Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter

Name: Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 lobster tails; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

I love making Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter for special occasions or when I want to treat myself to something luxurious. The rich, buttery sauce complements the sweetness of the lobster perfectly, creating a mouthwatering combination that is hard to resist. Grilling adds a subtle smokiness and char that elevates the entire dish. It's straightforward to prepare and impresses everyone at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to for your seafood cravings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:06:30.278Z

When I first attempted making grilled lobster at home, I was nervous about getting it just right. After experimenting a bit, I discovered that the key to perfect lobster is not overcooking it and ensuring the garlic butter is infused with just the right amount of herbs. Grilling on high heat for a short time gives the lobster a beautiful char while keeping it moist and tender.

My favorite tip is to baste the lobster tails with the garlic butter mixture while grilling. This not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the meat juicy. The smell that wafts through the air as it cooks is simply unbeatable, making any dinner feel festive!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lobster infused with fragrant garlic and herbs
Quick to prepare yet impressively elegant
Ideal for summer gatherings or cozy date nights

The Importance of Fresh Lobster

When selecting lobster tails for this recipe, freshness is crucial for achieving that sweet, rich flavor. Look for tails that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that have strong, fishy odors or a slimy texture, as these indicate they are past their prime. If possible, choose tails with intact shells for better presentation and flavor retention during grilling.

If you're unable to find fresh lobster tails, frozen ones can be a suitable alternative. Just ensure they're thawed completely in the refrigerator before preparation, which can take several hours or overnight. This slow thawing process helps to preserve their texture and taste, minimizing the risk of rubbery lobster when grilled.

Perfecting Your Garlic Butter

The garlic butter not only enhances the lobster's flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen when grilled. Keep the heat low while melting the butter to avoid browning it, which can lead to a bitter taste. Once the garlic is added, cook it just until fragrant—about a minute—before incorporating the herbs and seasoning. This short cooking time ensures that the garlic retains its pungent flavor without becoming acrid.

Feel free to experiment with the garlic butter by adding other herbs like thyme or dill for a twist. A touch of red pepper flakes can also introduce an exciting heat element to the dish. Remember, though, that too many additional flavors can overwhelm the delicate taste of the lobster, so keep the ratios balanced.

Ingredients

Prepare your ingredients for grilling and get ready to indulge in some tasty lobster!

Ingredients

2 lobster tails
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can assemble and grill your lobsters to perfection.

Instructions

Let's get started on grilling these delicious lobster tails!

Prepare the Lobster

Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully split the lobster tails in half lengthwise, removing any loose shell pieces. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.

Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat.

Grill the Lobster

Place the lobster tails cut side up on the grill. Brush generously with garlic butter. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, basting every couple of minutes with more butter until the lobster is opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the lobster from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and the remaining garlic butter on the side.

Enjoy your meal and the delightful flavors of grilled lobster!

Pro Tips

Make sure to check the lobster for doneness. The meat should be opaque and white, and the shells should be bright red.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled lobster is spectacular on its own, but it can also shine as part of a larger feast. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, which can be cooked on the grill for a nice char and complement the richness of the lobster. Pairing it with a light salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette can also balance the dish's richness perfectly.

If you're feeling indulgent, consider serving your lobster with a side of risotto or garlic mashed potatoes. Both options offer a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender lobster and garlic butter. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dining experience with its refreshing acidity.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover grilled lobster, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It can be stored for up to two days. When reheating, for the best results, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the lobster rubbery. Adding a bit of garlic butter while reheating can help keep it moist.

For those who prefer to prep ahead, you can make the garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer. Just reheat it gently before brushing it onto the lobster as you grill. This preparation not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before grilling.

→ How do I know when the lobster is done?

The meat should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).

→ Is there a way to enhance the garlic flavor?

You can add extra minced garlic or roasted garlic to the butter for a more intense flavor.

→ Can I use a different cooking method?

Definitely! You can also bake or broil the lobster if you don't have a grill.