The Ultimate Garlic Butter Broiled Lobster Tails
A Five-Star Dining Experience Right in Your Kitchen
There is no culinary symbol of luxury quite like succulent lobster tails bathed in a golden, shimmering garlic butter sauce. Often reserved for high-end steakhouses, the secret is that you can achieve that same buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and charred, caramelized finish at home. Whether it’s a Valentine’s dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is the definitive choice for the freshest coastal flavors.
The Essential Ingredients
- 4 Cold-Water Lobster Tails (5-6 oz each): Chosen for their superior sweetness and firm texture compared to warm-water varieties.
- 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter (Melted): This acts as the primary fat source, keeping the meat moist and tender under high heat.
- 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced): Provides a pungent, aromatic base that cuts through the richness of the butter.
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice: The acidity brightens the dish and balances the savory fats.
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful golden-red hue to the finished crust.
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, earthy finish and a vibrant pop of color.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Critical to enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Use sharp kitchen shears to cut down the center of the top shell. Gently spread the shell and pull the meat upward to rest on top of the shell for a stunning presentation.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Glaze: Whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and half the parsley to create a flavor-infused emulsion.
- Season and Baste: Place tails on a rimmed baking sheet. Generously brush the garlic butter over the meat and season with kosher salt and pepper.
- The Broiling Process: Set your oven to Broil (High). Position the rack 6 inches from the heat. Broil for 5 to 8 minutes (roughly 1 minute per ounce) until the meat is opaque and white.
- Final Touch: Baste one last time halfway through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with charred lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lobster
To ensure restaurant-quality results, remember these three rules:
- Thaw Completely: Broiling frozen meat leads to a rubbery texture.
- Monitor Closely: Overcooked lobster becomes tough; watch for that vibrant red shell.
- Internal Temp: Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for the perfect bite.
Serving Suggestions
Complete your gourmet seafood meal with these perfect pairings:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Ideal for soaking up extra infused butter sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: Provides a crisp, charred contrast to the rich lobster.
- Buttery Chardonnay: Complements the natural sweetness of the shellfish.