Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Elegant, Tender, and Bursting with Flavor

Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are the definition of effortless luxury. Sweet, tender lobster meat paired with rich, aromatic garlic butter creates a dish that feels indulgent yet incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for romantic dinners, holidays, or celebrations, this recipe delivers steakhouse-level results at home.

With just a handful of quality ingredients and a short baking time, you can create a stunning seafood dish that impresses every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 20 minutes
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
Perfect for special occasions
Tender, juicy lobster every time
Foolproof baking method

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

4 lobster tails (140–170 g / 5–6 oz each)
100 g (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional: pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat

How to Prepare Lobster Tails

Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of the shell lengthwise.
Gently loosen the lobster meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the base.
Lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.
Place tails on a baking dish lined with parchment or lightly greased.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).

2. Make the Garlic Butter

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

3. Season the Lobster

Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring it coats evenly.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, depending on the size of the tails, until the meat is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F).

Avoid overcooking—lobster becomes tough quickly.

5. Finish and Serve

Remove from oven and brush with remaining garlic butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips for Perfect Baked Lobster Tails

Use fresh or properly thawed lobster tails
Do not overbake—check at the 10-minute mark
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra color (optional)
Use high-quality butter for best flavor

Flavor Variations

Garlic Parmesan Lobster: Add grated Parmesan before baking
Herb Butter Lobster: Use thyme, chives, or tarragon
Spicy Garlic Lobster: Add cayenne or chili oil
Lemon Herb Lobster: Increase lemon zest and fresh herbs

Serving Suggestions

Pair baked lobster tails with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted asparagus or green beans
Buttered rice or risotto
Crisp white wine or champagne

Storage & Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
Reheat gently in the oven at low heat to avoid drying out

Why Garlic Butter Is the Perfect Match

Garlic butter enhances the natural sweetness of lobster without overpowering it. The fat in the butter keeps the meat moist, while garlic and lemon add depth and brightness, creating a perfectly balanced bite.

Final Thoughts

Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are proof that fine dining doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender meat, rich buttery flavor, and elegant presentation, this dish is guaranteed to impress—whether for a romantic dinner or a festive celebration.