If you love rich, buttery seafood that's bursting with flavor, this Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender lobster meat baked and then broiled with a savory garlic butter glaze that’s simply irresistible.

The image shows a close-up of cooked lobster tails on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. There are three lobster tail pieces, each with bright orange-red shells at the bottom, topped with thick layers of creamy, golden-brown lobster meat. The meat is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, adding texture and color contrast. Small sprigs of fresh green parsley are placed behind the lobster tails, giving a fresh look. The lobster meat looks tender with a slightly crisp, seasoned surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m a huge fan of dishes that feel special but are actually simple to make—and this garlic butter lobster tails recipe fits that perfectly. It transforms a fancy meal into something approachable and fun to prepare right at home.

Effortless Elegance: Simple steps lead to a stunning presentation and delicious taste.
Flavor Packed: The garlic butter sauce with fresh parsley and lemon zest brings bright, rich flavors.
Quick Cooking: Ready in just about 30 minutes, perfect for special dinners without stress.
Perfect for Sharing: Makes 4 servings, so it’s a great choice for cozy gatherings.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Getting the right ingredients is key here, and it’s easier than you might think. Fresh lobster tails are the star, while classic seasonings and lots of garlic butter bring everything together beautifully.

Flat lay of four fresh lobster tails with shells partially pulled back displaying the white lobster meat, a small white bowl of golden melted butter mixed with chopped bright green parsley and finely grated garlic, three peeled whole garlic cloves, a small white bowl containing a vibrant mix of reddish paprika, coarse kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Old Bay seasoning, a few fresh lemon wedges with bright yellow peel and juicy interiors, and a small white bowl of finely grated lemon zest, all arranged symmetrically and proportionally on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Lobster tails: Always opt for fresh or well-thawed tails—quality seafood makes all the difference.
Paprika: Adds a mild smoky warmth and beautiful color to the dish.
Old Bay seasoning: This classic seafood spice blend amps up the flavor with a touch of the sea’s essence.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
Garlic powder: A subtle boost of garlicky goodness that complements fresh garlic perfectly.
Onion powder: Adds depth without overpowering.
Ground black pepper: A little kick of spice for balance.
Butter: The rich foundation for the garlic sauce—don’t skimp on quality here.
Fresh parsley: Brightens and freshens the overall flavor, plus it adds a lovely pop of green.
Garlic (fresh): Grated fresh garlic brings an intense, vibrant aroma and taste you just can’t beat.
Lemon zest: Gives a refreshing citrus zing that cuts through the richness.
Lemon wedges: Optional but highly recommended; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds the perfect finishing touch.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to amp up the garlic, add a touch of heat, or keep it simple and elegant, there’s plenty of room for personalization without losing that luscious, buttery flavor.

Spicy Kick Variation: I love adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red chili flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat. It complements the sweetness of the lobster beautifully and adds a nice contrast to the buttery richness.
Herb Swap: If fresh parsley isn’t available, I’ve found that fresh cilantro or chives bring a fresh, slightly different herbal note. For a more earthy twist, thyme or tarragon also works wonders.
Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute the butter with a quality olive oil or vegan butter alternative. The lobster stays succulent and flavorful, and you can mix in garlic and lemon zest just the same.
Seasonal Twist: During summer, I like to sprinkle a bit of lemon thyme or add finely chopped fresh basil into the butter sauce for a bright, seasonal freshness that’s just divine.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

A white plate holds three main layers: at the bottom, a split lobster tail with its bright red-orange shell shows the thick white lobster meat on top, sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. Next to the lobster tail, there is a smooth, creamy mashed potato swirl with a light yellow color and a small drizzle of melted butter inside. On the side, vibrant green steamed broccoli florets add color, along with a bright yellow lemon wedge placed in front on the plate's edge. A green parsley sprig rests on the mashed potatoes. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven to 400°F

First things first, get your oven ready by preheating it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for gently baking the lobster tails so they cook through evenly, setting the stage for that final broil to finish things off with a delicious crispy top.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the back of each lobster shell until you reach the tail, but be sure to leave the base of the tail untouched so that the lobster stays whole and elegant on the plate. Gently pull back the shell and lift the lobster meat out, resting it atop the shell. Don’t forget to remove the black vein for a cleaner taste, rinsing the meat under cold water if needed. This step makes the lobster easier to eat and gives you that beautiful presentation.

Step 3: Season the Lobster Tails

Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet fitted with a rack. In a small bowl, combine ¼ teaspoon each of paprika, Old Bay seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Sprinkle this flavorful blend evenly over the lobster meat. This seasoning mix enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster without overpowering it.

Step 4: Bake for 10 Minutes

Pop the lobster tails into your preheated oven and bake them for exactly 10 minutes. You'll see the meat start to turn opaque and firm up—this indicates it’s perfectly cooked and juicy inside, ready for its garlicky butter finish.

Step 5: Make Your Garlic Butter Sauce

While your lobster bakes, melt one stick (8 tablespoons) of butter in a small saucepan or microwave, then stir in ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, three cloves of freshly grated garlic, and one teaspoon of lemon zest. Add an additional teaspoon each of paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and kosher salt to the mix. Stir thoroughly until everything is combined into a fragrant, luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Butter the Lobster and Broil for a Golden Crust

Remove 3 tablespoons of the garlic butter sauce and set it aside—that’s for finishing your dish beautifully. Brush the remaining butter generously over the baked lobster tails. Then switch your oven to broil on high and broil the tails for 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure the topping turns golden brown and develops a slight crisp without burning. This step seals in moisture and adds that irresistible texture contrast.

Step 7: Serve Immediately with a Burst of Lemon

Once your lobster tails are perfectly broiled, remove them from the oven and spoon that reserved garlic butter sauce right on top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over. This little splash of citrus brightens the whole dish and makes it truly special. Enjoy every buttery, garlicky, melt-in-your-mouth bite!

Top Tip

These tips will help you get the most flavor and the perfect texture when making this Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe. From prep to plating, a few tricks go a long way!

Use sharp kitchen shears: Cutting through lobster shells with sharp kitchen scissors makes it safer and easier to get the meat out without damaging it.
Remove the black vein: >This little step really freshens the taste—removing the vein avoids any bitterness or grit.
Brush generously with garlic butter: Don’t be shy with the garlic butter sauce; brushing it before broiling locks in moisture and gives that irresistible golden crust.
Watch the broiler closely: Three minutes under the broiler is just right—too long and the garlic butter can burn, so keep an eye on it for that perfect finish.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Four lobster tails are placed evenly on a gold wire rack over a silver baking tray. Each tail is opened to expose raw lobster meat that is white with a slight pink tint and a rough texture, sprinkled with reddish seasoning and a light dusting of white powder. The lobster shells underneath are dark greenish-brown with orange edges and rough, spotted patterns. The surface below the tray is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh lemon wedges are a classic and perfect for squeezing over the lobster for a bright zing. A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. For a touch of elegance, a light dusting of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky aroma that complements the garlic butter wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair these rich lobster tails with light and fresh sides like garlic roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery risotto also balance the luxurious garlic butter sauce beautifully. To keep the feast feeling coastal, serve alongside some warm crusty bread to soak up all that buttery goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover lobster tails in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep the garlic butter sauce separate if possible, so the lobster meat retains its texture without becoming soggy.

Freezing

Freezing cooked lobster tails is possible but not ideal for maintaining that tender texture. If you want to freeze them, wrap each tail tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 1 month for best quality. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat lobster tails gently in a low oven set to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out, for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also warm them in a covered skillet over low heat, brushing with some reserved garlic butter to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe?

Yes! Frozen lobster tails work perfectly. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before preparing to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

If fresh parsley isn’t available, flat-leaf or even dried parsley can be used as substitutes in the garlic butter sauce. Fresh parsley gives the brightest flavor, but dried works in a pinch.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a nice kick without overpowering the delicate lobster flavor.

How do I know when the lobster tails are fully cooked?

The lobster meat will turn opaque and firm to the touch when done. In this recipe, baking for 10 minutes followed by 3 minutes broiling at 400°F ensures perfectly cooked lobster tails.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about diving into a warm, buttery lobster tail that’s bursting with garlicky goodness. This Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe is a luxurious yet simple way to bring elegance to your dinner table, whether for a celebration or a delightful weeknight treat. With these handy tips and serving suggestions, I hope you feel inspired to treat yourself and loved ones to this indulgent seafood feast again and again!