Lobster Tail Recipe (Fast & Easy) Recipe
This fast and easy lobster tail recipe delivers succulent and tender lobster meat broiled to perfection. With a flavorful garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika butter glaze, this dish is perfect for a quick gourmet meal that serves four and cooks in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Lobster Tails
- 4 10-oz lobster tails (or adjust cooking time for other sizes)
Butter Mixture
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted; 1/2 stick)
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Thaw Lobster Tails: If your lobster tails are frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or submerge them in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes to thaw more quickly while keeping them fresh.
- Preheat the Oven Broiler: Set your oven to broil at 500 degrees F (260 degrees C). Position the oven rack so that the lobster tails will be 4 to 5 inches from the broiler element for even cooking.
- Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the shell lengthwise from the wide end to just before the tail fin, without cutting the bottom shell. Pry open the shell gently with your fingers and pull the lobster meat upward, leaving it attached at the tail fin. Push the shell pieces underneath and rest the meat on top to expose it for broiling.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, crushed garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to infuse the butter with a rich, spicy flavor.
- Brush and Broil: Generously brush the butter mixture over the exposed lobster meat. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for approximately 1 minute per ounce of lobster tail, until the meat is opaque and lightly golden brown. For example, 10-ounce tails should broil for about 10 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure the lobster is fresh or properly thawed for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust broiling time if your lobster tails differ in size; always cook until meat is opaque.
- You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat level preference.
- This recipe can be paired with steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
- Wear oven mitts and keep an eye on the lobster closely while broiling, as the high heat can quickly overcook the delicate meat.