Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lobster is often seen as a fancy or difficult-to-make dish, but this recipe makes it easy! Broiling the lobster ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, while the creamy garlic butter sauce adds a delicious richness that complements the sweet, delicate lobster meat. The combination of these elements makes for a dish that is both luxurious and easy to prepare.
Plus, the creamy garlic butter sauce is incredibly versatile and can also be used with other seafood or even vegetables, making this recipe a great go-to for various occasions.
Ingredients
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2 lobster tails
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons heavy cream
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your broiler on high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
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Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of each lobster tail, stopping at the tail fin. Gently pull apart the shell, and use your fingers to loosen the lobster meat, allowing it to sit on top of the shell.
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Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil, with the meat facing up.
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In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Spoon the creamy garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat, making sure to coat it evenly.
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Broil the lobster tails for 6-8 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and lightly browned on top. Be sure to check the lobster after 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
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Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people, making it a great option for a romantic dinner or a small gathering.
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Preparation time: 10 minutes
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Cooking time: 6-8 minutes
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Total time: 16-18 minutes
Variations
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Add cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the lobster meat before broiling. The cheese will melt and create a crispy, golden crust.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture to bring some heat to the dish.
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Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for a unique flavor twist in the garlic butter sauce.
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Other seafood options: If lobster isn’t your thing, this recipe can also work with shrimp, scallops, or even crab legs.
Storage/reheating
Lobster is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat:
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Storage: Allow the lobster to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1-2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. To prevent drying out, cover the lobster with foil. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture might not be as perfect as when freshly broiled.
FAQs
How do I know when lobster is done broiling?
Lobster is done when the meat turns opaque and firm. The internal temperature should reach 140°F. The lobster will also start to turn a slightly golden color when broiled.
Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before broiling. Thawing them in the fridge overnight is the best method.
Is it necessary to remove the lobster meat from the shell before broiling?
No, you don’t need to remove the lobster meat from the shell. The method in this recipe involves slightly loosening the meat and letting it sit on top of the shell, which helps cook the lobster evenly while keeping the shell intact for presentation.
Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat it before using it on the lobster.
Can I broil the lobster without the creamy garlic butter?
Yes, you can broil the lobster plain or with a drizzle of olive oil, but the creamy garlic butter sauce elevates the flavor and adds richness to the dish.
Can I cook lobster in the oven instead of broiling?
Yes, if you prefer not to broil, you can bake lobster at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm.
How can I tell if my lobster tail is undercooked?
Undercooked lobster will have translucent meat that is soft and rubbery. The meat should be firm and opaque when fully cooked.
Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of salt you add to the sauce to prevent it from becoming too salty.
Can I freeze lobster tails before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze lobster tails before cooking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and store them in an airtight container.
What should I serve with broiled lobster?
Broiled lobster pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Conclusion
Broiled Lobster with Creamy Garlic Butter is a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether for a special celebration or a delightful weekend dinner, this dish combines the sweetness of lobster with the richness of garlic butter for an unforgettable meal. With its simple yet indulgent ingredients, you’ll be able to recreate a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
Print
Broiled Lobster Creamy Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 16-18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 people
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Broiled Lobster with Creamy Garlic Butter is a luxurious, easy-to-make seafood dish perfect for any special occasion. The lobster is broiled to perfection and topped with a rich garlic butter sauce, making it an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re a lobster enthusiast or a first-timer, this restaurant-worthy dish is sure to impress. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and indulgent meal.
Ingredients
2 lobster tails
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat your broiler on high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
-
Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of each lobster tail, stopping at the tail fin. Gently pull apart the shell, and use your fingers to loosen the lobster meat, allowing it to sit on top of the shell.
-
Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil, with the meat facing up.
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In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Spoon the creamy garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat, making sure to coat it evenly.
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Broil the lobster tails for 6-8 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and lightly browned on top. Check after 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
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Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Notes
- Add grated parmesan cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the garlic butter mixture.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for a unique flavor profile.
- Can be made with shrimp, scallops, or crab legs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Seafood, Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American