Print

Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tail Recipe for an Easy Elegant Meal

garlic butter baked lobster tail - featured image

This garlic butter baked lobster tail recipe is quick, easy, and elegant, delivering tender, juicy lobster meat infused with rich garlic butter and fresh lemon. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lobster tails, thawed if frozen (68 ounces each)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (to brush on lobster shells)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top center of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open to expose the meat, then lift the meat up and lay it on top of the shell (piggyback style).
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
  4. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter. Brush olive oil on the shells to help them crisp up.
  5. Arrange the lobster tails on a rimmed baking sheet, spaced apart for even heat circulation.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the lobster meat is opaque, firm but tender, and the butter is bubbling and slightly golden.
  7. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for a lightly caramelized finish, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving with extra lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid rubbery texture; check for opaque, firm but tender meat that flakes easily. Soften butter before mixing for best spreadability. Brushing olive oil on shells helps them crisp and look appetizing. Garlic butter can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Optional broil step adds caramelized finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, baked lobster, easy elegant meal, seafood recipe, quick dinner, special occasion, garlic butter lobster