Print

Perfect Baked Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter

perfect baked lobster tail - featured image

A simple and elegant baked lobster tail recipe featuring garlic herb butter that locks in moisture and flavor, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lobster tails (about 6 ounces each; fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell apart to expose the meat, then lift the meat slightly and rest it on top of the shell (piggyback style).
  3. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk to mix thoroughly.
  4. Brush the lobster meat generously with half of the garlic herb butter mixture, coating every bit for maximum flavor and moisture.
  5. Lightly brush the lobster shells with olive oil to help them crisp in the oven.
  6. Arrange the lobster tails on the baking sheet, meat side up.
  7. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat turns opaque and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
  8. Remove from oven and immediately brush the lobster tails with the remaining garlic herb butter for extra flavor and shine.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with a lemon wedge or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid rubbery meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Brush lobster tails with garlic herb butter before and after baking for best flavor. For a little color, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a low oven with reserved garlic butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked lobster tail, garlic herb butter, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, special occasion seafood