Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

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🦞 Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

📖 Description

Baked lobster tails with garlic butter are a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home. The tender lobster meat is baked until juicy and topped with a rich garlic-butter sauce, enhanced with fresh lemon and herbs. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

📝 Ingredients for Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

  • 4 lobster tails (about 5–6 oz each)

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep Lobster Tails:

    • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

    • Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise down the middle, stopping at the tail. Gently pull the meat out of the shell and rest it on top (keeping it attached at the base).

  2. Make Garlic Butter:

    • In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. Brush & Bake:

    • Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush generously with garlic butter mixture.

    • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly firm (internal temp: 140–145°F / 60–63°C).

  4. Serve:

    • Drizzle with extra garlic butter, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

🍴 Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Serving size: 1 lobster tail

📊 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 28g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Carbohydrates: 2g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sugar: 0g

  • Cholesterol: 160mg

  • Sodium: 480mg

💡 Notes

  • Lobster cooks quickly; avoid overbaking, or it will turn rubbery.

  • Paprika adds a nice color but can be skipped.

  • If you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter.

🔑 Tips

  • Use fresh lobster tails for best flavor, but frozen (thawed properly) also works.

  • Always cut through the top shell only, leaving the bottom shell intact for presentation.

  • For extra flavor, broil the lobster tails for the last 2 minutes to create a golden finish.

  • Pair with mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a light salad for a complete meal.

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and energy.

  • Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Good for heart and brain health.

  • Low in Carbs: Great option for keto or low-carb diets.

  • Contains Vitamins & Minerals: Especially vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium.

❓ Q&A

Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes! Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q2: How do I know when lobster is fully cooked?
The meat should be white and opaque, not translucent, with an internal temp of 140–145°F.

Q3: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and prep the lobster tails in advance, but bake just before serving.

Q4: What wine pairs well with lobster tails?
A crisp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Champagne pairs beautifully.

Q5: Can I grill instead of bake?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes, brushing with garlic butter.

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