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Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Restaurant-quality baked lobster tails drenched in rich garlic lemon butter sauce, ready in under 30 minutes with foolproof butterflying technique.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lobster tails 4-6 ounces each, thawed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • Kitchen shears
  • Small bowl
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Butterfly the lobster tails: Using sharp kitchen shears, cut lengthwise through the top center of the shell, stopping at the tail fin. Gently separate the shell and carefully lift the meat, leaving it attached at the base. Place the meat on top of the shell.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until evenly combined.
  4. Place the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter sauce.
  5. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and firm, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
  6. Optional: For extra color, switch to broil for the final 1-2 minutes and baste with more butter. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra melted butter for dipping.

Notes

Do not overcook as it results in tough, rubbery texture. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Cold-water lobster tails recommended. Thaw frozen tails in refrigerator for 24 hours or cold water for 30-60 minutes. Serves 2 as main course or 4 as part of larger meal.
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