Tender, juicy lobster tails topped with buttery garlic, Parmesan cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs make this an impressive yet surprisingly easy seafood dinner. The lobster cooks quickly under high heat, creating a golden, flavorful crust while keeping the meat tender and succulent.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the lobster: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the base. Gently pull the shell apart and lift the lobster meat slightly over the shell.
2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the topping: In another bowl, combine the Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley.
4. Add the butter: Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Add the crispy topping: Press the Parmesan-panko mixture gently over the top of each lobster tail.
6. Bake: Arrange the lobster tails on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 12–15 minutes, depending on their size. The meat should be opaque and firm, and the topping should be golden and crisp.
7. Broil for extra crispiness: If desired, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so the Parmesan topping doesn’t burn.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra melted garlic butter if desired.

Tips for the Best Lobster Tails

• Don’t overcook the lobster, as the meat can quickly become tough and rubbery.
• Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor and browning.
• Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier topping than regular breadcrumbs.
• Keep a close eye on the lobster under the broiler because the topping can brown very quickly.
• Serve immediately for the best texture.

What to Serve With

These lobster tails pair wonderfully with:

• Garlic butter pasta
• Roasted potatoes
• Steamed asparagus
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Green salad
• Corn on the cob
• Lemon rice

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