Lobster Tail with Herb Butter

Name: Lobster Tail with Herb Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 lobster tails; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

I absolutely love indulging in a beautiful lobster tail, and this recipe for Lobster Tail with Herb Butter is a personal favorite of mine. It's not only elegant enough for special occasions, but it's also surprisingly easy to prepare at home. The combination of tender, succulent lobster and a rich, herby butter sauce creates a dish that is truly unforgettable. I often serve it with garlic bread or a light salad to round out the meal, and my guests always rave about it!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:38:29.868Z

When I first tried making lobster tails at home, I was nervous about not getting the cook right. However, I learned that broiling the lobster on high for a short time ensures that it remains juicy and tender. It’s also the perfect opportunity to infuse flavor with my herb butter, which adds a deliciously rich element to the dish.

Using fresh herbs really makes a difference in the flavor profile. I particularly enjoy a mix of parsley and chives, which brighten up the butter and complement the natural sweetness of the lobster. It's all about balance, and this recipe strikes it perfectly.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent lobster meat complemented by rich herb-infused butter
Impressive dish that makes any dinner feel special
Fast and easy preparation without sacrificing flavor

      

Understanding Lobster Tails

When selecting lobster tails for this recipe, opt for the freshest available. Look for tails that are firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet ocean scent. Generally, 5 to 6-ounce tails are ideal for a satisfying serving size. It's important to note that larger tails may require slightly more broiling time, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked lobster can become tough, losing its delicate texture and flavor, so precision is key.

The quality of the butter you use impacts the final taste significantly. I prefer to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, allowing the natural sweetness of the lobster to shine through. For an extra layer of flavor, you might consider browning the butter slightly before mixing in the herbs. This technique adds a complex nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the lobster.

Perfecting the Broiling Technique

Broiling is a high-heat cooking method that can yield perfectly tender lobster when done correctly. Set your broiler to high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. This positioning is crucial; too far away will result in longer cooking times and potential dryness, while too close could char the meat before it's fully cooked. The lobster should be broiled until the meat transforms from translucent to opaque, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.

To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the broiling process. Pay attention to the visual cues; ideally, the tops should develop golden edges and the herb butter should start to bubble, suggesting a lovely infused flavor profile. If you're concerned about browning too quickly, keep a close watch and lightly cover the lobster with foil if necessary.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving your Lobster Tail with Herb Butter perfectly elevates the dish. Fresh lemon wedges not only add brightness but also enhance the overall flavor experience. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with garlic bread, as it complements the butter sauce nicely while providing a satisfying garlic-infused crunch. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can also balance the rich flavors of the lobster, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

If you want to experiment with flavors, feel free to swap the herbs in the butter for other fresh options. Basil, tarragon, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for spice can alter the flavor profile dramatically. Additionally, you can consider adding a splash of white wine or fresh lemon juice to the butter mix before broiling for an enhanced, zesty finish. These variations ensure that each time you make this recipe, it can have its unique touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a fantastic Lobster Tail with Herb Butter:

Ingredients

2 lobster tails
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Ensure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lobster Tail with Herb Butter:

Prepare the Lobster Tails

Start by preheating your broiler. Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the top of each lobster tail shell down the center and gently pry apart the shell to expose the meat. Season the lobster meat with salt and pepper.

Make the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, chives, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

Broil the Lobster Tails

Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet, meat side up. Generously spoon the herb butter over the lobster meat, ensuring it is covered. Broil in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and the shell is slightly charred.

Serve

Remove the lobster tails from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Lobster Tail with Herb Butter!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the herb butter mixture. This will give your lobster a slight heat that balances well with the richness of the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those looking to prep ahead of time, the herb butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just mix the ingredients as detailed, then transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap, rolling it into a log shape. You can freeze it for up to three months for convenience. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use, and it will retain its fresh flavors beautifully.

While the lobster tails are best cooked fresh, if you find yourself with leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to two days. Reheating is best done gently; a quick steam or a light broil can rejuvenate the meat without compromising its texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is overcooked lobster, which can unfortunately lead to rubbery meat. The best way to avoid this is to use a digital meat thermometer; lobster is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. If you notice the lobster is undercooked during broiling, feel free to return it to the oven for a minute or two more, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t cook too far.

Another area where issues may arise is ensuring the butter doesn't burn. If your oven runs hot, keep an eye on the lobster and lower the broiling temperature if necessary. If the butter begins to brown too much, pull the lobster out, cover it with foil to prevent further charring, and continue cooking until fully done.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I know when the lobster tails are done?

Lobster tails are done when the meat is opaque and the shell turns bright red. An internal thermometer should read 140°F (60°C).

→ Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for optimal texture and flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with lobster tails?

Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments.

→ Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.