Description
Delicious and easy Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails featuring tender lobster meat smothered in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection for a juicy and satisfying seafood dish perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Lobster Tails
- 4 lobster tails (6–8 oz each)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prepare for baking the lobster tails.
- Prepare Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat out of the shell and lay it on top of the shell, keeping the base attached. This technique is called ‘piggybacking’ the lobster tail.
- Arrange Lobster Tails: Place the prepared lobster tails on the lined baking sheet, positioning them shell side down to support the meat on top.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined for a flavorful coating.
- Coat Lobster Meat: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the lobster meat, ensuring each tail is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake Lobster Tails: Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The meat should be firm yet tender and juicy.
- Garnish: Remove the lobster tails from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired for added taste and presentation.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to add a fresh and zesty burst of flavor.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the lobster tails, as this can make the meat tough and rubbery.
- Piggybacking the tails allows the lobster meat to cook evenly and makes for an elegant presentation.
- Optional Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch to the finished dish but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
