There's nothing quite like the indulgence of tender, buttery lobster tails drenched in garlic-infused goodness. This simple yet elegant dish transforms any meal into a special occasion, whether you're celebrating a romantic dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering.
I first fell in love with this recipe while searching for an easy yet restaurant-worthy way to enjoy lobster without the hassle of cracking shells. The rich, garlicky butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, making every bite irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
Get ready to experience lobster in the most flavorful way possible. This recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to prepare.
First off, it's surprisingly quick. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked lobster tails on the table in under 20 minutes.
It's also foolproof. No need for fancy equipment or complicated techniques—just a sharp knife, a baking dish, and a handful of pantry staples.
The flavor is out of this world. The combination of rich butter, fragrant garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon brings out the best in the tender lobster meat.
Perfect for any occasion, this dish feels like an expensive restaurant meal but can be made right at home, saving you both time and money.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A few high-quality ingredients come together to create a truly decadent dish.
The lobster tails are the star of the show. Fresh or frozen work equally well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Look for lobster tails with a vibrant shell and firm flesh for the best results.
Butter is what makes this dish rich and luxurious. Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning, and melt it gently to keep its smooth, velvety texture.
Fresh garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor. Minced finely, it infuses the butter with an irresistible taste that pairs beautifully with the lobster.
A touch of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter, while a sprinkle of paprika enhances the color and imparts a subtle smoky depth.
For extra flavor, a dash of parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast, making the dish look as beautiful as it tastes.
How To Make This Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Making these garlic butter lobster tails is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Start by prepping the lobster tails. Using kitchen shears, cut a straight line down the top of each shell, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull apart the shell and lift the meat, resting it on top while keeping it attached at the base.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, paprika, and a pinch of salt for a perfectly balanced butter sauce.
Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter generously over the meat, making sure to coat every crevice for maximum flavor.
Broil the lobster tails in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking, as lobster can become tough quickly.
Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to keep the lobster meat separate from any sauce to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
For longer storage, cooked lobster can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap the tails tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to maintain freshness.
Reheating is best done gently. Warm the lobster in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes, or steam it briefly to preserve its tenderness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meat rubbery.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter sauce.
If you prefer grilling, simply brush the lobster tails with butter and place them on a hot grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Swap out the parsley for fresh chives or dill for a different herbaceous note that complements seafood beautifully.
For a richer flavor, mix in a splash of white wine to the butter sauce before brushing it onto the lobster tails.
However you choose to make it, this garlic butter lobster tail recipe is sure to impress. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
PrintGarlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a luxurious yet easy-to-make seafood dish. Succulent lobster tails are basted in a rich garlic butter sauce and baked or broiled to perfection, delivering tender, flavorful meat in every bite. Perfect for a special dinner or date night!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking/Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or set broiler to high.
- Cut the lobster shells down the center and gently pull the meat out, resting it on top.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or broil for 5-7 minutes until the lobster is opaque and tender.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra flavor, baste the lobster with butter while cooking.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use a meat thermometer; lobster is done at 140°F (60°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lobster tail
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
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