Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

📜 Description

Succulent lobster tails baked to perfection and drenched in rich garlic butter—this elegant dish is a showstopper for any special occasion or gourmet dinner. The tender meat, lightly seasoned and baked until golden, is irresistibly flavorful and incredibly simple to prepare.

🧾 Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails (5–6 oz each), thawed if frozen

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

🍽️ Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare lobster tails: Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top of the shell lengthwise to the tail. Gently lift the meat, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell.

3. Make garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Brush lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture.

5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly golden.

6. Broil (optional) for 1–2 minutes for extra browning.

7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

📌 Notes

• If lobster tails are large (7 oz+), baking time may increase slightly.

• Always thaw frozen lobster tails fully before baking.

• For even richer flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to the butter mix.

💡 Tips

• Butterflying the tail makes for a beautiful presentation.

• Use a meat thermometer: internal temp should reach 140–145°F (60–63°C).

• Serve with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a simple salad.

🍽️ Servings

• Serves: 4

• Serving size: 1 lobster tail

• 🥗 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~210

• Protein: 27g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbs: 1g

• Sodium: 450mg

• Cholesterol: 110mg

💪 Health Benefits

• High-quality lean protein source.

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health.

• Contains essential minerals like zinc, phosphorus, and selenium.

• Low in calories and carbs, making it keto-friendly.

❓Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen lobster tails?
A: Yes, but thaw them overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag under cold water.

Q: What’s the best way to cut lobster tails?
A: Use sharp kitchen scissors to cut the shell from the top center to the base without cutting the meat.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can prep the tails and garlic butter ahead, but bake them fresh for best texture.

Q: Is broiling necessary?
A: Not required, but it adds a beautiful golden finish.

Q: Can I substitute the butter?
A: Yes, use olive oil or ghee for a different flavor or dairy-free option.