Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce is a luxurious and flavorful seafood dish perfect for special occasions or elegant dinners at home. The tender, juicy lobster meat is enhanced with a rich blend of butter, garlic, and lemon, then grilled to perfection and finished with a drizzle of aromatic garlic butter. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that delivers both flavor and sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Elegant presentation with minimal preparation
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Juicy, tender lobster meat with a smoky grilled flavor
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Rich, buttery garlic-lemon sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of lobster
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Quick to cook and perfect for warm weather grilling
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Ideal for date nights, celebrations, or elevated dinners
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Can be paired with a variety of sides
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Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
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Customizable with different herbs or spices
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Versatile—can be grilled outdoors or indoors with a grill pan
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Impressive enough for entertaining guests
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 lobster tails
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Directions
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
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Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Carefully pull the meat upward, resting it on top of the shell without fully detaching it.
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In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat.
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Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side up. Close the lid and grill for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, firm, and slightly charred at the edges. Avoid overcooking.
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Remove the lobster tails from the grill and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes
Variations
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Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick
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Replace parsley with fresh thyme, dill, or chives for a different flavor profile
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Finish with a splash of white wine or a touch of Dijon mustard in the butter sauce
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Top with grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist
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Serve over pasta or risotto for a more substantial meal
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover lobster meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of extra butter. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the meat.
FAQs
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked?
The lobster meat will turn opaque and firm, with an internal temperature of 135–140°F (57–60°C).
Can I bake instead of grill the lobster tails?
Yes, you can bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes until the meat is opaque.
Do I need to butterfly the lobster tails before grilling?
Yes, butterflying helps the meat cook evenly and makes it easier to season and serve.
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What’s the best way to cut the lobster shells?
Use sharp kitchen shears to cut through the top shell lengthwise, being careful not to cut the meat.
What should I serve with grilled lobster tails?
Lemon rice, garlic butter pasta, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad are great options.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet when served with keto-approved sides.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes, make the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Should I flip the lobster tails while grilling?
No, keep them meat side up to avoid drying out the delicate lobster meat.
Conclusion
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce is a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. With its tender, juicy meat and rich, savory garlic butter, it’s a seafood lover’s dream. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious meal, this recipe promises an unforgettable dining experience. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy the elegance of fine dining from your own kitchen.
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Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauc
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce are a seafood lover’s dream—tender, smoky, and bursting with buttery garlic-lemon flavor. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for special occasions, date nights, or a luxurious dinner at home.
Ingredients
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4 lobster tails
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3 tablespoons butter, melted
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Chopped parsley, for garnis
Instructions
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Prepare the Lobster Tails:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently lift the meat out and rest it on top of the shell for even cooking and presentation. -
Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Season the Lobster:
Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat. -
Grill the Lobster:
Place the tails on the grill, meat side up. Close the lid and grill for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, firm, and slightly charred at the edges. -
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle with more garlic butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
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Don’t overcook—lobster turns rubbery quickly. Remove from grill as soon as it’s opaque and tender.
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For indoor cooking, broil the tails on high for 8–10 minutes instead.
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Pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, pasta, or a crisp white wine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Seafood
- Method: Grilling
