Garlic-Butter Broiled Lobster Tails in 20 Minutes
These broiled lobster tails deliver big payoff with surprisingly little effort. Uncooked lobster tails are butterflied, brushed with garlicky paprika-spiked butter, and broiled on high until perfectly cooked. Elegant, flavorful, and on the table in 20 minutes, this gluten-free dinner is perfect for celebrations or anytime you want something special at home.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 145kcal
Ingredients
- 4 (6-8oz) lobster tails uncooked and butterflied
- 4 Tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
- ½ lemon juiced, about 2 Tbsp (30ml)
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- Fresh parsley finely chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Clarified butter optional, for serving
- Serving ideas: Corn on the cob, mashed or boiled potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple salad.
Instructions
- Preheat a broiler to high, then place an oven rack about 6 inches from the heating unit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, then place the butterflied lobster tails on top.
- Make butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 4 Tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, then stir in 2 Tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice, 3 chopped garlic cloves, and ½ tsp sweet paprika. Brush the melted butter on top of each lobster tail.
- Broil the lobster tails. Broil so that the top of the lobster tail is about 4-5 inches from the heat for 7-10 minutes on high, depending on the size of the tail. Remove, then brush with additional melted butter. Serve immediately with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- How to butterfly lobster tails: Cut down the center of the shell and meat (don’t cut through the tail fins). Gently loosen meat from the shell, spread the shell open like a book, and lift the meat on top, keeping it attached at the base. If needed, flip and crack the shell slightly to help open.
- Cooking & doneness: Cook about 1–1½ minutes per ounce under a high broiler. Lobster is done at 135–140°F / 57–60°C. Avoid overcooking—it turns tough fast.
- Frozen tails: Fine to use—thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Storage & reheating: Best day-of. Refrigerate leftovers airtight up to 2 days. Reheat gently by steaming 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
- Buying tips: Choose tails that smell fresh (not fishy), aren’t slimy, and show no discoloration.
- Serving size: Plan 1 lobster tail (6–8 oz) per person (more if using smaller tails).
Nutrition
Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 204mg | Potassium: 132mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 478IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 0.3mg
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