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Perfect Broiled Lobster Tail Recipe with Easy Garlic Herb Butter

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A quick and easy broiled lobster tail recipe featuring a luscious garlic herb butter glaze that enhances the lobster’s natural sweetness. Perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized lobster tails (68 ounces / 170225 grams each), thawed if frozen
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced fresh
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (flat-leaf preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for brushing the lobster tails)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches (15 cm) from the heat source. Let it warm up for at least 5 minutes.
  2. Using sharp kitchen scissors, cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell apart and carefully pull the lobster meat upward to lay it on top of the shell.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until smooth and fragrant.
  4. Lightly brush the exposed lobster meat with olive oil to prevent sticking. Generously spread the garlic herb butter all over the meat.
  5. Place the lobster tails on a broiler-safe pan or skillet. Broil for about 8-10 minutes, basting once midway with more garlic herb butter if available. The lobster is done when the meat is opaque, firm to touch, and lightly browned on top.
  6. Check doneness carefully to avoid overcooking. If using a meat thermometer, aim for 140°F (60°C).
  7. Let the lobster tails rest for a minute or two before serving. Spoon any leftover garlic herb butter from the pan over the meat for extra flavor.

Notes

Thaw lobster tails overnight in the fridge or under cold running water for 30 minutes for even cooking. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning. Line pan with foil for easy cleanup. Butter can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 2 days. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and coconut oil blend. Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: broiled lobster tail, garlic herb butter, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, quick lobster dinner, special occasion seafood