garlic butter and prep the tails earlier, but bake just before serving for the best texture.

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