Easy Broiled Lobster Tail Recipe for a Romantic Dinner

There’s something about lobster tail that just screams special occasion. It’s fancy without being fussy, rich without being too much, and honestly, it’s way easier to cook than most people think. If you’re planning a romantic dinner—whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just a night to spoil someone—this easy broiled lobster tail recipe is your golden ticket.

You don’t need a chef’s hat or a long list of ingredients. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, lobster tail cooks super fast, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night.

Why Broiled Lobster Tail?

Boiling and steaming are fine, but broiling brings out the best in lobster tail. The high heat caramelizes the butter, creating those golden, slightly crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy. And let’s be real—lobster tastes better when there’s a little char.

Plus, broiling is foolproof. No complicated techniques, no expensive equipment—just your oven’s broiler and a baking sheet.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

  • 2 lobster tails (4–6 oz each)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika (for color and a little flavor)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but makes it look fancy)

Tools:

  • Kitchen shears (scissors work too)
  • Small bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Brush (or spoon) for buttering
  • Oven with a broiler

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Lobster Tails

First, let’s get those lobster tails ready. Take your kitchen shears and cut a straight line through the top shell, from the thickest part down to the tail fin. Don’t cut all the way through the meat—just the shell.

Once the shell is split, use your fingers to gently loosen the meat from the bottom shell, keeping it attached at the base. Lift it up and rest it on top of the shell. This not only makes the lobster look fancier but also helps it cook evenly.

Pro tip: If the meat curls while cooking, it means you nailed it.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

Melt your butter in a small bowl (a few seconds in the microwave will do). Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This buttery mix is what gives the lobster that rich, irresistible flavor.

Brush (or spoon) half of this buttery goodness over the lobster meat, making sure every bit is covered. Keep the rest for later—you’ll want to brush some on after cooking too.

3. Broil Like a Pro

Set your oven to broil (high) and place your lobster tails on a baking sheet, shell side down. Pop them in the oven, about 6 inches from the broiler, and let them cook for 7–10 minutes, depending on their size.

You’ll know they’re ready when the meat is opaque and white, with a slight golden-brown top. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer—lobster is done when it reaches 140°F (60°C) in the thickest part.

4. Finishing Touches

Once your lobster tails are out of the oven, brush them with the remaining garlic butter while they’re still hot. The warmth will soak up all that flavor, making them even juicier.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley (if you want to be fancy) and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

What to Serve With Lobster Tail?

Lobster is the star of the show, but the right sides can make your dinner feel even more special. Here are some easy ideas:

  • Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any extra lobster juices.
  • Steamed Asparagus – Light, fresh, and pairs beautifully with seafood.
  • Buttery Dinner Rolls – Because extra bread for dipping in garlic butter is never a bad idea.
  • A Simple Side Salad – A little crunch and freshness balance out the richness.

And if you’re feeling extra romantic, a chilled glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) ties it all together.

Tips for the Best Lobster Tail

Use Fresh (or Frozen) Lobster – Fresh is best, but if you’re using frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Don’t Overcook – Lobster gets tough and rubbery if left in the oven too long. Keep an eye on it!
Butter is Everything – Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s what makes the lobster juicy and flavorful.
Broil, Don’t Bake – Baking takes longer and won’t give you that nice golden crust on top.

Perfect for Date Night

This broiled lobster tail recipe isn’t just easy—it’s impressive. Whether you’re cooking for your partner, a special someone, or just treating yourself, it’s a meal that feels straight out of a fancy restaurant without the high price tag.

And the best part? It takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish. That means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the evening.

So light some candles, pour some wine, and get ready to enjoy a dinner that’s simple but unforgettable.

Ready to try it? Let me know how it goes in the comments! 🍽️❤️

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Easy Broiled Lobster Tail Recipe for a Romantic Dinner

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Make a romantic dinner in just 20 minutes with this easy broiled lobster tail recipe! Buttery, garlicky, and perfectly cooked under the broiler, this dish is great for date night, special occasions, or a keto-friendly meal at home.

  • Author: Jane Summerfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Broiling
  • Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb, American, Seafood

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lobster tails (46 oz each)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Lobster Tails – Use kitchen shears to cut a straight line through the top shell, stopping at the tail fin. Gently lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell.

2️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter – Melt butter, then stir in garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Brush half of it over the lobster meat.

3️⃣ Broil – Preheat the oven to broil (high). Place lobster tails 6 inches from the broiler on a baking sheet, shell side down. Broil for 7–10 minutes, until the meat is opaque and lightly golden.

4️⃣ Finish & Serve – Brush with the remaining garlic butter while hot. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For frozen lobster tails – Let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
  • Don’t overcook – Lobster is done when the thickest part reaches 140°F (60°C)
  • Pairing ideas – Serve with mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Please note: The recipe or ingredients shown in the video might vary slightly from what’s listed here. Use the video as an illustration, but for the best results, you might want to stick to the recipe provided in this article.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220 Sugar: 0g Sodium: 480mg Fat: 18g Saturated Fat: 10g Unsaturated Fat: 7g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 1g Fiber: 0g Protein: 19g Cholesterol: 100mg

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Different Seasoning?

Absolutely! While garlic butter is a classic, you can switch things up with any good keto seasoning, Old Bay, or even a touch of honey for sweetness.

How Do I Know If Lobster Is Cooked?

Look for opaque, white meat and a slightly golden top. If you see any gray or translucent areas, it needs more time.

What If I Don’t Have Kitchen Shears?

A sharp knife can work, but be careful! You can also ask your seafood counter to cut them for you.

Can I Grill Lobster Tails Instead?

Yes! Just follow the same steps but grill on medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.