There’s nothing more elegant yet simple than baked lobster tails.
This Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails recipe is juicy, buttery, and perfect for a special dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare—ready in under 20 minutes.
Rich garlic butter flavor that complements lobster perfectly.
Looks restaurant-worthy but easy enough for beginners.
Perfect for holidays, date nights, or special occasions.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Lobster tails – Tender and meaty, ideal for baking.
Butter – Creates a rich, savory base.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth into the butter.
Parsley – Adds freshness and color.
Lemon – Balances richness with brightness.
Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning for balance.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut the lobster shell cleanly with kitchen shears to expose the meat.
Don’t overbake—lobster is done when opaque and tender.
Use fresh garlic, not powder, for best flavor.
Serve immediately for the juiciest texture.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails
Step 1 – Preheat oven
Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet.
Step 2 – Prepare lobster tails
Cut a slit down the top of the shells and expose the meat.
Step 3 – Make garlic butter
Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Step 4 – Brush and bake
Brush mixture generously over lobster meat.
Bake 10–12 minutes until opaque.
Step 5 – Serve
Plate immediately with lemon wedges.
What to Serve Them With
Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Steamed asparagus or green beans.
A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Crusty bread to soak up extra butter.
Variations / Substitutions
Add paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use cilantro instead of parsley for a fresh twist.
Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
Top with Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until just warmed.
Avoid microwaving—it makes lobster rubbery.
Not ideal for freezing once cooked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, thaw them completely before cooking.
How do I know when lobster is done?
The meat turns opaque and white, not translucent.
Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes, grill on medium heat for 8–10 minutes.
Do I need to butterfly the lobster?
Yes, cutting the shell open ensures even cooking.
What size lobster tails work best?
Medium (6–8 oz) tails are ideal for even cooking.
Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead?
Yes, make it a few hours in advance and store in the fridge.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt slightly.
What wine pairs well with lobster?
A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just use a larger baking sheet and increase cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails recipe is indulgent yet simple.
With minimal ingredients and quick cooking, it brings a touch of luxury to your dinner table.
