Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with Herb Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with Herb Sauce is a luxurious, restaurant-worthy dish I love making at home when I want to serve something impressive yet easy. Succulent lobster meat is basted with rich garlic butter, finished in a velvety cream sauce, and brightened with fresh herbs—it’s indulgent, elegant, and absolutely unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it elevates lobster tails with rich, garlicky butter and a silky cream sauce without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the lobster. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare but looks and tastes like something from a fine dining menu. Whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or just treating myself, this dish always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lobster tails (4–6 oz each, thawed if frozen)

• Butter (unsalted)

• Garlic (minced)

• Shallot (minced, optional)

• Heavy cream

• White wine or chicken broth

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

• Fresh thyme or tarragon (chopped)

• Lemon juice

• Salt and pepper

• Paprika (optional, for color)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 425°F and butterfly the lobster tails by cutting down the top shell and gently lifting the meat over the shell.

2. I season the lobster meat with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for color.

3. In a small skillet, I melt butter and sauté garlic and shallots (if using) until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. I spoon or brush the garlic butter over the lobster meat, reserving a bit for the sauce.

5. I place the lobster tails on a baking dish and roast them for 10–12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and lightly golden.

6. While they bake, I make the herb cream sauce: in the same pan, I deglaze with white wine or broth, simmer for a minute, then add heavy cream and the remaining butter.

7. I let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened, then stir in lemon juice and chopped herbs.

8. I remove the lobster tails from the oven, plate them, and spoon the warm herb cream sauce over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a 30-minute gourmet meal.

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or stir in grated Parmesan for an extra-rich sauce. If I want a lighter version, I swap the cream for half-and-half or use a lemon-garlic butter sauce without cream.

Storage/Reheating

Lobster is best served fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, I just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture.

What’s the best way to butterfly lobster tails?

I cut down the top shell with kitchen shears and gently lift the meat through the slit, resting it on top for even cooking.

Can I grill instead of bake?

Absolutely. I grill the butterflied tails over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, basting with garlic butter as they cook.

What should I serve with this dish?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce, along with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Can I make the herb sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently when ready to serve. I stir in fresh herbs last to keep the flavor bright.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with Herb Sauce is one of my favorite indulgent meals—rich, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, holiday celebration, or anytime I want to enjoy the luxurious taste of lobster at home. Once I tried this version, it became my go-to way to enjoy lobster tails.

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