Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Few dishes scream luxury like a perfectly cooked lobster tail — especially when it’s smothered in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or treating yourself to an elevated seafood meal at home, this recipe will make you feel like a 5-star chef in your own kitchen.

These Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a savory showstopper. The sweet, tender lobster meat is broiled to perfection, then bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that clings to every bite. A hint of lemon and chives brighten the richness, giving you the perfect balance of flavor and decadence.

---

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

• Elegant but simple – You don’t need to be a professional chef to get this dish right. The ingredients are straightforward, and the technique is beginner-friendly.
• Incredibly flavorful – The garlic butter cream sauce takes this lobster to a whole new level.
• Perfect for special occasions – Whether it’s date night, a celebration, or just a weekend treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
• Restaurant quality at home – Save your money and enjoy a luxury dinner right in your own kitchen.

---

What Kind of Lobster Tails Should I Use?

Fresh lobster tails are ideal, but frozen ones work just as well if they’re properly thawed. Look for cold water lobster tails (often from Maine or Canada) for the sweetest, most tender meat. These tails are generally more flavorful than their warm water counterparts.

Choose tails that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Medium to large tails (about 5-8 oz each) are perfect for this recipe and give a satisfying portion for each serving.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Each ingredient in this recipe brings a necessary layer of flavor and texture. Here’s what you need and why it’s important:

• Lobster Tails: The star of the dish. Use fresh or thawed frozen cold water lobster tails for the best flavor and texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Acts as the rich base of both the cooking and sauce process, allowing full control of salt levels.
• Garlic (minced): Adds depth and a savory aroma to the butter sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture that clings beautifully to the lobster.
• Lemon Juice: Cuts through the richness and brightens up the sauce.
• Chopped Fresh Chives: Brings a mild onion flavor and fresh color to the final presentation.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note and enhances the color of the lobster.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

---

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Use kitchen shears to cut down the top of each lobster shell, stopping at the tail. Gently pull the meat upward, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell. This makes for an impressive presentation and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Lobster

Sprinkle the lobster meat with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of paprika. This boosts flavor and adds a rich, golden hue after broiling.

Step 3: Broil the Lobster

Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for about 8–10 minutes, depending on size, until the meat is opaque and lightly browned on top.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

While the lobster cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Lemon and Chives

Stir in lemon juice and half of the chopped chives. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce over the broiled lobster tails and sprinkle the remaining chives on top. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy while hot.

---

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

These lobster tails are best served immediately after cooking, when the meat is still juicy and the sauce is warm and velvety. This recipe makes a decadent main dish that feeds 2 people generously. If you’re serving a crowd, simply scale up the ingredients and broil in batches.

To store leftovers, place the lobster and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or butter if needed to loosen the sauce.

Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the lobster and make it rubbery.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that luscious garlic sauce.

Steamed Asparagus

A light and fresh contrast to the richness of the lobster.

Parmesan Risotto

Silky, cheesy risotto offers an indulgent texture that pairs beautifully with the lobster.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The slightly bitter edge of crispy sprouts balances the sweet lobster meat.

Crusty French Bread

Ideal for mopping up every last bit of that creamy butter sauce.

Caesar Salad

Adds a refreshing crunch and sharpness that cuts through the richness.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, smoky corn adds summer flair to your seafood feast.

A Glass of Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine

Because every fancy dinner needs a perfect wine pairing.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or place them in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry before seasoning.

Q2: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the garlic butter sauce a few hours in advance and gently reheat it over low heat before serving. Add a little splash of cream if it thickens too much.

Q3: What’s the best way to cut open lobster tails?
Use sharp kitchen shears to cut through the top shell down to the tail. Be gentle when pulling the meat out to avoid tearing.

Q4: Can I grill the lobster tails instead of broiling?
Absolutely! Grilling gives the tails a slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Q5: How do I know when the lobster is done?
Lobster meat turns opaque and firm when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking, as it can become tough. A digital thermometer should read 135°F at the thickest part.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood or dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add white wine to the sauce? Did you go heavy on the garlic?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook with confidence.

Follow me on Pinterest for more daily recipes from Life With Livia.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are the ultimate at-home indulgence. They combine elegance and flavor in a dish that feels extravagant without requiring expert-level skills. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself, this recipe promises rich satisfaction in every bite.

With a few quality ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this seafood favorite any night of the week. Give it a try and elevate your dinner to something unforgettable.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?