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Perfect Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

garlic butter grilled lobster tails - featured image

An easy and elegant recipe for garlic butter grilled lobster tails that delivers rich, buttery flavor and tender seafood magic with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized lobster tails (68 ounces or 170225 grams each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut down the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fan (about 4-5 inches or 10-13 cm). Gently pry open the shell to expose the meat, then carefully lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell without detaching it completely.
  2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons (60 g) of unsalted butter. Stir in minced garlic, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on very low heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Heat your grill to medium-high (about 375°F/190°C). Brush the lobster shells lightly with 1 teaspoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill for 4-5 minutes (10-13 cm tails), until lightly charred. Flip them over and brush generously with the garlic butter mixture. Continue grilling meat-side up for another 4-5 minutes, basting with more butter every couple of minutes.
  5. Check for doneness: The lobster meat should be opaque, firm, and register 140°F (60°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Avoid overcooking, or the meat will become rubbery.
  6. Remove lobster tails from the grill and brush with a final coat of garlic butter. Let rest for 2 minutes before plating for juices to redistribute.

Notes

Keep the heat low when melting butter to avoid browning the garlic. Use tongs carefully to avoid tearing the meat. If flare-ups occur on the grill, use a spray bottle of water to control flames. Adjust cooking time based on lobster tail size. For a crunchy texture, add panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives in the last minute of grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter, grilled lobster tails, easy lobster recipe, elegant dining, seafood, quick dinner, buttery lobster