If there is one dish that instantly transforms an ordinary weeknight into a luxurious celebration, it is perfectly cooked lobster. Forget the fuss, the complexity, and the intimidating price tag of high-end seafood restaurants we are bringing that elegance right into your kitchen with this incredibly simple, yet breathtakingly delicious, recipe for Garlic Butter Lobster Tails. This dish is the epitome of rich flavor and impressive presentation, pairing succulent, sweet lobster meat with a vibrant, punchy garlic butter sauce that will have you licking your fingers.
The secret to mastering seafood at home often lies in simplicity and quality ingredients, and this recipe delivers on both fronts. We use a straightforward baking method that guarantees tender, juicy results every single time, avoiding the pitfalls of rubbery, overcooked meat. By butterflying the tails, we not only create that classic, show-stopping presentation but also ensure maximum surface area for that gorgeous, aromatic garlic butter to infuse every bite. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a major holiday, or simply craving a taste of the extraordinary, these oven-baked Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are guaranteed to be the star of your table. Get ready to elevate your home cooking game and discover just how easy it is to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Lobster Tails
The allure of perfectly cooked Garlic Butter Lobster Tails is undeniable, but the reasons why this particular baked method stands out go far beyond just flavor. This recipe is designed for maximum impact with minimal effort, making it a culinary win for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
### Effortless Elegance and Presentation
One of the greatest joys of preparing this recipe is the incredible presentation achieved through the simple act of butterflying. When baked, the lifted, pristine white meat contrasts beautifully with the red shell, creating a visually stunning “mound” that looks like it came straight from a five-star kitchen. Unlike boiled or steamed lobster, which can sometimes look dull, our oven-baked Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are brushed with a vibrant, golden-hued sauce, ensuring they look as good as they taste. You will find that guests are instantly impressed, making this a perfect choice for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion where you want to add a touch of glamour without the added stress.
### The Irresistible Garlic Butter Sauce
Let’s be honest, the true magic lies in the garlic butter. Our sauce isn’t just melted butter; it’s a perfectly balanced blend of rich unsalted butter, sharp fresh lemon juice, finely minced garlic, and a hint of paprika and red pepper flakes for depth. The process involves infusing the butter with fresh garlic, allowing the aromatics to bloom without burning. We reserve half of the sauce for basting before baking, creating a savory crust, and the rest is brushed on immediately after they come out of the oven. This finishing touch allows the residual heat to carry the fresh garlic and lemon aromas straight to your nose and palate, delivering an explosion of buttery, savory flavor that defines high-quality seafood. This intense flavor profile is exactly why this preparation is often hailed as the best way to enjoy lobster.
### Reliable, Foolproof Cooking Method
Baking lobster tails provides a significant advantage over other methods like grilling or broiling: control. When broiling, it’s easy to scorch the exposed meat, and grilling requires constant attention. Baking at a consistent 400°F (200°C) allows the lobster meat to cook gently and evenly. By monitoring the internal temperature, you virtually eliminate the risk of overcooking, which is the nemesis of all seafood. The result is consistently moist, sweet, and delightfully firm never rubbery. This reliability makes Garlic Butter Lobster Tails a stress-free centerpiece, freeing you up to focus on perfecting your side dishes, perhaps a batch of [Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes](https://recipesebook.com/easy-garlic-mashed-potatoes/) or a simple garden salad.
Why You Should Try This Baked Garlic Butter Lobster Recipe Tonight
If you’ve hesitated to cook lobster at home, perhaps viewing it as too expensive or too difficult, this recipe is your invitation to conquer that fear. Learning to prepare Garlic Butter Lobster Tails is a culinary skill that pays dividends in dining satisfaction, and there are several compelling reasons why you should make this your next project.
### Achieving Restaurant Quality at Home for Less
One of the most motivating factors for trying this recipe is the vast savings compared to ordering lobster in a restaurant. The markup on lobster dishes at fine dining establishments is often substantial. By purchasing high-quality frozen or fresh cold-water lobster tails and preparing them yourself, you get the same, if not better, restaurant-quality seafood for a fraction of the cost. You control the quality of the butter, the freshness of the garlic, and the exact cooking time, ensuring a tailor-made, perfect meal. Mastering this dish means you can enjoy this decadent treat more frequently, transforming ordinary occasions into special ones without draining your budget.
### The Power of the Butterfly Technique
While the baking method is simple, the butterfly technique is what truly sets this recipe apart, and it’s surprisingly easy to execute. This preparation is essential because it allows the rich garlic butter to permeate the thickest parts of the meat during the baking process. When the meat is fully exposed and elevated above the shell, it cooks quickly and evenly, ensuring that the garlic butter flavors are evenly distributed.
Key Steps in Butterflying:
1. Shears are Key: Using sharp kitchen shears simplifies the cut down the center of the hard shell.
2. No Cut Through: The key is leaving the soft bottom shell intact.
3. Lift and Tuck: Gently pulling the meat out and resting it atop the closed shell halves ensures that beautiful height and perfect baking environment.
Once you master this butterflying technique, preparing impressive seafood becomes second nature. It takes less than two minutes per tail, but the results in both taste and visual appeal are monumental.
### Perfect Pairing Flexibility
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. Their rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile complements a wide array of sides. They pair beautifully with light, acidic whites like Sauvignon Blanc or heavier, buttery Chardonnays.
For side dishes, the possibilities are endless:
Starchy Sides: Creamy risotto, lemon pasta, or [Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes](https://recipesebook.com/easy-garlic-mashed-potatoes/).
Green Sides: A crisp Caesar salad, roasted asparagus, or savory [Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts](https://recipesebook.com/air-fryer-brussels-sprouts-the-ultimate-guide-to-crispy-perfection/).
Surf and Turf: If you’re going all out, serve these alongside a perfectly seared filet mignon.
Because the recipe is so fast only 12 to 15 minutes of bake time you can easily coordinate the rest of your meal prep to align perfectly, ensuring hot, fresh lobster every time. This speed and elegance solidify Garlic Butter Lobster Tails as a must-try dish for anyone looking to impress.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils: Mastering the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Success in making incredible Garlic Butter Lobster Tails starts with selecting the best ingredients and having the right tools on hand. This is not a complex recipe, but ingredient quality truly shines through, especially when dealing with delicate seafood.
High-Quality Lobster Tail Ingredients
The core of this dish relies on four medium-sized lobster tails. We highly recommend using cold-water lobster tails (such as Maine or Canadian) over warm-water varieties, as cold water yields sweeter, firmer meat.
#### For the Lobster Tails:
4 medium-sized cold-water lobster tails (about 4 to 5 ounces each): Size matters here. Tails that are too large (over 8 oz) may require significantly longer cook times, risking the meat drying out. 4-5 ounce tails are ideal for single servings and quick, even baking. Crucial Tip: Ensure the tails are fully thawed before preparation. Thaw them slowly overnight in the refrigerator, or for a faster method, place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for 30-45 minutes.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used solely for brushing the exposed meat before basting. This helps protect the delicate meat from direct heat and promotes a beautiful golden color. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil if possible.
Pinch of kosher salt: Essential seasoning. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper: Just a touch to add complexity to the surface seasoning.
#### For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
This sauce is the heart of the dish, creating the signature flavor of our Garlic Butter Lobster Tails. We are looking for a highly aromatic, slightly acidic, and savory sauce.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Unsalted butter allows you complete control over the final salinity of the dish. Use high-quality butter; since it’s a primary flavor component, the better the butter, the better the sauce.
6 cloves fresh garlic, minced very finely: The use of fresh garlic is non-negotiable. Jarred garlic often lacks the sharp, vibrant flavor needed here. Six cloves might sound like a lot, but this is a Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe, and you want that rich aroma! Mincing it finely ensures the flavor is released effectively into the melted butter.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: This bright acidic component is vital. It cuts through the richness of the butter and heightens the inherent sweetness of the lobster meat. Always use fresh juice bottled varieties taste flat and dull.
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped): Parsley adds visual appeal (the green flecks) and a mild, herbaceous freshness. If using fresh parsley, stir it in just before serving for maximum brightness.
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color): Paprika does little for the flavor but adds a beautiful, subtle reddish-orange hue to the butter sauce, making the finished Garlic Butter Lobster Tails look even more appealing.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Added to season the butter sauce itself.
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat): This is a wonderful addition if you like a little subtle warmth. It doesn’t make the dish spicy, but it adds another layer of flavor complexity.
Recommended Tools and Utensils
Having the correct equipment makes the preparation of these Garlic Butter Lobster Tails quick and safe, especially when butterflying the shells.
Sharp Kitchen Shears: Absolutely essential for butterflying the shell. Using a knife is much harder and riskier. Shears cut cleanly through the hard shell without damaging the meat inside.
Standard Baking Sheet: You need a sturdy sheet pan.
Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Recommended for lining the baking sheet. Lobster tails can sometimes leak a bit of buttery liquid during baking, and a liner ensures incredibly easy cleanup.
Small Saucepan or Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the butter and preparing the garlic sauce.
Small Silicone Basting Brush: Crucial for evenly coating the lobster meat with the oil and, more importantly, the garlic butter sauce. A silicone brush is easy to clean and distributes the sauce smoothly.
Cutting Board: For prepping the tails and mincing the garlic.
Instant-Read Meat Thermometer (Highly Recommended): The most reliable way to ensure the lobster is perfectly cooked (targeting 140°F to 145°F). Seafood cooks very quickly, and relying solely on visual cues can lead to overcooked, rubbery results. This tool is your insurance policy against expensive mistakes when cooking lobster.
Detailed Steps: Baking Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
This detailed process ensures your lobster tails are perfectly presented, infused with flavor, and cooked to sweet, tender perfection. Follow these steps precisely for success.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tails
1. Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This makes transferring the buttery tails easier and cleanup negligible.
2. Thaw and Dry: If your lobster tails were frozen, they must be fully thawed. Pat the tails completely dry using paper towels. Excess moisture can steam the lobster rather than allowing it to bake and absorb the butter flavor.
3. Butterfly the Shell (The Showstopper Technique): This step transforms the presentation.
Place one tail on your cutting board, shell-side up.
Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut lengthwise straight down the center of the hard top shell, starting near the thickest part and stopping just before you reach the tail fin.
Do not cut through the bottom soft shell. The bottom shell acts as a little serving boat.
4. Lift the Meat: Gently open the cut shell halves with your fingers. Use a spoon or your hands to carefully lift the lobster meat out of the shell incision. Leave the base of the meat still firmly attached near the tail fin.
5. Position the Meat: Close the empty shell halves beneath the exposed meat, then firmly press the meat down onto the closed shell. The result should be a beautiful, elevated mound of raw lobster meat resting proudly on top of the shell, ready to absorb the garlic butter.
6. Arrange: Transfer all the prepared Garlic Butter Lobster Tails to the lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
The perfect garlic butter sauce requires gentle heating to marry the flavors without burning the garlic.
1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over very low heat. Alternatively, use short bursts in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Infuse the Flavors: Once the butter is fully melted, immediately stir in the finely minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, parsley (dried or fresh), paprika (for color), 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and the optional red pepper flakes.
3. Do not cook the garlic in the butter for long, or it will brown and taste bitter. You want the heat of the melted butter to gently start infusing the garlic flavor.
4. Reserve: Set the sauce aside. It should remain warm and liquid, ready for basting.
Step 3: Season and Baste the Lobster
This step locks in moisture and flavor before the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails hit the oven.
1. Oil and Season: Lightly brush the exposed, raw lobster meat with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This is a crucial protective layer. Season the meat lightly with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
2. Initial Basting: Using a silicone brush, generously brush about half (or slightly more) of the prepared garlic butter mixture directly over the top and sides of the exposed lobster meat. Ensure the meat is thoroughly coated in the fragrant butter blend.
3. Reserve the Rest: Reserve the remaining garlic butter mixture. This will be used halfway through baking and again for serving.
Step 4: Bake the Lobster Tails to Perfection
Precise timing is the key to sweet, tender Garlic Butter Lobster Tails.
1. Bake: Place the baking sheet onto the center rack of the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven.
2. Initial Bake Time: Bake for approximately 8 minutes.
3. Mid-Bake Baste (Optional but recommended): After 8 minutes, pull the baking sheet out and quickly brush the tails again with a small portion of the reserved garlic butter. This adds another layer of flavor and moisture. Return them to the oven.
4. Check Doneness: Continue baking for another 4 to 7 minutes (total cooking time will be 12 to 15 minutes). The lobster meat is fully cooked when it turns opaque white (from translucent) and feels firm, but not hard, to the touch.
5. Use a Thermometer: For guaranteed success, use an instant-read thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for lobster is 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C), taken at the thickest part of the meat. Avoid overcooking, which is the leading cause of tough, rubbery lobster meat.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
1. Remove and Finish Baste: Remove the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails from the oven immediately upon reaching the desired temperature.
2. The Final Pour: Immediately brush the remaining, reserved garlic butter sauce over the hot lobster meat. The sizzling heat will help the buttery goodness melt and seep into every crevice, carrying those fresh garlic and lemon notes.
3. Serve: Transfer the finished Garlic Butter Lobster Tails to serving plates. Serve immediately while they are piping hot, perhaps alongside fresh lemon wedges for an optional extra squeeze of acid.
Tips, Variations, and Avoiding Common Mistakes with Garlic Butter Lobster
Achieving a perfect result with Garlic Butter Lobster Tails is easy when armed with a few simple tricks. Here are essential tips, delicious variations, and advice on how to sidestep common pitfalls.
### Ingredient Alternatives and Variations
While the classic recipe is divine, you can easily customize the flavor profile of your Garlic Butter Lobster Tails:
Spicy Cajun Lobster: Add 1/2 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning to the garlic butter sauce alongside the paprika and red pepper flakes. This adds a fantastic depth of spice and complexity.
Herbaceous Delight: Swap out the parsley for a blend of fresh tarragon (which pairs exceptionally well with seafood) or chives. Use 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped herbs stirred into the melted butter.
Smoky Flavor: Substitute the paprika for smoked paprika. This instantly adds a rich, smoky undertone that works beautifully, especially if you plan to serve the lobster with grilled steak (Surf & Turf).
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, relying on natural ingredients and preparation methods. No modifications are needed!
Dairy-Free/Vegan Variation (Lobster Meat Only): If cooking for someone avoiding dairy but still eating seafood, swap the unsalted butter for a high-quality vegan butter stick or refined coconut oil (which has a neutral flavor).
### Techniques and Troubleshooting
#### 1. Sourcing the Tails
Always aim for cold-water lobster tails. They are often sold frozen, which is ideal as they maintain quality until thawed right before cooking. Avoid buying pre-thawed tails from the counter, as you cannot guarantee how long they have been sitting.
#### 2. The Thawing Process
Never thaw lobster tails in the microwave or at room temperature. Quick thawing can harm the meat texture. The best method is overnight refrigeration. If you must speed it up, place them in a zip-top bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 15 minutes until thawed.
#### 3. Avoiding the Biggest Mistake: Overcooking
The most frequent mistake when cooking lobster is overcooking, which yields rubbery, flavorless meat. Lobster meat should be cooked gently until it is fully opaque white.
Rule of Thumb: Plan for about 1 minute of cook time per ounce of lobster tail. A 5-ounce tail should take approximately 12–15 minutes.
Use the Thermometer: If you only take one piece of advice, let it be this: Invest in an instant-read thermometer. Pull the tails from the oven the moment they register 140°F (60°C). They will continue cooking slightly (carry-over cooking) once removed, bringing them up to the perfect temperature of 145°F (63°C).
#### 4. Getting the Most Out of the Garlic Butter
The reserved butter is non-negotiable. Basting the hot lobster meat right after it comes out of the oven allows the freshest garlic and lemon flavor to melt instantly into the steaming meat. Do not skip this step!
For more exciting ways to utilize flavorful vegetables as side dishes, check out my board on Pinterest for inspiration: [Easy Dinner Side Dishes](https://www.pinterest.com/recipesebookblog/). (External Dofollow Link)
Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
While Garlic Butter Lobster Tails feel decadent, lobster itself is a highly nutritious protein source. When prepared correctly, this dish offers significant health benefits, particularly when substituting high-quality ingredients.
### Nutritional Breakdown (Per 4-5 oz Tail, Estimated)
Please note that exact nutritional values vary significantly based on the size of the tail and the exact amount of butter used.
| Component | Estimated Value | Key Benefits |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Calories | 250 – 350 kcal | Varies heavily based on butter usage. |
| Protein | 25 – 30 grams | Excellent source of complete protein for muscle repair and satiety. |
| Total Fat | 15 – 25 grams | Primarily from the butter and olive oil. |
| Saturated Fat | High (mostly from butter) | Use unsalted butter and control portion size. |
| Carbohydrates | Trace (less than 1 gram) | Naturally very low-carb and keto-friendly. |
| Cholesterol | Moderate to High | Lobster is known to be higher in dietary cholesterol. |
| Sodium | Moderate | Primarily from the kosher salt and the natural sodium content of seafood. |
### Health Benefits of Lobster and Key Ingredients
#### 1. High-Quality Protein Source
Lobster is an exceptionally lean source of high-quality protein, crucial for cell repair, immune function, and maintaining muscle mass. Unlike red meat, lobster meat is low in calories and saturated fat (before the addition of butter).
#### 2. Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Lobster tails are rich in several vital nutrients:
Selenium: A potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function.
Copper: Essential for energy production and iron absorption.
Zinc: Important for immune health and wound healing.
Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function and the production of red blood cells.
#### 3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Like many types of shellfish, lobster contains beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These healthy fats are essential for cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function. While the butter adds saturated fat, consuming these Garlic Butter Lobster Tails in moderation still provides access to these valuable marine nutrients.
#### 4. The Power of Garlic and Lemon
The garlic butter sauce adds nutritional boosts from its fresh ingredients:
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and active compounds (like allicin) linked to reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Lemon Juice: Provides Vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant, and aids in mineral absorption.
By choosing healthy sides such as a large portion of [Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts](https://recipesebook.com/air-fryer-brussels-sprouts-the-ultimate-guide-to-crispy-perfection/) instead of heavy starch you can create a well-balanced and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and luxurious.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions people ask when preparing Garlic Butter Lobster Tails at home, ensuring your cooking experience is seamless.
How do I know when my Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are done?
The easiest and most accurate way to check for doneness is using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the lobster meat should register between 140°F and 145°F (60°C to 63°C). Visually, the meat will change from translucent and grayish to opaque white and firm. Overcooked lobster will be tough and rubbery, so check early and often!
Should I use fresh or frozen lobster tails for Garlic Butter Lobster Tails?
For the best results, it is generally recommended to buy high-quality cold-water lobster tails that are individually flash-frozen. These retain better texture and sweetness than fresh tails that may have been sitting on ice for days. Ensure they are fully thawed slowly in the refrigerator before using this recipe.
Can I use less garlic in the garlic butter sauce?
While this recipe calls for six cloves to achieve that strong, classic Garlic Butter Lobster Tails flavor, you can certainly reduce the amount if you prefer a milder taste. However, we highly recommend using fresh garlic, as garlic powder or jarred minced garlic will not provide the same rich aroma or depth of flavor.
What is the best way to butterfly lobster tails?
The best method involves using sharp kitchen shears to cut down the center of the hard top shell, stopping before the tail fin and leaving the bottom shell intact. Gently pull the meat up through the incision and press the shell closed underneath. This creates the optimal presentation and exposure for the garlic butter, ensuring even cooking.
Can I grill or broil these lobster tails instead of baking them?
Yes, you can broil or grill these Garlic Butter Lobster Tails, but monitor them closely! If broiling, place them 6-8 inches from the heat source and bake for only 8-10 minutes, watching carefully for scorching. If grilling, place them shell-side down over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, basting frequently with the garlic butter to keep them moist.
How should I serve Garlic Butter Lobster Tails?
Serve them immediately, drizzled with the residual melted garlic butter from the pan or a final application of the reserved sauce. They pair beautifully with simple starchy sides like rice pilaf or mashed potatoes, and green vegetables such as asparagus or roasted green beans. Always include a fresh lemon wedge on the plate for a final burst of freshness.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
You now hold the definitive guide to creating flawless Garlic Butter Lobster Tails a dish that rivals any expensive restaurant entree, yet is entirely achievable in your own kitchen. We’ve covered everything from selecting the best cold-water tails and mastering the elegant butterflying technique, to perfecting that irresistible, vibrant garlic butter sauce.
Remember, the keys to success are simple: quality ingredients, precise technique, and most importantly, not overcooking the meat. The reliable 400°F (200°C) oven temperature and the use of an instant-read thermometer are your insurance policy, guaranteeing sweet, tender results every single time. The aromatic blend of fresh garlic, rich butter, and tart lemon not only infuses the lobster with incredible flavor but also fills your home with an intoxicating aroma that signals a truly special meal is about to begin.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a holiday feast, or simply treating yourself to something luxurious, these oven-baked Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are the perfect centerpiece. They deliver maximum flavor and visual impact with minimum fuss. Don’t let this recipe be a one-time affair; incorporate this easy elegance into your regular rotation.
If you enjoyed creating this incredible seafood dish, please share this recipe with friends and family who deserve a little luxury! We love hearing about your culinary adventures, so be sure to leave a comment below telling us how your Garlic Butter Lobster Tails turned out, and what delicious sides you paired them with. Happy cooking, and enjoy the taste of true extravagance!
Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. If the tails were frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels.
- To butterfly the tails, place one tail on a cutting board, shell-side up. Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut lengthwise straight down the center of the hard top shell, stopping just before you reach the tail fin. Do not cut through the bottom soft shell.
- Gently open the shell with your fingers and use a spoon or your hands to carefully lift the lobster meat out of the shell incision. Leave the base of the meat still attached near the tail fin. Close the shell halves beneath the meat, then press the meat down onto the closed shell, creating a beautiful mound of lobster meat resting on top of the shell. Transfer the prepared lobster tails to the lined baking sheet.
- In a small, microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat or in short microwave bursts.
- Once the butter is melted, stir in the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, parsley, paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set the sauce aside.
- Lightly brush the exposed lobster meat with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the meat lightly with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Generously brush about half of the prepared garlic butter mixture directly over the top and sides of the exposed lobster meat. Reserve the remaining garlic butter mixture for basting and serving.
- Bake the lobster tails onto the center rack of the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. The meat is fully cooked when it turns opaque white and feels firm to the touch (internal temperature should be 140°F to 145°F or 60°C to 63°C).
- Remove the lobster tails from the oven. Immediately brush the remaining garlic butter sauce over the hot lobster meat. Transfer the Garlic Butter Lobster Tails to serving plates and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
