Description
Experience the rich, decadent flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails, an elegant yet straightforward seafood dish perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight meal. Tender lobster meat is expertly prepared and bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, then baked to juicy perfection, creating a buttery, garlicky treat that melts in your mouth.
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
For Garnish and Serving
- 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). 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 known as ‘piggybacking’ and allows even cooking and an attractive presentation.
- Arrange Lobster Tails: Place the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet, positioning them shell side down to keep the meat perched on top during baking.
- Mix Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is well combined and aromatic.
- Coat Lobster Meat: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the exposed lobster meat, ensuring each tail is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake Lobster Tails: Bake 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 feel firm yet tender and juicy when done.
- Garnish: Remove the lobster tails from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired, adding a burst of color and extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter baked lobster tails immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing citrus finish.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the lobster tails to avoid rubbery texture; monitor the internal temperature carefully.
- ‘Piggybacking’ the lobster tail not only improves presentation but also allows the butter sauce to penetrate the meat evenly.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory depth when sprinkled on top.
- Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may alter the taste.
- Lemon wedges served on the side add a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich buttery lobster.
