Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping seafood dish that’s both simple and absolutely delicious, you’ve got to try my Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe. I absolutely love how this tender lobster meat, bathed in fragrant garlic butter and broiled to golden perfection, feels like a fancy restaurant treat right in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a special occasion or you just want to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is fast, flavorful, and full of those buttery, garlicky vibes you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are all about balance: sweet lobster tails paired with rich herb and garlic butter that sings with just the right pop of paprika. Choosing fresh lobster tails and quality butter makes all the difference here.

• Lobster tails: Fresh or thawed frozen tails work great; I like 12-14 ounces for plenty of meat per serving.
• Herb and garlic butter: You can make your own or buy pre-made flavored butter—the garlic and herbs really make this recipe stand out.
• Sweet paprika: Adds color and a touch of mild smoky flavor without overpowering the lobster.
• Lemon wedges: Fresh squeezed lemon brightens every bite in a way nothing else can.
• Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste at the end.
• Melted unsalted butter: Optional but trust me, a little extra dipping butter makes this feel extra indulgent.
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional): A sprinkle adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as garnish.

Variations

I love making this Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe just as is, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s super easy to switch things up to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder to the garlic butter turns up the heat for those who like a little fire.
• Herb Twists: I’ve swapped parsley for tarragon or basil sometimes, which adds a fresh, bright note perfect for spring or summer dinners.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use unsalted butter and reduce added salt, then serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
• Broil with Cheese: Occasionally, I sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top before broiling for a golden crust that’s irresistibly savory.

How to Make Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Lobster Tails for Perfection

Start by preheating your broiler to high heat—this ensures the lobster cooks quickly and gets that beautiful golden color. To prep the lobster, squeeze the bottom part of the shell to loosen the meat, then carefully cut down the shell from tail to top with a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Gently pull the lobster meat up and place it on top of the shell for that jaw-dropping presentation that impresses every single time.

Step 2: Butter and Season Generously

Next, add a few dollops of the herb and garlic butter right on top of the lobster meat—aim for about 2 tablespoons per tail so every bite is buttery and flavorful. Don’t forget a little sprinkle of sweet paprika; it adds gorgeous color and a subtle smoky note without being overpowering.

Step 3: Broil Until Just Perfect

Place your lobster tails on a baking sheet spaced a few inches apart, then slide them onto the oven’s middle rack. Broil for 6 to 8 minutes depending on your tail size. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn lightly browned and the meat reaches about 135°F internally. I use a quick thermometer check here to avoid overcooking, which can make lobster tough and rubbery.

Step 4: Rest and Serve with Style

Once cooked, let the lobster tails rest for a couple of minutes. This short rest helps keep all the juices locked inside. Serve your broiled lobster tails artfully on a platter with generous lemon wedges and, if you like, small bowls of melted butter for dipping. Your guests will love the rich flavors and impressive look!

How to Serve Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling fresh minced parsley or chives over the lobster right before serving—it adds a bright flash of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the richness of the butter. Plus, it just looks stunning on the plate.

Side Dishes

For sides, I keep it simple so the lobster shines. Steamed asparagus, a crisp garden salad, or some buttery garlic mashed potatoes all work beautifully. If you’re feeling indulgent, a fresh baked baguette for mopping up that melted butter is an absolute must.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving the lobster tails on a bed of crushed ice lined with lemon slices and sprigs of fresh herbs. It looks restaurant-worthy and helps keep the lobster nice and chilled if you need a moment before serving. Adding little bowls of different flavored butters like chive or lemon herb also makes a fun interactive dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover broiled lobster tail (which almost never happens in my house!), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. I’ve found it’s best eaten within 2 days to keep that fresh, delicate flavor.

Freezing

Freezing cooked lobster isn’t my favorite option because the texture can get a little rubbery after thawing. But if you want to freeze, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and use within 1 month. Thaw slowly overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm lobster tails in a low oven (around 275°F) wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make lobster chewy. Brush with a little extra garlic butter before warming to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Broiled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe is truly one of my go-to dishes when I want something impressive but hassle-free. I remember the first time I made it — the butter melting over the sweet lobster meat, the aroma filling the kitchen — it just felt like a celebration. I can’t recommend it enough if you want to treat yourself or your friends to something special without fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back to this recipe for every memorable meal.

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