Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

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Baked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

An easy and elegant seafood recipe perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner at home.

My husband is from New England, and we visit a few times a year — especially in summer, when lobster feasts are a cherished family tradition. While I adore claw meat, most of our crew prefers the tender, meaty tails. After trying several cooking methods, I’ve discovered that baking lobster tails in a covered dish with a bit of water yields the juiciest, most flavorful results — no boiling pots or steamers required!

This method creates a gentle steam environment, keeping the lobster moist while concentrating its flavor. Paired with a quick lemon-garlic butter sauce, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No need for a steamer or grill
  • Juicy, tender lobster every time
  • Just 5 simple ingredients
  • Perfect for date nights, holidays, or celebrations

Ingredients

Serves 4 | Prep Time: 15–20 min | Cook Time: 20–27 min

  • 4 (about 8-ounce) lobster tails, thawed if frozen
  • 1 medium lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 5 sprigs fresh parsley (about 1 tablespoon, finely chopped)
  • 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup water (for baking dish)

Instructions

1. Thaw the Lobster Tails

If using frozen tails, place them on a plate or baking sheet and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425ºF. Add ¾ cup water to the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Butterfly the Tails

Using kitchen shears, cut lengthwise through the top shell of each tail, stopping at the base. Gently lift the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell. Then, cut the meat lengthwise (without cutting through the bottom shell) and open like a book. Flip and flatten gently.

4. Bake

Arrange the tails flesh-side up in the prepared dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20–27 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 135–140ºF.

5. Make Garlic Butter

While the lobster bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant (not browned). Remove from heat. Stir in parsley, lemon juice (about 2 teaspoons), and salt.

6. Serve

Transfer the baked tails to plates. Drizzle with lemon-garlic butter and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips & Storage

  • Make Ahead: You can butterfly the lobster tails up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to bake.
  • Storage: Leftover lobster meat can be removed from the shells and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

What to Serve with Baked Lobster Tails

Pair your lobster with one or two of these easy and elegant sides:

  • Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
  • Creamy Parmesan Risotto
  • Steamed Asparagus with Olive Oil and Lemon Zest
  • Roasted Broccolini or Green Beans
  • Crusty Artisan Bread
  • Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

For a truly decadent meal, serve with a glass of sparkling water and a light dessert like lemon sorbet or fruit parfaits.

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