1. Prepare the Lobster Tails

To start, use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise down the center. Be careful not to cut all the way through the tail. Once you’ve cut the shell, gently pull it apart, exposing the lobster meat. You can also carefully pull the meat up and out of the shell, leaving the tail end intact for an elegant presentation. If desired, you can also use your knife to remove any veins or impurities from the lobster meat.

Once the lobster tails are prepared, gently season the meat with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

2. Make the Cowboy Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir the ingredients together until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon will create the base of your cowboy butter sauce.

Add fresh thyme leaves to the butter mixture and stir to incorporate. Continue to cook for another minute or so, allowing the butter to soak up all the wonderful flavors. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside while you prepare the lobster tails for cooking.

3. Preheat the Oven or Grill

For broiling: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high heat. Make sure your oven rack is positioned about 6 inches from the heat source.

For grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.

4. Brush the Lobster Tails with Cowboy Butter

Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet or grill pan. Using a basting brush, generously coat the lobster meat with the cowboy butter sauce. Be sure to cover the lobster evenly, allowing the butter to sink into the crevices of the meat.

If you’re broiling the lobster tails, transfer them to the preheated oven, and place the baking sheet under the broiler. If you’re grilling, carefully place the lobster tails on the grill, shell-side down.

5. Cook the Lobster Tails

• For broiling: Broil the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster meat turns opaque and is slightly firm to the touch. You may want to baste them once or twice with more cowboy butter during the broiling process to keep them moist and flavorful.

• For grilling: Grill the lobster tails for 6-8 minutes per side, turning them over halfway through the cooking process. Keep an eye on the tails, as grilling times can vary depending on the size of the lobster tails and the heat of the grill.

The lobster is done when it is opaque, slightly firm, and a little golden on top. Be careful not to overcook the lobster, as it can become tough and rubbery.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the oven or grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle any leftover cowboy butter sauce over the lobster tails and garnish with fresh parsley. For added freshness, serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the lobster meat.

These Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails are perfect for serving immediately as a main dish or an indulgent appetizer. Pair with your favorite sides, and enjoy the rich, buttery flavors with every bite.