Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails

Tender, juicy lobster tails coated in rich garlic butter and bright lemon make an elegant dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The lobster is broiled until perfectly cooked, then finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for a restaurant-style meal at home.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 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 of each lobster shell, stopping near the tail fan. Gently loosen the meat and lift it slightly over the shell.
2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the lobster: Brush the garlic butter generously over the lobster meat, making sure it is well coated.
4. Bake: Place the lobster tails meat-side up on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 10–14 minutes, depending on their size.
5. Check for doneness: The lobster meat should be opaque, firm, and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as lobster can become tough and rubbery.
6. Broil for extra color: For a beautifully golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
7. Finish: Brush with any remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips for Perfect Lobster Tails

• Don’t overcook the lobster—the cooking time depends on the size of the tails.
• Fresh lemon juice gives the garlic butter a brighter flavor.
• Basting the lobster during cooking helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
• For extra richness, serve with additional warm garlic butter for dipping.

What to Serve With

Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails pair beautifully with:

• Garlic butter pasta
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Steamed asparagus
• Roasted vegetables
• Rice pilaf
• Crusty bread
• Fresh green salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–14 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Servings: 4