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Grilled Lobster Tails

Grilled Lobster Tails

Master the art of cooking juicy, flavorful Grilled Lobster Tails with this easy and elegant recipe. Perfectly grilled lobster meat is infused with garlic butter and herbs, creating a restaurant-quality seafood dish you can make in your backyard in under 20 minutes. Customizable and impressive, it’s ideal for any special occasion or casual meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 live lobster tails or frozen (thawed), 6-8 ounces each
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, cut the lobster shells lengthwise down the middle without removing the meat. This exposes the lobster meat, ensuring even cooking and easier basting.
  2. Make the Basting Butter: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Keep the butter warm for basting during grilling.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F (204°C), to achieve a perfect sear locking in juices and flavor.
  4. Grill the Lobster Tails: Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes to develop a slight char. Flip them over and generously baste with the prepared butter. Grill for an additional 4-5 minutes until the meat turns opaque and firms up but remains juicy.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the lobster tails from the grill. Brush with any remaining butter and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and tenderness.

Notes

  • Butter baste often: Regularly brushing the lobster meat with flavored butter keeps it moist and enhances flavor.
  • Don’t overcook: Watch for opaque, firm lobster meat to avoid rubberiness.
  • Use fresh lobster if possible: Fresh tails give the best texture and taste, yet thawed frozen tails also work well.
  • Proper shell scoring: Cutting the shell helps heat penetrate evenly and makes eating easier.
  • Serve with warm melted butter: Add an extra side of melted butter for a classic indulgent touch.

Nutrition

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