Cheesy Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails

Servings

4 lobster tails

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

12–15 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

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Ingredients

Lobster

• 4 lobster tails (5–6 oz / 140–170 g each), thawed if frozen

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Cheese Topping

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons cheddar or Gruyère for extra richness

Garnish (optional)

• Extra parsley

• Lemon wedges

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Using kitchen scissors, cut through the top shell lengthwise, stopping at the tail fin.

3. Gently pull the lobster meat up and rest it on top of the shell (do not remove it completely).

4. Pat the meat dry with paper towels.

5. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

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2. Make the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine:

   • Melted butter

   • Minced garlic

   • Lemon juice

   • Lemon zest

   • Chopped parsley

2. Mix well until fully combined.

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3. Season and Add Cheese

1. Brush the garlic butter generously over the lobster meat, letting some drip into the shell.

2. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over each tail.

3. Finish with Parmesan (and optional extra cheese).

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4. Bake

1. Place lobster tails on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment.

2. Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, until:

   • Lobster meat is opaque and white

   • Internal temperature reaches 140°F / 60°C

   • Cheese is fully melted and lightly golden

Tip: If the cheese needs more color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely).

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5. Serve

• Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

• Serve immediately while hot and melty.

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Pro Tips

• Do not overcook: Lobster becomes rubbery quickly.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the butter.

• Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or grilled vegetables.

• If lobster tails are large, add 2–3 extra minutes of baking time.

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Flavor Profile

• Rich, buttery

• Cheesy and savory

• Light citrus finish from lemon

• Restaurant-style, oven-baked perfection