Creamy Lemon Butter Lobster Tails

Short Description

Creamy Lemon Butter Lobster Tails are a decadent seafood dish featuring tender, broiled lobster meat bathed in a rich, garlicky lemon butter cream sauce. Finished with Parmesan and fresh parsley, this elegant entrée is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or a luxurious date night at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Offers a gourmet dining experience with minimal effort.
Rich and Flavorful: The creamy lemon butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just over 20 minutes from start to finish.
Visually Impressive: The butterflied lobster presentation is stunning and sure to impress.
Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for holidays, anniversaries, or any time you want to elevate your meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 lobster tails
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
Juice of ½ lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
¾ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Prep the Lobster:
- Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top of the lobster shell lengthwise.
- Gently pull the meat out and rest it on top of the shell, keeping it attached at the base for a butterfly presentation.
Season the Tails:
- Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Broil the Lobster:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and lightly golden. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Prepare the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce:
- While the lobster is broiling, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the lemon juice, then pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve and Garnish:
- Remove lobster tails from the oven and place on serving plates.
- Spoon the lemon butter cream sauce generously over each tail.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories: Approximately 390 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for subtle heat.
Citrus Twist: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus profile.
Herbed Cream Sauce: Add fresh chopped thyme or tarragon to the sauce for added depth.
Surf and Turf: Pair with grilled steak or filet mignon for a luxurious main course.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or butter to prevent drying out.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the lobster and cream sauce may be compromised.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes. Make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before preparation.

What if I don’t have a broiler?

You can bake the lobster at 425°F (220°C) for 12–14 minutes instead, watching for doneness.

How do I know when the lobster is cooked?

The meat should be opaque and firm, with an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C).

Can I use pre-cooked lobster?

Yes, just warm the lobster and serve with the sauce. Skip the broiling step to avoid overcooking.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan?

You can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate the sauce up to a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

For best richness and texture, heavy cream is recommended. Milk will yield a thinner, less creamy sauce.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a light green salad.

Can I double the sauce recipe?

Absolutely. Simply scale the ingredients to suit your serving size.

Does this dish pair well with wine?

Yes, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Butter Lobster Tails are a luxurious seafood dish that delivers elegance, flavor, and indulgence in every bite. With minimal prep and stunning presentation, they’re perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve with your favorite sides and a glass of wine for an unforgettable dining experience.

[tasty-recipe id=”18189″]