What is the best way to cook lobster tail at home?

The most popular methods include broiling, baking, steaming, and grilling for a juicy, tender result.

How long does it take to cook lobster tail?

Cooking time depends on the method, but generally, broiling takes 8–10 minutes, baking 12–15 minutes, and steaming 6–8 minutes for a 5-6 oz tail.

Can I grill lobster tail?

Absolutely! Brush with garlic butter and grill shell-side down over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes.

How do I properly butterfly a lobster tail?

Use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell, gently pull the meat out, and rest it on top while keeping it attached at the base.

What’s the best seasoning for lobster tail?

Garlic butter, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and parsley enhance the natural sweetness of lobster.

How to Make the Best Lobster Tail Recipe at Home

Name: Lobster Tail Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lobster tails (5–6 oz each); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges, for serving

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lobster Tails:

2 lobster tails (5–6 oz each)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen scissors, cut the top of the shell lengthwise down the middle.
- Gently pull the lobster meat out and rest it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base (this is called butterflying).
Preheat the Oven:
- For broiling: Set the oven to broil (high heat, 500°F/260°C).
- For baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Lobster:
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat.
Cook the Lobster:
- Broil: Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for 8–10 minutes, until the meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 135–140°F (57–60°C).
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Grill: Place lobster tails shell-side down and grill for 5–7 minutes with the lid closed.
Serve Immediately:
- Drizzle with extra garlic butter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra juiciness: Baste with additional garlic butter halfway through cooking.
Avoid overcooking: Lobster meat becomes rubbery if overcooked, so use a thermometer for accuracy.
Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Best sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.

Author: Chef EL
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 10
Category: Main Course
Method: Broiling, Baking, or Grilling
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Lobster Tail
Calories: 210 kcal
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 150mg