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Ina Garten Lobster Tail Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Lobster Tails

  • 2 lobster tails (68 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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