Easy Baked Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails: A Gourmet Delight at Home

Treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal with these Easy Baked Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails. This elegant dish features tender lobster meat smothered in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner, this recipe is as easy as it is impressive.

Ingredients

For the Lobster Tails:

• 4 lobster tails
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice (optional)

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the middle of the top shell, stopping before the tail fin. Gently loosen the meat from the shell and lift it over the top, keeping it attached at the base. Arrange the lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Season the Lobster Meat: Drizzle the lobster meat with olive oil, and lightly season with salt and black pepper.

2. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until fully liquid.
2. Combine Ingredients: Mix in the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Reserve a small amount for drizzling after baking.

3. Bake the Lobster Tails

1. Brush with Sauce: Generously brush the lobster meat with the lemon garlic butter sauce, ensuring it is well-coated.
2. Bake: Place the lobster tails in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook, as lobster can quickly become tough.

4. Garnish and Serve

1. Drizzle with Reserved Sauce: After baking, drizzle the reserved lemon garlic butter sauce over the lobster tails for added flavor.
2. Add Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the lobster.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Sides: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Surf and Turf: Combine with a grilled steak for an indulgent surf-and-turf experience.
• Light Option: Enjoy with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter, healthier pairing.

Tips for Success

• Fresh or Frozen Lobster Tails: Fresh lobster tails provide the best flavor, but frozen tails work well if properly thawed.
• Butterfly with Care: Ensure you cut the shell cleanly without slicing through the meat for a professional presentation.
• Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Overcooked lobster becomes rubbery, so check the meat regularly for doneness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy Baked Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails are a gourmet treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. The combination of buttery, garlicky goodness and zesty lemon enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, making this dish an unforgettable meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet with a splash of butter to retain moisture.

Creative Variations

• Herb Butter Lobster Tails: Add thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Cajun Lobster Tails: Mix Cajun seasoning into the sauce for a bold, spicy flavor.
• Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the lobster tails before baking for a cheesy finish.

Bring the luxury of fine dining into your own kitchen with this easy and flavorful recipe for Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish guarantees an unforgettable dining experience. Try it today and share your favorite pairings and customizations!