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Perfect Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

garlic butter grilled lobster tails - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for luxurious garlic butter grilled lobster tails that delivers juicy, buttery, and flavorful results perfect for special dinners or treating yourself.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized lobster tails (about 68 oz / 170225 g each), thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the lobster shells before grilling)

Instructions

  1. Prep the lobster tails (10 minutes): Using sharp scissors, carefully cut down the top of the shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat upward, resting it on top of the shell for even cooking and easier butter absorption.
  2. Make the garlic butter sauce (5 minutes): In a small bowl, mix melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika (if using), chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk until combined and aromatic.
  3. Preheat the grill (5-10 minutes): Heat to medium-high, about 375°F (190°C). Brush the lobster shells lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage even grilling.
  4. Grill the lobster tails (8-10 minutes): Place lobster tails meat-side up on the grill. Baste generously with garlic butter. Close the lid and cook until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch, about 4-5 minutes. Then, baste again and finish cooking with the lid open for another 4-5 minutes, basting occasionally. Internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
  5. Rest and serve (2 minutes): Remove from grill, spoon remaining garlic butter over the lobster, and let rest briefly. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Notes

Watch out for overcooking as lobster meat turns rubbery quickly. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Keep extra garlic butter for dipping. If no grill is available, broil lobster tails meat-side up for 5-7 minutes, basting halfway. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid toughness.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter, grilled lobster tails, seafood, easy dinner, luxurious dinner, quick recipe, summer grilling