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Broiled Lobster Tail in Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

A delicious and easy recipe for broiled lobster tails topped with a creamy garlic butter sauce, perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Lobster Tails
  • 4 pieces lobster tails (6–8 oz / 170–225 g each), thawed if previously frozen
Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter or 1/4 cup butter + 1/4 cup olive oil for a lighter version
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk or Greek yogurt thinned with a splash of milk for lighter options
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for brightness
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or Gruyère optional, for a golden top
  • a pinch smoked paprika or cayenne optional, for warmth
  • lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your broiler to high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Prepare the lobster tails: With kitchen shears, cut along the top of each shell lengthwise from the open end to the base. Pry the shell open slightly and gently lift the lobster meat out, laying it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
  3. Remove the intestinal vein if visible and season the lobster meat lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the prepared tails on the foil-lined baking sheet.
Make the Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then whisk. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in lemon zest, salt, pepper, and half the parsley. Remove from heat. If using Parmesan, stir it into the sauce now.
Broil the Lobster
  1. Spoon or brush a generous amount of the creamy garlic butter sauce over each lobster tail, making sure the meat is well coated.
  2. Slide the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 6–10 minutes, watching closely to avoid overcooking.
Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven, spoon any remaining sauce over the meat, and sprinkle with the remaining parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
  2. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

If you prefer clarified butter (ghee), it resists browning under the broiler and works beautifully. This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 48 hours. Reheat gently in a 275°F oven for 8–10 minutes.