A Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Succulent Lobster Claws in the Oven

Lobster claws are considered a delicacy for good reason – when properly prepared the tender meat inside the claws becomes irresistibly sweet and flavorful. If you want to experience sublime restaurant-quality lobster claws without the high price tag, cooking them yourself at home is a great option. Read on for a complete guide to preparing succulent oven-baked lobster claws right in your own kitchen!

Benefits of Cooking Lobster Claws in the Oven

Cooking lobster claws in the oven has several advantages compared to other preparation methods

• The dry ambient heat of the oven gently cooks the lobster meat evenly throughout. This prevents overcooking on the outside while keeping the interior moist and tender.

• Oven baking intensifies and concentrates the natural sweetness of the lobster meat.

• Minimal preparation is required compared to grilling or boiling. Simply season and pop in the oven.

• Oven cooking allows you to prepare multiple lobster claws at once, perfect for entertaining!

• It frees up stove space for cooking side dishes while the lobster bakes unattended in the oven.

For these reasons, the oven creates the ideal environment for cooking lobster claws to tender, succulent perfection.

Step 1 – Purchase Fresh Lobster Claws

High quality ingredients are key for any dish, and lobster claws are no exception. When buying lobster claws:

• Look for claws that are from wild-caught lobsters rather than farmed. They will have better flavor.

• Choose claws that are intact, similar in size, and have a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots or discoloration.

• Opt for claws that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are nice and meaty inside.

• Make sure claws are raw and uncooked, not pre-steamed.

Purchased fresh, high-end frozen claws work well too if local fresh claws are not available.

Step 2 – Thaw Lobster Claws if Using Frozen

If using frozen lobster claws:

• Place claws in a single layer on a tray and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Microwaving is not recommended, as it will start cooking the meat unevenly.

• Do not thaw at room temperature, as this promotes bacterial growth.

Once thawed, they are ready to prep and cook.

Step 3 – Prepare the Lobster Claws

Preparing the claws for oven baking is simple:

• First, use kitchen shears or scissors to cut through the shell on the underside, to allow heat to penetrate and cook the meat fully.

• Next, brush the lobster claws all over with a light coating of olive oil or melted butter. This prevents them from drying out in the oven.

• Season the claws liberally with salt and pepper. Feel free to also use lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika or other seasonings.

• For extra flavor and moisture, add a pinch of fresh or dried herbs like oregano, basil, or tarragon.

• No need to pre-boil the claws, as oven cooking will be sufficient.

The claws are now ready to pop in the oven!

Step 4 – Preheat Oven to 375°F

• Preheat your oven to 375°F. This mid-range temperature prevents overcooking while still baking the lobster fully.

• Be sure to give your oven adequate preheating time, at least 15-20 minutes.

• The hot oven will give the claws a quick sear to lock in juices.

Step 5 – Bake Lobster Claws for 15-20 Minutes

Once claws are prepped and oven preheated, bake as follows:

• Place lobster claws on a baking sheet or oven-safe pan in a single layer.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the meat inside turns opaque and white.

• Resist the urge to open the oven, which can drop the temperature.

• Rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.

• The total baking time will depend on the size and quantity of claws.

• When properly baked, the meat will feel firm yet tender when gently pressed.

Step 6 – Check for Doneness

There are a few ways to check if the lobster claws are fully baked:

• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat. It should reach 140-145°F when done.

• The shell will turn bright red, and meat will appear opaque rather than translucent.

• Try gently twisting a claw. It should feel loosened at the joint when ready.

• Press on the meat with tongs or your finger. It should feel firm yet springy.

If needed based on these tests, return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until baked to perfection.

Step 7 – Enjoy Your Baked Lobster Goodness!

The lobster claws are ready to enjoy! Here are a few serving ideas:

• Drizzle with lemon butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• Serve with melted drawn butter for dipping.

• Pair with rice or roasted potatoes and asparagus.

• Incorporate into pasta, risotto, or seafood stew recipes.

• Garnish a green salad with lobster claws for an elegant appetizer.

However you choose to serve them, oven-baked lobster claws make for an impressive, restaurant-quality meal. Enjoy!

Common Questions about Oven Lobster Claws

Cooking lobster claws in the oven may be new territory for some. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

How many lobster claws will serve 2-4 people?

For 2 people allow 4-6 claws. For 4 people, aim for 8-12 claws. Lobster is rich, so a little goes a long way!

Can I use raw, cooked, or frozen claws?

Raw or frozen uncooked claws work best. Avoid pre-cooked claws, as they will dry out in oven reheating.

Should I crack the shells before baking?

Yes, use shears or scissors to crack the underside of shells before baking. This allows heat to fully penetrate and cook the interior meat.

Is it necessary to boil before baking in the oven?

No, boiling before baking is an unnecessary extra step. Baking alone sufficiently cooks the lobster claws.

How can I tell when they’re fully cooked?

Check for an internal temperature of 140-145°F. The shells will turn bright red, and meat will be opaque and firm but still moist and tender.

Can I reheat leftover baked claws?

Yes, leftover baked claws can be reheated. Cover in foil and reheat at 325°F for 8-10 minutes until hot throughout.

Enjoy Restaurant-Worthy Lobster at Home

With this complete guide, you can now rival fine dining seafood restaurants with your own oven-baked lobster claws! Cooking them at home lets you control ingredients, portions, and cost while still achieving gourmet results.

Be sure to use fresh, high-quality claws, prep them correctly, and bake at the right oven temperature for tender, succulent meat. Master this technique, and lobster claws will go from special occasion dish to weekly meal. Impress your guests – or just yourself – with your own oven-baked lobster feast.