Description
Lobster tails are baked to perfection and bathed in a decadent garlic butter sauce. This easy-to-make, yet elegant dish is bursting with flavor, making it the ultimate treat for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails:
- 4 lobster tails (6–8 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon white wine (for extra flavor depth)
Instructions
Start by preparing the lobster tails. Use kitchen scissors to carefully cut down the center of the top of each lobster tail shell, cutting all the way down to the tail but not through it. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat. Use your hands to loosen the lobster meat from the shell, leaving the end of the lobster tail intact, so it stays in the shell but is elevated above it. This presentation makes the lobster look even more appealing when serving.
Once the lobster meat is lifted out, season the lobster tails with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will help enhance the natural flavor of the lobster.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help roast the lobster tails quickly and evenly, ensuring they stay juicy and tender without drying out.
Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet or shallow roasting pan, ensuring that the lobster meat is slightly elevated. You can use crumpled foil or a wire rack to hold the tails in place if necessary.
While the lobster tails are roasting, it’s time to prepare the creamy garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
If you like a little spice, add the crushed red pepper flakes at this point. Stir to combine the garlic and spices. If you prefer a slightly more refined flavor, add 1 tablespoon of white wine and cook for an additional minute to reduce and infuse the sauce with more depth.
Next, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Stir continuously to combine the ingredients, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The result should be a smooth, creamy sauce that’s rich and flavorful. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the oven is preheated, place the lobster tails in the oven and roast them for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the lobster tails. The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch, but not overcooked, which will make the lobster rubbery.
While the lobster tails are roasting, you can periodically baste the meat with the creamy garlic butter sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the oven. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter sauce. Make sure the lobster is fully coated, and if any sauce remains, pour it over the lobster tails.
Once the lobster tails are coated with the sauce, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately while the lobster is still hot. You can pair the lobster tails with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Your Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are now ready to enjoy. Savor the richness of the creamy butter sauce, the tenderness of the lobster, and the beautiful combination of garlic and lemon. This dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, and it’s perfect for creating lasting memories.