These lobster tails cooked in the air fryer are incredibly tender and delicious. With a garlic and herb butter sauce on top, this is a quick and easy way to make a fancy dinner that tastes great without having to spend a lot of time cooking.
This lobster tail is so delicious that it should be served with some great sides. Try this grilled asparagus, these biscuits, and this perfectly creamy clam chowder!
Can I Cook Lobster Tails in an Air Fryer? The Fast, Easy and Delicious Way to Make Perfectly Juicy Lobster at Home
Lobster is a luxurious, delicious seafood treat that many of us only get to enjoy at restaurants or on special occasions. However, with the rise of air fryers, it’s now easier than ever to make restaurant-quality lobster tail recipes right at home with minimal effort.
In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about cooking lobster tails in an air fryer, including why it works so well, how to prepare them properly, cooking times, and serving suggestions. After reading, you’ll be ready to make tender, succulent, butter-basted air fryer lobster tails for your family or to impress guests!
The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Lobster Tails
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking by mimicking deep frying results without all the oil The hot circulating air quickly crisps up food from the outside in So how does this apply to delicate lobster meat? Here are some of the benefits
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Super quick cooking time. Lobster can be done in just 5-10 minutes in an air fryer, compared to 15-20 minutes in the oven. The meat comes out tender and juicy, not rubbery.
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Added convenience. Simply load up the air fryer basket and walk away. No need to preheat the oven or monitor a pot.
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Less mess. Air frying contains crumbs and splatters, unlike boiling or broiling which can get messy.
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Intense flavor The hot air concentrates flavors as moisture evaporates from the lobster Brushing with garlic butter adds even more.
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Versatile machine. An air fryer lets you cook side dishes at the same time, like air fryer vegetables.
Lobster Tail Ingredients and Preparation
When shopping for lobster tails, look for fresh raw tails that are firm and translucent or frozen uncooked tails. Avoid pre-cooked ones which will be tough. Thaw frozen tails overnight in the fridge before cooking.
You’ll also need:
- Salted butter – for basting and flavor
- Garlic – fresh minced works best
- Lemon – fresh juice and zest enhances texture
- Herbs like parsley or tarragon (optional)
- Spices like paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper
To prep, use kitchen shears to cut lengthwise through the top shell without cutting all the way through. Crack the tail open and pull meat up over the side of the cut shell. De-vein if needed. Skewer the meat to prevent curling.
Next, make garlic lemon butter by melting butter and mixing with minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, and any preferred herbs or spices.
How to Cook Lobster Tails in an Air Fryer – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps for perfect air fryer lobster every time:
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Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
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Brush lobster meat generously with garlic lemon butter mixture.
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Place tails in air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed, keeping space between each.
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Cook for 5 minutes initially. Larger tails may take up to 10 minutes.
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Remove air fryer basket and brush lobster with butter again.
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Return to air fryer and cook for another 3-5 minutes until opaque.
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Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached 140°F.
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Remove lobster from basket. Serve with extra lemon butter for dipping.
The lobster tail is fully cooked once the meat is opaque and firm. Be careful not to overcook or it will become rubbery. Basting it with butter half-way through ensures each bite is infused with flavorful moisture.
Cooking Time in an Air Fryer
The air fryer cooking time for lobster tails depends on their size. Here are general guidelines:
- 4-6 oz tail – 5 to 6 minutes
- 8-10 oz tail – 8 to 10 minutes
- 12 oz or larger – 11 to 13 minutes
For reference, one pound is about two 6-8 oz lobster tails. Adjust cook times up or down based on quantity. Always check internal temp and look for opacity, not color, to gauge doneness.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips and tricks to take your air fried lobster tails to the next level:
- Do not overcrowd. Give them space to allow air flow.
- Cut shells lengthwise for even cooking.
- Baste with butter multiple times.
- Brush meat with citrus or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season simply with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Add roasted garlic to the lemon butter for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like dill, chives or thyme.
- Serve with grilled lemon halves.
- Pair with steak for surf and turf.
Can You Cook Frozen Lobster Tails in an Air Fryer?
It’s best to thaw frozen raw lobster tails before air frying. Microwaving to thaw can cause uneven cooking. For best results, plan ahead and thaw tails overnight in the refrigerator. Place on a plate to catch drips.
If needed in a pinch, you can thaw frozen tails sealed in a zip top bag under cold running water for 30-60 minutes. Blot dry before cooking. The air fryer can handle frozen tails, but the texture may suffer.
Get Creative with Sauces and Sides
Don’t limit yourself to plain old melted butter with air fried lobster tails. Kick things up a notch with one of these lip-smacking sauces:
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Lemon garlic aioli – Blend mayo, lemon juice, garlic & dill
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Brown butter – Cook until nutty golden brown & frothy
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Chili lime butter – Mix in hot sauce, chili powder & lime
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Hollandaise – Classic creamy, buttery, lemony sauce
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Remoulade – Spicy mayo-based sauce with capers & herbs
Pair your lobster with crunchy vegetables like air fryer asparagus or green beans. Or opt for classic sides like baked potatoes, creamy risotto, or buttered pasta. The possibilities are endless!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Cooked lobster tails will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently either in the air fryer at 300°F for 4-5 minutes or on the stovetop over low in a little butter.
You can also use leftovers in other dishes like lobster rolls, pasta, omelets, or salad. Just avoid reheating more than once.
Get Crafty with the Whole Lobster
While lobster tails are the easiest form to cook in the air fryer, you can make a whole lobster too with a bit more prep work.
Start by twisting and pulling the tail off the body. Use shears to cut the underside of the tail lengthwise and crack the claws and knuckles with a mallet. Air fry the tail as described above.
After removing the tail, split the body and claws to expose the meat. Brush with butter and seasoning. Air fry the claws and body 8-10 minutes until the meat inside turns opaque.
Serve the tail, body, and claws together for a feast! Dip in melted butter and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cook frozen lobster tails in an air fryer?
It’s best to thaw frozen raw lobster tails before cooking in an air fryer. Microwaving to thaw can cause uneven cooking. Thaw frozen tails overnight in the fridge or under cold running water instead.
Is air fryer lobster healthy?
Yes, lobster is very healthy and nutritious. It’s high in protein and low in calories and fat, especially when air fried without added oil. Lobster also provides important vitamins and minerals like B12, zinc, copper, and selenium.
How long does lobster last in the fridge after cooking?
Cooked lobster tails will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving. For longer storage, freeze cooked lobster for 2-3 months.
What are the best sides to serve with air fryer lobster?
Great sides for lobster include boiled or grilled asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, air fryer fries, mashed or baked potatoes, corn on the cob, creamy risotto or pasta, and fresh salad.
Should you brine lobster tails before cooking?
Brining is not necessary but can help add flavor and moisture when cooking lobster, especially if reheating leftovers. Make a simple 15-30 minute brine using salt, sugar, and aromatics like citrus, garlic, or bay leaves. Rinse before cooking.
The Takeaway
Cooking lobster tail in an air fry
Ingredients You Need to Cook Air Fryer Lobster Tails
This post just keeps getting easier and easier. There are only six things you need to make the best lobster tails you’ve ever had. For exact amounts, see the recipe card at the end of the post.
- Lobster Tails: Stick with buying cold water lobsters. When you buy lobster tails, stay away from ones that have been soaked in sodium tripolyphosphate. This will ensure that is doesn’t taste like ammonia.
- Salt and pepper are all you need to make this dish taste great.
- Butter: I used unsalted butter for this recipe.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic cloves, you can use minced garlic instead. 1/2 teaspoon equals about 1 clove of garlic.
- I love this sweet spice called paprika. It gives food a unique flavor that it needs.
- Parsley: This garnish adds a great look and taste!
Tips for Cooking Lobster Tails
- Types of Lobster: Any type of lobster works well. If you prefer spiny lobster that is great too. Just be careful!.
- Cutting the Lobster into Butterfly Shapes: If you cut the meat, it will be fine. In some cases, this will help make sure it cooks more evenly anyway. You should not cut through the bottom shell, though.
- How Hot to Cook Lobster: Try your best not to cook the lobster tails too long. This will help by using a meat thermometer. If you want the lobster to taste its best, the center should reach 145°F.
- Female Lobster: To see lobster meat that is still a little pink after it’s been cooked is fun. The pink meat shows that it is a female lobster.
Air Fryer Lobster Tails Recipe
How to cook lobster tail in air fryer?
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Season the lobster. Brush garlic butter sauce over the lobster meat. Cook. Place lobster tails in the air fryer basket and cook until opaque. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. How Long To Cook Lobster Tail In The Air Fryer?
Can you use lemon zest in air Fry lobster tails?
You can also use lemon zest to flavor and garnish your air fry lobster tails. BUTTER – Butter is a key ingredient in the garlic butter sauce. It provides richness and flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or vegan butter as a substitute.
How do you defrost lobster in an air fryer?
For the best flavor and texture you want your lobster fully defrosted before placing it into your air fryer. Butterfly your lobster tails. Using kitchen shears carefully cut down the middle of the top shell, stopping just at the tail. Use your fingers to loosen the shell away from the meat.
How long do you cook a lobster in an air fryer?
Using butcher sheers (scissors), slice down the top of the shell to expose the flesh. Then, add your stuffing mixture underneath the opening you made on the lobster’s body. Then, cook your lobster in the air fryer for approximately 18 minutes. The required time may vary based on the size of the crustacean.