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Perfect Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Brown Butter

grilled lobster tails - featured image

Tender, smoky lobster tails grilled to perfection and served with a rich garlic brown butter sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for special dinners or a luxurious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized lobster tails (68 oz / 170225 g each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 g)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin to expose the meat while keeping the shell intact.
  2. Gently pry the lobster meat upward and out of the shell with your fingers, resting it on top of the shell to help it cook evenly and absorb the butter sauce.
  3. Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika over the exposed meat.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (205°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing red with a light layer of ash.
  5. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch closely as it foams and begins to brown (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and half the parsley.
  6. Place lobster tails shell side down on the grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes, then flip meat side down for an additional 2-3 minutes until the meat is opaque and firm but juicy. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 140°F (60°C) if unsure.
  7. Remove lobster tails from the grill and immediately brush generously with garlic brown butter. Sprinkle remaining parsley on top and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

Keep an eye on the butter to prevent burning by reducing heat if necessary. Do not overcook the lobster to avoid rubbery texture. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. If grilling indoors, a cast-iron grill pan is a good alternative but will lack smoky flavor. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and toasted nut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled lobster tails, garlic brown butter, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, summer barbecue, special dinner, quick seafood