Garlic Butter Baked Lobster

This garlic butter baked lobster tails recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to bring a touch of elegance to the table without fuss. It delivers rich, savory flavors with a bright lemony finish while staying simple enough for a weeknight treat or special occasion.

I whipped this up once on a whim when craving something fancy and it quickly became a favorite for date nights at home

Ingredients

• Lobster tails: choose fresh or previously frozen lobster tails about four to six ounces each They should smell clean and ocean fresh to ensure quality
• Butter: is essential here for that rich base Use unsalted to better control salt balance
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic offers the best intense aroma and flavor
• Lemon juice and zest: brighten and balance the richness Pick lemons that are firm with vibrant yellow skin
• Paprika: adds mild smoky warmth Pick a high-quality sweet paprika for best flavor
• Salt: enhances all the tastes A simple but crucial detail
• Black pepper: freshly ground for added spicy notes
• Fresh parsley: adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit that is two hundred twenty degrees Celsius Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking

Prepare Lobster Tails:

Use kitchen shears to cut down the top of each lobster tail shell lengthwise toward the base This allows the lobster meat to be gently lifted and rested above the shell while still attached This step helps the flavors penetrate and makes for a beautiful presentation

Make Garlic Butter Mixture:

In a bowl combine melted unsalted butter with minced garlic lemon juice and lemon zest Add paprika salt and freshly ground black pepper Brush this mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat This coats each piece for maximum flavor impact

Bake:

Arrange the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet Place them in the oven Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the lobster meat turns opaque and is firm to the touch This means it’s perfectly cooked but not overdone

Broil:

Switch the oven to broil and broil the lobster tails for one to two minutes This step gives a lovely golden-brown top on the lobster meat without drying it out

Finish and Serve:

Brush the lobster meat with extra melted butter Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top Add lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the finished dish This adds freshness and a second layer of citrus brightness

I love how the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter making every bite bright and indulgent. One time my family gathered for a casual weekend dinner and the lobsters were the star conversation piece as everyone eagerly licked their fingers

Storage tips

Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently in a low oven to prevent overcooking and drying out Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the meat

Ingredient swaps

You can swap paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor or cayenne for a bit of heat Garlic powder can be substituted if fresh garlic is unavailable but fresh always delivers better aroma Use clarified butter instead of regular butter to avoid burning while baking

Serving ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad and roasted potatoes for an easy complete meal Garlic bread pairs beautifully absorbing some of the lingering garlic butter sauce Serve with steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans for color and balance

This lobster tails recipe combines elegance and simplicity for a special meal that is easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prepare lobster tails for baking?

Use kitchen shears to cut lengthwise along the shell’s top, then gently lift the meat to rest on the shell, ensuring even cooking and better butter coverage.

→ What ingredients enhance the garlic butter mixture?

A blend of melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper brings a balanced depth of flavor.

→ What oven temperature is ideal for baking lobster tails?

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for a quick bake that locks in moisture while cooking the meat evenly.

→ Why broil lobster tails after baking?

Broiling for 1–2 minutes adds a golden crust on top, amplifying flavor and giving a visually appealing finish.

→ How should I serve the baked lobster tails?

Brush with extra melted butter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve alongside lemon wedges for a fresh citrus touch.