Description

This Butter-Basted Broiled Lobster Tails recipe features succulent lobster meat brushed generously with a flavorful mixture of melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and smoked paprika, then broiled to perfection. The broiling method gives the lobster a slightly golden finish while keeping it juicy and tender. Perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion, this recipe serves four and offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy luxurious seafood at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Lobster Tails

4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)

Butter Basting Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Garnish

Lemon wedges (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat Broiler: Preheat the broiler to high heat and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source to ensure even and effective broiling.
Prepare Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top of each lobster tail shell, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the lobster meat out of the shell while keeping it attached at the base, then rest the meat on top of the shell for an attractive presentation.
Arrange Lobster on Baking Sheet: Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper to catch drippings and make cleanup easy.
Make Butter Basting Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all flavors.
Brush Lobster Meat: Generously brush the lobster meat with the butter mixture, reserving some for basting during cooking to enhance flavor and moisture.
Broil Lobster Tails: Broil the lobster tails for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the meat turns opaque and achieves a slightly golden color on top. Halfway through cooking, baste the lobster with the reserved butter mixture to keep it moist and flavorful.
Rest Lobster: Remove the lobster tails from the broiler and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the lobster tails with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving immediately. Enjoy this delicious seafood dish at its best!

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails as they can become tough and rubbery; watch for the opaque and slightly golden sign.
Keeping the lobster meat attached at the base helps maintain presentation and ease when eating.
Use fresh lemon juice and parsley for the best bright and fresh flavors.
Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be adjusted to taste or substituted with regular paprika.
Broiling position is important; too close may burn the lobster, too far may undercook it.
The butter basting method keeps the lobster juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.