Introduction

This Ina Garten lobster tail recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for special occasions or a delightful seafood dinner. Succulent lobster meat is brushed with a flavorful garlic butter and baked to tender perfection. It’s quick, impressive, and beautifully delicious.

Ina Garten Lobster Tail Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Use kitchen scissors to cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently pull the lobster meat slightly out of the shell to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until well blended.
Step 4: Place the lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet. Brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, reserving some for after baking.
Step 5: Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the meat turns opaque and feels slightly firm. Be careful not to overcook.
Step 6: Remove the lobster tails from the oven and brush again with the reserved garlic butter to add extra flavor and shine.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over. Enjoy your elegant lobster tails!

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle kick.
Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best bright, fresh taste.
Serve lobster tails with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to keep the meal balanced and fresh.
If fresh parsley isn’t available, a sprinkle of fresh chives or basil can also add a lovely color and aroma.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be repurposed in salads or pasta dishes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails. Be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and even cooking.

How do I know when the lobster tails are fully cooked?

The lobster meat should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking turns the meat rubbery, so watch the cooking time closely and remove from the oven as soon as it’s done.

Ina Garten Lobster Tail Recipe

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4.9 from 92 reviews

Ina Garten’s Lobster Tail recipe is a simple yet elegant dish featuring succulent lobster tails baked to perfection with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of lobster enhanced by a zesty lemon and paprika-infused butter, perfect for an impressive and easy seafood dinner.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Lobster Tails

2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)

Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently pull the meat slightly out of the shell to allow for even cooking and better absorption of flavors.
Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
Brush Lobster with Butter: Place the prepared lobster tails on the lined baking sheet. Generously brush each tail with the garlic butter mixture, reserving some butter for basting later.
Bake the Lobster Tails: Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The meat should become opaque and slightly firm—avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
Add More Butter: Once baked, remove the lobster tails from the oven and brush them again with the reserved garlic butter to enhance flavor and add a glossy finish.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the lobster with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately alongside lemon wedges for squeezing over the meat. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and presentation.

Notes

Do not overcook the lobster tails as it can make the meat tough and rubbery.
Cutting the shell lengthwise and pulling the meat out helps the lobster cook evenly and makes it easier to eat.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact in the garlic butter sauce.
Reserve some garlic butter for brushing after baking to keep the lobster moist and flavorful.
Serving immediately ensures the best taste and presentation.

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, Ina Garten, seafood recipe, baked lobster, easy lobster recipe