Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter is a luxurious, simple, and delicious seafood dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home. The lobster tails are tender, perfectly baked, and drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients (serves 2)

For the Lobster Tails:

• 2 lobster tails (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• 1/4 cup butter (unsalted)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for color)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for brushing lobster)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Thaw the Lobster Tails (if frozen) by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for 30-40 minutes.
3. To butterfly the lobster tails: Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently pull the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell.
4. Use your fingers to gently loosen the meat from the shell, but leave it attached at the base so it looks like it’s resting on top of the shell.

2. Make the Garlic Butter:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
3. Stir in lemon juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

3. Bake the Lobster Tails:

1. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
2. Brush the lobster meat with a little olive oil (optional) for extra moisture and to help with browning.
3. Pour the garlic butter over the lobster meat, making sure it gets into the crevices. Reserve a little bit of the butter to drizzle on top after baking.
4. Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. The lobster will curl up and become firm to the touch when done.
   • Tip: The internal temperature of the lobster should reach 140-145°F (60-63°C).
5. If desired, switch the oven to broil during the last 2 minutes of baking for a crispy, golden top.

4. Serve:

1. Once cooked, remove the lobster tails from the oven.
2. Drizzle the reserved garlic butter over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
4. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes, like a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

• Perfect Butter Sauce: You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the garlic butter for extra flavor.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want the lobster meat to be slightly caramelized and crisp on top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
• Side Pairings: Lobster tails pair beautifully with a buttery garlic bread or risotto.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Champagne would complement the lobster perfectly.

Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are the perfect way to enjoy lobster without the mess of boiling or grilling. The garlic butter keeps the lobster moist, while the lemon and paprika add a nice, fresh pop of flavor. You’ll be impressing your guests (or yourself!) in no time. 😋🦞

Let me know if you want other variations or side suggestions!