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

Scale

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