Tender, juicy lobster tails baked in rich garlic butter make an elegant seafood dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. With buttery flavor, fresh lemon, and perfectly baked lobster meat, this restaurant-style dish is perfect for holidays, date nights, or special family dinners.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Equipment Needed
- Kitchen scissors
- Baking sheet or baking dish
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon
- Sharp knife
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Ingredient Notes
- Cold-water lobster tails are sweeter and more tender than warm-water varieties.
- Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Paprika adds color and mild smoky flavor.
- Unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Using kitchen scissors, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise.
- Gently pull the lobster meat upward and rest it on top of the shell.
- Place lobster tails on a baking sheet or baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra melted butter if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
Tips and Variations
- Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a golden top.
- Add grated Parmesan for extra richness.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or rice.
- Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the butter for heat.
- Fresh thyme or chives make excellent herb alternatives.