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Close-up overhead shot of golden-brown baked lobster tails arranged on a white serving platter. The tails are garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, sitting next to a small white bowl filled with melted garlic butter for dipping.

Easy Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Hilary PARKER
Get ready to feel like a five-star chef! These Baked Lobster Tails are surprisingly easy to whip up and are on the table in under 20 minutes. We use a high-heat oven method to lock in moisture and drench the meat in a zippy, savory garlic herb butter that is totally crave-worthy. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just treating yourself!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Dishes
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Lobster:

  • 4 lobster tails 6-8 ounces each, fresh or thawed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon paprika sweet or smoked
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

  • Lemon slices from the zested lemon
  • Extra melted butter optional, for dipping
  • Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Let the lobster tails sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before preparation—this helps them cook more evenly and prevents the meat from seizing up.
  • Butterfly the Tails: Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Do not cut the bottom shell! Gently pull the meat out and let it rest on top of the shell. Make a shallow cut down the center of the meat and pat it dry.
  • Make the Magic Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  • Season & Coat: Arrange the tails on the baking sheet. Season the meat lightly with salt and pepper, then generously brush with the garlic herb butter. Arrange lemon slices around the tails on the sheet.
  • Bake: Place on the middle rack and bake for 8-10 minutes. The meat should turn opaque white and the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). Baste with remaining butter halfway through.
  • Optional Broil: For a golden finish, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning the garlic.
  • Serve: Let rest for 2 minutes, drizzle with pan juices, and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and extra dipping butter

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15g
Keyword Baked Lobster Tails, Easy Seafood Recipe, Garlic Butter Lobster, Oven Baked Lobster
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