Lobster Tail with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

A classic restaurant-style lobster tail recipe that’s rich, buttery, and surprisingly easy to make at home. This version uses broiled lobster tails finished with a flavorful garlic herb butter sauce.

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

For the lobster

• 4 lobster tails (4–6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Paprika (optional, for color)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the garlic herb butter sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh chives or thyme (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Equipment

• Kitchen shears
• Baking sheet or oven-safe dish
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush

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Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or set broiler to high.
2. Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fin.
3. Gently loosen the meat from the shell with your fingers while keeping it attached at the base.
4. Lift the meat upward and rest it on top of the shell (“piggyback” style).
5. Pat dry and brush with olive oil.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

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Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat:

1. Melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t brown it).
3. Stir in parsley, herbs, lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes.
4. Reserve half the sauce for serving.

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Step 3: Cook the Lobster

Broiling Method (Best for flavor)

1. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet.
2. Brush generously with garlic butter.
3. Broil for 8–10 minutes, depending on size.

The lobster is done when:

• The meat is opaque white
• Shell turns bright red
• Internal temperature reaches 140–145°F

Baking Method

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 10–12 minutes.

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Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Brush with the reserved warm garlic herb butter.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
3. Garnish with extra parsley.

Serve immediately with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus
• Garlic rice
• Crusty bread for dipping

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Chef Tips

• Avoid overcooking — lobster becomes rubbery quickly.
• If using frozen lobster tails, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.
• Add grated parmesan to the butter sauce for extra richness.
• For smoky flavor, grill the tails instead of broiling.

Optional Cajun Variation

Add:

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Dash of hot sauce

to the butter sauce before brushing.

Wine Pairing

Pairs well with:

• Chardonnay
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Sparkling wine