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Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Baked lobster tails with garlic butter in a foil pan, tender lobster meat topped with melted butter

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These Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter are restaurant-quality yet simple enough for home cooks. With tender meat and bold garlic-lemon butter, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner. Baked instead of broiled, it’s easy to prepare and delivers juicy, flavorful results every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lobster tails (46 oz each)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Using kitchen shears, cut the top of each lobster shell lengthwise. Gently pull the meat up and rest it on top of the shell.
  3. Place lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Spoon the garlic butter generously over the lobster meat.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the lobster is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
  7. Remove from oven, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

For added richness, use clarified butter. Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat, or substitute fresh herbs like thyme or chives. Prepare the garlic butter and prep lobster tails up to 8 hours ahead. Store leftovers for up to 2 days and reheat gently in the oven for the best texture.

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