Cook Lobster Tail in Oven

Cook Lobster Tail in Oven is a surprisingly simple and elegant way to prepare a luxurious meal right in your own kitchen. This guide will show you how to achieve perfectly tender and flavorful lobster tails with minimal effort, making gourmet dining accessible for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings: 2 lobster tails

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2-4 frozen or fresh lobster tails 4-6 ounces each, preferably split or butterflied for easier cooking.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic minced (optional)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Pinch salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)

Equipment

Kitchen Shears
Small Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Oven

Method

If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for 30-60 minutes until fully thawed. Once thawed, use kitchen shears to cut down the top of the hard shell, from the end of the tail to just before the fan. Carefully open the shell, exposing the raw meat. Gently pull the meat up through the opening, resting it on top of the shell. This is called butterflying the lobster tail. Make sure to rinse the lobster tails under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2-4 frozen or fresh lobster tails
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), and paprika (if using). Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This flavorful butter will be your secret weapon for incredible taste.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, Pinch salt, freshly ground black pepper
Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Using a pastry brush, generously baste the exposed lobster meat with about half of the melted butter mixture. Make sure to get an even coating over all the meat.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and firm to the touch. The cooking time will depend on the size of your lobster tails. A good rule of thumb is to cook them for about 1 minute per ounce. For perfectly cooked lobster, avoid overcooking, as it can lead to rubbery meat.
Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the oven. Baste them again with the remaining butter mixture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
Fresh parsley

Notes

For reheating, place lobster tails in an oven-safe dish with water or broth, cover with foil, and reheat at 275°F (135°C) for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving.