Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter

Name: Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 lobster tails; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, for serving

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I absolutely love grilling lobster, especially when it's slathered in a rich garlic butter sauce. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the sweetness of the lobster flesh creates a culinary experience that's hard to beat. Grilling also keeps the meat tender and succulent, and the garlic butter takes it to another level of indulgence. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat, and I can't wait to share this straightforward recipe with you that ensures a delicious result every time.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:55:29.518Z

During one of my beach vacations, I stumbled upon a local restaurant famous for their grilled lobster. The aroma of garlic wafting through the air as they prepared it on the grill was irresistible. I knew I had to recreate that flavor at home. The key is to ensure the lobster tails are split evenly so they grill perfectly without drying out, and using high-quality butter truly elevates the dish.

As I experimented with different seasonings, I found that simply enhancing the natural sweetness of the lobster with garlic and a sprinkle of herbs made all the difference. The result was a dish that transported me back to that sunny beach every time I enjoy it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy lobster meat that grills to perfection
Irresistibly rich garlic butter sauce
Perfectly cooked in just a few minutes

      

The Art of Preparing Lobster Tails

Cutting the lobster tails may seem intimidating, but it’s a crucial step in achieving that perfectly grilled result. Use a sharp pair of kitchen scissors to cut down the top of each tail, ensuring you only cut through the shell and not the meat. This allows the meat to expand while cooking, maximizing its exposure to the grill's heat. If you're unsure, go slow – it’s better to take your time to prevent any accidental cuts into the meat itself.

After you’ve cut the shells, don’t rush the pulling process. Gently pry the shell apart and slightly pull out the meat so it rests on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the meat to absorb the smoky flavors from the grill. If you're looking for an extra touch, you can season the lobster meat lightly with salt and pepper before applying the garlic butter, creating a flavor base.

Elevating Flavor with Garlic Butter

The garlic butter is what truly elevates this dish. Using fresh, minced garlic rather than pre-minced options is key to achieving that vibrant garlic flavor. When mixed with the melted unsalted butter, the garlic infuses its flavor, creating a rich sauce that complements the sweetness of the lobster. I recommend letting the butter cool slightly after melting before mixing in the garlic. This prevents the garlic from cooking too quickly and becoming bitter.

Additionally, feel free to customize your garlic butter. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, or a dash of lemon juice can enhance the brightness of the dish. Remember to taste your mixture before grilling, and adjust the seasoning accordingly. This is a chance to personalize the rich base that will coat the lobster, giving it your unique signature.

Grilling Tips for Tender Lobster

Grilling lobster tails requires attention to timing and temperature to ensure the meat remains tender. Preheat your grill to medium-high, aiming for a temperature of about 400°F to 450°F. A hotter grill can lead to a quick char, which may overcook the delicate lobster meat. Aim for a cooking time of 6-8 minutes, watching closely for that opaque finish that indicates doneness. The meat should slightly swell and pull away from the shell.

While grilling, ensure to baste the lobster with the garlic butter mixture every couple of minutes. This not only keeps the meat moist but also enhances the caramelization process, leading to a beautiful golden color on the edges. If you notice any flare-ups from the drippings, move the tails to indirect heat until the flames subside. This technique ensures the lobster remains juicy and flavorful, avoiding any burnt bits.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this mouth-watering grilled lobster dish:

Ingredients

2 lobster tails
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, for serving

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to grill your lobster to perfection:

Prepare the Lobster

Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top of each lobster tail, stopping before the end. Gently pry open the shell and pull the meat slightly out, resting it on top of the shell.

Make Garlic Butter

In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Grill the Lobster

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture. Place the lobster tails on the grill, shell side down, and cook for 6-8 minutes, basting occasionally with more garlic butter.

Serve

Once the lobster is cooked and the meat is opaque, remove from the grill. Serve with lemon wedges and additional garlic butter on the side.

Enjoy your delicious grilled lobster warm!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Also, make sure not to overcook the lobster, as it can become tough.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days to maintain their fresh taste and texture. I recommend storing the garlic butter separately to prevent the lobster from becoming overly saturated. When you're ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the lobster in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 10-15 minutes.

Avoid microwaving the lobster, as it can quickly turn rubbery. If you prefer a faster method, consider tossing the leftover tails in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water, and covering to steam them back to life. This method allows for a more even heating without compromising the texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive platter, serve your grilled lobster tails alongside herb-infused rice or a fresh green salad. The acidity from a lemon-infused vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the lobster and garlic butter. You can also add grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a colorful presentation that highlights seasonal freshness.

Don’t forget to set out lemon wedges for squeezing over the grilled meat before serving. A light squeeze adds brightness and enhances the dish's overall flavor profile. If you're feeling indulgent, consider preparing a side of garlic bread to mop up any leftover garlic butter – it's a delightful way to round out the meal.

Variations and Substitutions

While lobster is the star of this recipe, you can also use shrimp or scallops if you're looking to mix things up. The cooking times may vary slightly—shrimp will cook more quickly while scallops might require a few extra minutes. Adjust the garlic butter by adding herbs such as dill or tarragon to complement the seafood of your choice.

For a healthier spin, you can grill the lobster without butter, instead opting for a marinade of olive oil, citrus juice, and herbs. This method will yield a lighter dish while still providing great flavor. Feel free to get creative with garnishes as well, such as fresh microgreens or edible flowers for a striking visual presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before grilling for even cooking.

→ What should I serve with grilled lobster?

Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread complement grilled lobster beautifully.

→ How can I tell when the lobster is fully cooked?

The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked.

→ Is it necessary to add herbs to the garlic butter?

While it's not necessary, fresh herbs like parsley enhance the flavor and provide a nice color contrast.