Name: d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: four 4–6 ounce lobster tails, thawed from frozen; ½ cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated; 1 lemon, zested; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ground black pepper, to season; kosher salt, to season lobster meat; ground black pepper, to season lobster meat; grilled lemon wedges, for serving (optional); finely chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 25 reviews

If you’re craving a luxurious seafood treat that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make, then you are going to fall head over heels for these d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter. This recipe perfectly balances the sweet, tender lobster meat with a rich, buttery sauce infused with bright lemon zest and aromatic garlic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your dinner guests, these lobster tails grilled to perfection offer a burst of flavor that’s sure to wow every palate.

d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role, coming together in harmony to create that unforgettable flavor. With only four main components, you’ll see how each one adds a unique touch to the dish—whether it’s the lusciousness of butter, the zing of lemon, or the savory depth of garlic.

Four 4–6 ounce lobster tails: Choose thawed tails for ease, ensuring tender, juicy meat that’s ready to soak up flavors.
½ cup unsalted butter: The creamy base that carries garlic and lemon flavors, keeping your lobster moist and rich.
Two cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated: Fresh garlic adds a pungent warmth that perfectly complements lobster’s sweetness.
One lemon, zested: Lemon zest delivers a bright citrus punch that elevates the butter and cuts through richness.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything to life and enhance the natural lobster taste.
Optional garnishes: Grilled lemon wedges and finely chopped fresh chives add color and a fresh finish.

How to Make d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Start by heating your grill to medium-high direct heat, aiming for a temperature between 450 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat is crucial for giving your lobster tails a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the meat succulent. Once heated, make sure to clean your grill with a wire brush so your lobster doesn’t stick and gets those irresistible grill marks.

Step 2: Prep the Lobster Tails

Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of each lobster tail’s top shell, going all the way to the fin—but be cautious, you only want to cut the shell, not the meat. Then, gently pry open the shell like a book to expose the meat inside. This part can be a bit tricky, especially with the sharp shells, so cracking the bottom shell first might help ease the process. When you’ve revealed the lobster meat, separate it gently from the shell with your fingers and season it generously with kosher salt. This seasoning step ensures the natural flavors are enhanced right from the start.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter

While your grill heats up, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter starts bubbling, stir in the chopped garlic and lemon zest. Season this mixture with half a teaspoon of kosher salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Allow the butter to cook for a couple more minutes, stirring occasionally, just until it becomes fragrant and slightly thickened. This aromatic butter will be the star sauce that brings the whole dish together.

Step 4: Grill the Lobster Tails

Place the lobster tails on the preheated grill with the cut side facing up and close the lid. Let them cook for about 4 to 6 minutes, then generously baste the exposed lobster meat with the prepared lemon garlic butter. Using tongs, flip the tails cut side down and grill for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the meat’s internal temperature reaches 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This timing is roughly one minute per ounce on each side, but keep an eye out to avoid overcooking. Once done, flip the tails again, baste one more time with the flavorful butter, and remove them from the grill—your d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter are now ready.

Step 5: Serve with a Final Touch

Before serving, give the lobster tails one last generous brushing of that lemon garlic butter. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh chives over the top and offer grilled lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus freshness. The combination of buttery, garlicky lobster with a hint of lemon is pure magic on the plate.

How to Serve d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives not only adds a pop of lively green color but also imparts a subtle oniony flavor that complements the richness of the butter. Grilled lemon wedges are another fantastic touch, giving guests the option to add extra zesty brightness right at the table, making every bite exciting and fresh.

Side Dishes

To make your meal feel complete, serve these lobster tails alongside simple yet flavorful sides like garlic roasted asparagus, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette. Each accompaniment offers contrasting textures and flavors that highlight the lusciousness of the lobster without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable presentation, try serving the lobster tails on a bed of wilted spinach or alongside lemon-infused risotto. You could even plate them with edible flowers and a drizzle of the lemon garlic butter to create a dish that looks as stunning as it tastes. Perfect for impressing guests or making any meal feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to keep the lobster meat separate from the butter sauce if possible, so the texture stays ideal and the flavors don’t become muddled.

Freezing

Lobster is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze leftovers, wrap the lobster tails tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month to maintain the best texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully.

Reheating

To reheat your d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter without drying them out, steam the lobster meat gently or warm it in the oven at a low temperature around 275 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely in foil. Reheat the lemon garlic butter on the stovetop separately and baste the lobster tails once warmed through. This method restores moisture and flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster tails work perfectly as long as you thaw them completely before cooking. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight maintains the best texture and ensures even cooking on the grill.

How do I know when lobster tails are fully cooked?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer—the lobster meat is done when it reaches 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit internally. The meat should be opaque and firm but still tender and moist.

Can I bake the lobster tails instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, place the prepared lobster tails in a baking dish, baste with the lemon garlic butter, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until the meat is opaque and cooked through.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon zest? Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon zest is preferred for its intense, aromatic oils that complement the butter wonderfully. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch but won’t provide the same bright citrus kick and may alter the texture of the butter sauce.

Is there a way to add some heat to the lemon garlic butter?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the butter while cooking gives a subtle spicy kick that pairs beautifully with lobster’s sweetness without overpowering it.

Final Thoughts

Making d Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter is one of those rare recipes that feel indulgent but come together so simply that anyone can master it. The combination of buttery richness, zesty lemon, and garlic charm makes every bite pure delight. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this stunning seafood feast—you won’t regret it!