Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Ingredients

For the Lobster Tails

• 2 large lobster tails (4–6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. If your lobster tails are frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. You can also place them in a sealed bag and thaw them in cold water.
2. Pat the lobster tails dry using paper towels.
3. Using sharp kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top of each lobster shell lengthwise, starting near the open end and stopping before the tail fin.
4. Gently loosen the meat from the shell using your fingers, keeping the tail end attached. Lift the meat slightly and rest it on top of the shell. This technique is called butterflying and gives the lobster a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk everything together until well combined.
3. The garlic butter mixture will provide flavor and moisture while the lobster cooks.

Step 3: Season the Lobster

1. Arrange the prepared lobster tails in a baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet.
2. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the exposed lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture.
3. Make sure the butter reaches the edges of the meat for even flavor.
4. Sprinkle a little additional paprika over the top for beautiful color.
5. Allow the lobster tails to sit for approximately 5 minutes while the oven preheats.

Step 4: Cook the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the lobster tails in the oven and bake for approximately 8–12 minutes, depending on their size and thickness.
3. The lobster meat should become opaque, tender, and lightly firm when cooked.
4. Use a food thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat. Lobster should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Avoid overcooking because lobster meat can become tough and rubbery.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

1. While the lobster is cooking, prepare the creamy sauce.
2. Place a small saucepan over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
3. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Avoid browning or burning the garlic.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and a little salt.
6. Continue stirring over low heat for approximately 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Do not allow the sauce to boil vigorously because this can affect its texture.
8. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 6: Add the Creamy Sauce

1. Remove the cooked lobster tails from the oven.
2. Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce generously over the exposed lobster meat.
3. Allow some of the sauce to settle around the shells for an attractive presentation.
4. If desired, return the lobster tails to the oven for another 1–2 minutes to warm the sauce. Do not cook them long enough to overcook the meat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the lobster tails to serving plates.
2. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Add lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing citrus touch.
4. Serve immediately while warm, with extra creamy sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 510 kcal · Protein: 36 g · Fat: 38 g · Carbohydrates: 5 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 23 g · Fiber: 0 g · Sugar: 2 g · Sodium: 720 mg