Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping seafood dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, this Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter is your answer! Sweet, tender lobster tails are broiled to perfection and bathed in a luscious sauce bursting with fresh garlic, vibrant lemon, and buttery goodness—ideal for celebrations or a special dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients to make this unforgettable Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter. Each one has a special role—bringing out the lobster’s natural sweetness, building a crave-worthy sauce, and adding gorgeous color to your plate.

• Lobster tails (4, 5–6 oz each): The star of the show! Fresh, meaty tails provide a tender, subtly sweet base for all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of bright green color and herby freshness both in the marinade and as a finishing garnish.
• Garlic cloves: Pressed fresh for that unmistakable aromatic kick that makes the butter sauce completely addictive.
• Dijon mustard: A little goes a long way—it gives the sauce a gentle tang and depth, enhancing every savory note.
• Fine sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper: For seasoning the lobster perfectly and bringing all the other flavors into focus.
• Olive oil: Helps the marinade seep into the lobster meat, adding a silky texture and subtle richness.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the butter with a pop of citrus.
• Unsalted butter: The foundation of the irresistible garlic lemon butter sauce—be sure to use real butter for best results.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can tweak it to suit your mood, diet, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some simple, delicious ways to personalize your Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic lemon butter to give the lobster a little heat.
• Herb Lovers: Swap the parsley for fresh tarragon, chives, or dill for a unique twist on the herb profile.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute a quality dairy-free or vegan butter for the unsalted butter—the results are just as rich and delicious!
• Grilled Lobster: Instead of broiling, fire up your grill—lobster tails can be grilled over medium-high heat for a lightly smoky flavor.

How to Make Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter

Step 1: Butterfly the Lobster Tails

Set your lobster tails on a cutting board, shells facing up. Use sturdy kitchen scissors to gently snip down the center of each shell, stopping just before you reach the tail fin. Crack the underside ribs, then carefully lift and separate the meat so it sits beautifully atop each shell—this ‘butterfly’ technique makes the lobster extra eye-catching and helps it cook evenly!

Step 2: Prep the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together finely chopped parsley, pressed garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, cracked black pepper, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. This aromatic blend not only seasons the lobster but infuses the meat with a zesty, savory punch as it broils.

Step 3: Arrange and Marinate

Place the butterflied lobster tails in a roasting pan or broiler-safe dish, then divide the marinade evenly over each tail. Dot each with pieces of butter—this will melt under the broiler, soaking into the lobster and creating those luscious pan drippings you’ll use later.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Set your oven rack so the lobster will be about 6 inches from the broiler, and preheat on high. Broil the lobster tails for 10-11 minutes (for 5–6 oz tails), keeping a close eye so the meat becomes opaque and just turns white in the middle. The finished temperature should be 145°F. Be ready for tempting aromas!

Step 5: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Once the lobster is cooked, drain the magical juices from the pan into a small saucepan. Add your remaining butter and gently simmer—this is your rich, tangy, garlicky lemon butter to pour over each tail or serve in ramekins for dipping. Do not skip this step—it’s pure decadence!

How to Serve Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the hot lobster tails not only enhances the vibrant color but adds a fresh, herby fragrance that makes each bite sing. For extra flair, you can add a few thin lemon slices or wedges on the platter—simple, classic, and beautiful.

Side Dishes

This Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter pairs naturally with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy steamed rice, or even a pile of garlicky sautéed greens. For a delicately balanced meal, try roasted fingerling potatoes or a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette. And don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that heavenly sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve each lobster tail on individual plates over a bed of wilted spinach or microgreens. Or, arrange the tails on a big platter with lemon wedges, dipping sauce in the center, and plenty of fresh parsley—perfect for sharing and impressing your guests! Want to really go over the top? Pair with mini filet mignons for a surf-and-turf feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store cooled lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to save any leftover garlic lemon butter sauce separately—it’s just as delightful on vegetables or pasta the next day!

Freezing

For best texture and flavor, I recommend enjoying your Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter fresh. However, if needed, cooked lobster meat (removed from the shell) can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To keep your lobster moist and succulent, reheat gently in the oven, wrapped in foil with a few spoonfuls of leftover butter sauce at 325°F until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the delicate meat rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like sitting down to a platter of Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter—especially when you’ve made it yourself! I hope you’re inspired to treat yourself and your loved ones to this luxurious, surprisingly simple dish. Give it a try and let your kitchen (and your taste buds!) feel like a five-star experience, no reservations required.

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