You can make perfectly grilled lobster tails in less than 10 minutes! They taste great and save you a lot of money if you do it yourself. This is the BEST recipe for grilled lobster tails you will ever make!
Our tradition for New Year’s Eve is to cook some kind of seafood, drink a lot of wine, and play games with our family while we ring in the new year.
Lobster used to be kind of intimidating for me to cook. I was so afraid of under or over cooking it. I bought these when they were on sale a few years ago to use for practice, and I think I’ve gotten better at it over the years!
They are actually pretty simple to make, and can be an affordable gourmet meal when made at home. They are perfect for date nights at home, or special holiday get togethers.
The holiday season is a great time to buy Lobster Tails because they are usually on sale. Right now they are priced at $5 for a 6oz Lobster Tail at my local grocery store. (This post was originally published in 2016 and has since been updated in 2022).
Lobster tails are a delicacy that many home cooks are intimidated to make. However, broiling lobster tails is actually quite simple and one of the best cooking methods to yield tender juicy and flavorful results. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know to master broiled lobster tails at home.
What You Need to Know Before Broiling Lobster Tails
Here are some key tips to ensure success when broiling lobster tails:
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Choose cold water lobster – Cold water lobster has a firmer texture and sweeter flavor than warm water lobster Maine lobster is always a great choice
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Buy the right size – Lobster tails are sold in a variety of sizes, from 3-12 oz or more. For easy cooking and portioning, 6 oz tails are ideal.
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Thaw safely – If using frozen lobster tails, thaw overnight in the fridge before broiling.
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Prep the tails properly – Cut through the top of the shell with kitchen shears, then pull the meat out while leaving it attached at the base.
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Figure the cook time – Broil for 5-7 minutes for 6 oz tails. The general rule is 1 minute per ounce.
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Watch closely – Set your oven rack 4-5 inches from the broiler and keep a close eye to prevent overcooking.
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Check doneness – Lobster is done when the meat is opaque and reaches 140°F internally
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Avoid overcooking – This makes the lobster chewy. It’s better to slightly undercook than overcook.
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Have butter ready – Melted butter with fresh lemon juice and garlic makes the perfect dipping sauce.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Broiling Lobster Tails
Follow these simple steps for foolproof broiled lobster tails:
1. Prep the Lobster Tails
Rinse thawed lobster tails under cold water and pat dry. Using kitchen shears, cut lengthwise through the top part of the shell. Cut all the way from the wide end to the base. Then, gently pull the shell upwards to loosen the meat. Twist the tail to crack the bottom shell. Finally, lightly pull to remove the meat, keeping it attached at the base.
2. Brush with Butter
In a small bowl, melt 2 tbsp butter. Mix in 1 tbsp minced garlic and the juice of 1 lemon. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic lemon butter.
3. Broil the Lobster Tails
Place lobster tails shell-side down on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil 6 oz tails 4-5 inches from heat for 5-7 minutes until opaque and firm. Adjust time for larger or smaller tails.
4. Check Doneness
Lobster is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. The meat will be opaque and firm when done. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes more or until desired doneness is reached.
5. Serve Immediately
Remove the lobster tails from the oven as soon as they are fully cooked. Serve them hot with melted butter for dipping. Enjoy!
FAQs About Broiling Lobster Tails
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about preparing broiled lobster tails:
How do you know when lobster tails are done?
Check the internal temperature and look for opaque, firm meat. Lobster is perfectly cooked at 140°F. Also watch the time carefully based on the size of the tails.
Can you overcook lobster tails?
Yes, lobster can become rubbery and tough if overcooked. It’s always better to slightly undercook than overcook.
Why are my lobster tails mushy?
If properly cooked, mushiness means the lobster tails were likely of poor quality. Only buy fresh, high-quality lobster for the best texture.
How long can you cook frozen lobster tails?
Thaw frozen lobster tails completely first, then cook following the same timing – 1 minute per ounce under the broiler.
Can you reheat leftover lobster tails?
It’s not recommended. Reheating will diminish the texture. For the best taste and texture, only cook lobster tails that will be eaten immediately.
Should you boil or broil lobster tails?
Broiling is highly recommended as the heat from above helps develop flavor. Boiling makes the meat tougher and less flavorful.
Tips for the Best Broiled Lobster Tails
Here are some extra tips and suggestions for perfect broiled lobster tails:
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For more flavor, consider soaking tails in milk or lemon juice before cooking.
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Add herbs like parsley or tarragon to the butter baste.
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Go beyond just butter – try dipping tails in melted garlic aioli or hollandaise sauce.
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Serve with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the lobster before eating.
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Pair lobster with classic side dishes like baked potatoes, corn on the cob, or asparagus.
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Splurge on big lobster tails for special occasions by broiling 8-12 oz tails.
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For ultimate surf and turf, serve lobster with steak or lamb chops.
Common Questions About Purchasing Lobster Tails
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying lobster tails for broiling:
Where can you buy raw lobster tails?
Check the seafood section at well-stocked grocery stores or fish markets. Lobster tails are often in the freezer case.
How much do lobster tails cost?
Prices range widely based on size, but average $8-12 per tail for good quality. Sales drop the prices lower at certain times.
Should you buy frozen or fresh lobster tails?
Either works well, just give frozen tails time to thaw overnight before cooking.
Are rock lobster tails good?
Yes, rock lobster or spiny lobster tails found in warm waters have a similar sweet taste and texture to traditional lobster.
Can you buy cooked lobster tails?
Pre-cooked lobster tails are available but the texture won’t be as good. For the best results, purchase raw tails.
Troubleshooting Common Lobster Tail Issues
Here’s how to troubleshoot some common problems when broiling lobster tails:
Lobster meat is tough and chewy
- You likely overcooked the lobster. It continues to cook a bit after removing from oven. Take tails out just shy of doneness next time.
Lobster meat is mushy
- Undercooking is probably not the issue if you followed cook time precisely. The lobster was likely of poor quality. Purchase the best quality available.
Lobster meat sticks to the shell
- Be very gentle when removing raw lobster meat to keep it intact. Try flipping the meat over partway through broiling to cook the underside.
Lobster tails have no flavor
- Make sure to brush with garlic butter before and after cooking for plenty of flavor. Season more aggressively with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and herbs.
Shells crack and break apart
- With a very sharp knife or shears, cut the shell cleanly in one smooth motion. Work slowly and be gentle when removing meat.
The Takeaway on Broiled Lobster Tails
Broiling lobster tails makes for an impressive yet easy gourmet meal. The high heat from the oven broiler locks in moisture while adding great char flavor. Follow the preparation steps closely, watch cook times carefully based on weight, and stick to trusted quality sources when purchasing raw lobster. Master these simple techniques for serving restaurant-worthy lobster tails at home any night of the week.
How to Cook Lobster Tail in the Oven
In a small bowl mix the melted butter and garlic.
If you want to broil the lobster tails, put them on a baking sheet lined with foil and a wire rack, like the picture below shows.
Brush the meat of the Lobster with the melted butter and garlic mixture.
Can you Freeze Lobster Tails?
Freezing cooked lobster is not recommended because the texture will change. You can freeze lobster tails by using the method below.
Put 2 quarts of water and 1/2 cup of non-iodized salt in a pot. Heat the water until it boils. Add lobster tails for 60 seconds, then place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Once they are completely cooled, pat dry and freeze them in freezer bags. They can be frozen 9-12 months.
