There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of garlic butter sizzling away on the stove while fresh lobster tails slowly roast in the oven. This dish captures the essence of summer with its decadent flavor, light texture, and touch of coastal elegance.

I first fell in love with garlic butter lobster tails during a beach vacation in Maine. One bite and I was hooked — now it’s my go-to seafood dinner whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner for two, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the buttery, garlicky magic.

Why You’ll Love This Summer Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Get ready to indulge in a seafood dish that tastes like a summer getaway. These garlic butter lobster tails are equal parts impressive and effortless.

Perfect for special occasions and weeknights alike. While lobster may sound fancy, this recipe is deceptively easy to make and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to elevate a weeknight meal or serve something memorable for date night.

Flavor-packed and utterly satisfying. The combination of sweet lobster meat with warm garlic butter and a splash of lemon is pure perfection. Every bite melts in your mouth.

Summer-friendly and light. Unlike heavier dishes, this one feels fresh and vibrant — ideal for warm-weather dining. Serve it with grilled vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Budget-conscious elegance. Buying lobster tails instead of whole lobsters keeps things affordable without compromising on flavor or wow-factor.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy prep, these garlic butter lobster tails might just become your new summer staple.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity — each ingredient shines on its own, yet works beautifully with the others to create a harmonious and decadent meal.

Lobster tails are, of course, the star. You can typically find frozen lobster tails at most grocery stores or seafood markets. Look for ones that are about 4 to 6 ounces each, which cook evenly and offer the perfect serving size per person.

Unsalted butter forms the base of the luscious sauce. It’s melted and infused with garlic to create a rich, golden drizzle that bathes the lobster meat during cooking. Unsalted gives you more control over seasoning.

Fresh garlic brings bold, savory depth to the butter. Mince it finely or grate it to ensure even distribution. It should sizzle gently in the butter without browning — just enough to release its aroma.

Lemon juice brightens the richness of the butter and seafood. A generous squeeze right before serving ties the whole dish together with a zing of acidity.

You’ll also need a sharp kitchen shears to butterfly the lobster tails, and a small oven-safe dish or baking sheet for roasting. A basting brush is helpful for coating the meat evenly with garlic butter.

How To Make This Summer Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Cooking lobster tails might seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple once you know the steps. Here’s how to get perfectly tender, buttery results every time.

Start by thawing your lobster tails if they’re frozen. Place them in the fridge overnight or soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly to help the butter cling to the meat.

Using sharp kitchen shears, cut through the top shell lengthwise down the center, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the shell apart and lift the meat through the slit, resting it on top of the shell. This method, known as "butterflying," makes for an elegant presentation and even cooking.

In a small saucepan, melt your butter over low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in a bit of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the lobster tails in a baking dish or on a foil-lined sheet. Brush the garlic butter generously over the meat, letting some drip into the shells. Reserve a small amount for serving.

Roast the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes, depending on size, until the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch. You’ll see the shells turn a vibrant red and the meat puff up slightly.

Drizzle with the reserved garlic butter, squeeze on a little more lemon, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

Storage Options

Leftover lobster tails can be stored, though they’re best enjoyed fresh. If you do have extras, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

To freeze, remove the meat from the shells and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Use within 1 month for best flavor.

Reheat gently by steaming or placing in a covered dish with a bit of butter in the oven at 300°F until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the meat rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is delightfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

If you’re craving a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the butter sauce. It gives the dish a subtle heat and smoky flavor.

For a heartier meal, serve the lobster tails over buttery pasta, garlic mashed potatoes, or creamy risotto. They pair wonderfully with starches that soak up the garlic butter.

Prefer grilling to roasting? Lobster tails do beautifully on the grill. Just brush with garlic butter and grill over medium heat, shell side down, for 5-6 minutes with the lid closed.

If you’re dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or plant-based butter. It changes the flavor slightly but still delivers that rich, garlicky essence.

Experiment with herbs like thyme, basil, or tarragon in the garlic butter for a different flavor profile. The recipe is a canvas for your summer seafood creativity.

No matter how you make it, these garlic butter lobster tails are sure to become a seasonal favorite you’ll crave year after year.