Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Herb Butter

Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Herb Butter is the ultimate elegant yet approachable seafood dish, perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Grilling lobster enhances its natural sweetness with a subtle smoky flavor, while the rich garlic herb butter melts into the tender meat, creating a luxurious bite every time.

Despite its restaurant-quality appeal, this recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare at home. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a gourmet seafood experience that feels indulgent, impressive, and deeply satisfying without complicated techniques.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal ingredients. The natural sweetness of lobster shines through, complemented perfectly by the aromatic garlic herb butter without being overpowered.

Another reason this recipe is a favorite is how quickly it comes together. In under 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that feels celebratory and refined, making it ideal for both weeknight splurges and special dinners.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it turns a luxurious ingredient into an easy, foolproof meal. Grilling brings out incredible flavor while keeping the lobster juicy and tender.

It’s also incredibly versatile and impressive. Whether you’re hosting guests, planning a romantic dinner, or celebrating a holiday, grilled lobster tails always make the occasion feel special.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Seafood

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails (5–6 oz each)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Directions

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
• Using kitchen shears, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise.
• Gently pull the lobster meat up to rest on top of the shell.
• Mix melted butter, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Brush lobster meat generously with garlic herb butter.
• Grill lobster tails shell-side down until meat is opaque and lightly charred.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
Step 2: Cut the lobster shell lengthwise and gently lift the meat above the shell.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Brush the lobster meat generously with the butter mixture.
Step 5: Place lobster tails on the grill, shell-side down.
Step 6: Grill for 10–12 minutes, basting occasionally, until the meat turns opaque.
Step 7: Remove from grill and rest for 2 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve grilled lobster tails hot with extra garlic herb butter and fresh lemon wedges. Pair them with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad. For an elevated meal, serve alongside garlic bread or a light pasta dish.

Recipe Tips

Do not overcook the lobster—opaque and firm is perfect.
Always grill shell-side down to protect the delicate meat.
Baste frequently for extra moisture and flavor.

Variations

Spicy Garlic Butter: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
Parmesan Crusted Lobster: Sprinkle grated Parmesan during the last minute of grilling.
Citrus Herb Lobster: Use orange or lime zest along with lemon juice.
Asian-Inspired Lobster: Add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the butter mixture.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store cooked lobster in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze raw lobster tails only; cooked lobster is best enjoyed fresh. Raw tails can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat in butter over low heat to prevent toughness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Outdoor grill or grill pan
• Kitchen shears
• Basting brush
• Small mixing bowl

Conclusion

Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Herb Butter is a timeless seafood classic that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare at home. With its rich flavor, elegant presentation, and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. One bite of this tender, buttery lobster and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite.