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Perfect Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

garlic butter grilled lobster tails - featured image

A simple and quick recipe for juicy, tender lobster tails grilled with a rich garlic butter glaze, perfect for a gourmet feast without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lobster tails (68 ounces each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the middle of the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Pry the shell open gently and lift the lobster meat out, resting it on top of the shell for even grilling.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until evenly mixed.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). Brush the grill grates with oil or use a grill mat to prevent sticking.
  4. Lightly brush the exposed lobster meat with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage a nice sear.
  5. Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear and the meat starts to turn opaque.
  6. Flip the tails over and baste generously with garlic butter. Continue grilling meat-side up for another 4-5 minutes, basting every couple of minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning the garlic.
  7. Check for doneness: the meat should be opaque and firm, with an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
  8. Remove lobster tails from the grill and let rest for 1-2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Serve with remaining garlic butter spooned over the top and a wedge of lemon on the side.

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid tough meat. Use softened butter for better basting. Baste gradually to prevent flare-ups. Keep grill lid open when flipping to avoid steaming. A spray bottle of water can help control flare-ups. If no grill is available, broil lobster tails for 8-10 minutes, basting halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tails, garlic butter, grilled lobster, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, gourmet seafood, quick dinner, grilled seafood