How to Cook Lobster Tails Recipe
Introduction
Lobster tails are a luxurious and delicious treat that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. With a few key ingredients and easy techniques, you can enjoy tender, flavorful lobster bursting with buttery garlic goodness.
Ingredients
- 6 lobster tails (cold water preferred)
- Seasoning (cajun, Old Bay, or paprika)
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: To butterfly lobster tails, use kitchen shears to cut down the center of the top shell, stopping at the tail fin. Gently pry the shell halves apart with your fingers and loosen the meat from the shell while keeping it attached at the fin.
- Step 2: Lift the meat up and close the shell halves below it so the meat rests on top of the shell. Remove the dark vein if visible, rinse with cold water, and pat dry.
- Step 3: Melt 4 tablespoons butter and stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Brush the garlic butter over the lobster tails, then season lightly with your choice of cajun, Old Bay, or paprika.
- Step 4: Choose your cooking method and cook the lobster tails carefully to avoid overcooking. Pull them at an internal temperature of 140°F for the best texture.
- Broil: Preheat the broiler. Brush tails with garlic butter and season. Broil for 7-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches about 140°F.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F. Brush tails with garlic butter and season. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the lobster reaches 140-145°F.
- Grill: Grill at medium-high heat, cut-side up first for 4-6 minutes, then flip and baste with butter while cooking for another 4-6 minutes.
- Step 5: Serve the lobster tails brushed with additional garlic butter, reserving some for dipping. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips & Variations
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, ensuring the lobster meat remains tender and juicy.
- Try swapping cajun seasoning for smoked paprika or Old Bay for different flavor profiles.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be used, but fresh adds the best flavor.
Storage
Store cooked lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or steam briefly to avoid drying out the meat. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
Yes, frozen lobster tails work well. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.
How do I know when the lobster tails are cooked?
The lobster meat should be opaque and firm but not rubbery. Using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 140°F ensures perfectly cooked lobster tails.
Print
How to Cook Lobster Tails Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This recipe teaches you how to prepare succulent lobster tails with a flavorful garlic butter seasoning and your choice of Cajun, Old Bay, or paprika spices. Featuring detailed instructions on how to butterfly lobster tails and three different cooking methods—broiling, baking, or grilling—this dish delivers tender, perfectly cooked lobster meat that’s ideal for a special occasion or gourmet meal at home.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 6 lobster tails (preferably cold water lobster tails)
Seasoning & Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Seasoning: Cajun, Old Bay, or paprika, to taste
Instructions
- Butterfly Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry apart the shell halves with your fingers, then carefully loosen the meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the tail end.
- Prepare the Meat: Lift the lobster meat so it rests on top of the split shell halves. Check for the dark vein and remove it if visible. Rinse the meat with cold water and pat dry thoroughly.
- Make Garlic Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Brush this garlic butter generously over the lobster tails, then season lightly with your choice of Cajun, Old Bay, or paprika seasoning.
- Cook Lobster Tails: Choose your preferred cooking method:
- Broiling (Recommended): Preheat the broiler. Place the prepared lobster tails under the broiler and cook for 7-10 minutes, brushing with additional garlic butter as needed. Remove when the internal temperature reaches approximately 140°F to avoid rubbery meat.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet, brush with garlic butter, and season. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F.
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Place lobster tails cut-side up and grill for 4-6 minutes. Flip, baste with garlic butter, and continue grilling for another 4-6 minutes until done.
- Serve: Brush lobster tails with any remaining garlic butter, reserving some for dipping. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook lobster tails as they can become tough and rubbery; aim for an internal temperature around 140°F.
- You can substitute seasonings based on your preference—paprika adds a smoky flavor while Cajun or Old Bay bring a spicy kick.
- Butterfly method helps the lobster cook evenly and makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Using cold water lobster tails is preferred for better flavor and texture.
- Leftover lobster tails can be stored chilled and used in salads or pasta dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lobster tails, garlic butter, seafood recipe, broiled lobster, baked lobster, grilled lobster, easy lobster recipe, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, seafood dinner
