Ina Garten Lobster Tail Recipe

Introduction

This Ina Garten lobster tail recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a luxurious seafood dinner at home. With garlic butter and a touch of lemon, these lobster tails bake to tender perfection in just 25 minutes. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.

Ingredients

• 2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: Use kitchen scissors to cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently pull the meat slightly out of the shell to ensure even cooking.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make the garlic butter mixture.
4. Step 4: Place the lobster tails on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, reserving some for serving.
5. Step 5: Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until the meat is opaque and slightly firm. Be careful not to overcook.
6. Step 6: Remove the lobster tails from the oven and brush them with the reserved garlic butter for extra flavor and shine.
7. Step 7: Garnish the lobster tails with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
• You can broil the lobster tails for the last 2 minutes to give a slight charred finish, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftover cooked lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave just until warmed through to avoid toughening the meat. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster tails can be used. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing to ensure even cooking.

How do I know when the lobster tails are fully cooked?

The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch. Overcooking can make it tough, so bake just until the meat changes color and feels slightly firm.

Ina Garten Lobster Tail Recipe

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This Ina Garten Lobster Tail recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy succulent lobster tails baked with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfectly cooked in under 25 minutes, this dish features tender lobster meat enhanced with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and paprika, making it a delightful seafood entrée ideal for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Seafood
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Lobster

• 2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)

Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

• Lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
2. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise down the center. Gently pull the meat slightly out of the shell to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
3. Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a well-blended garlic butter sauce.
4. Brush Lobster with Butter: Place the prepared lobster tails onto the lined baking sheet. Generously brush each tail with the garlic butter mixture, reserving some butter for serving later.
5. Bake the Lobster Tails: Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The lobster meat should turn opaque and feel slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness.
6. Add More Butter: Once baked, remove the lobster tails from the oven and brush them again with the reserved garlic butter to enhance flavor and add a glossy finish.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the lobster tails with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Do not overcook the lobster tails as they can become tough and rubbery.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact in the garlic butter sauce.
• Cutting the shell and pulling the meat out slightly helps the lobster cook evenly and absorb more of the garlic butter.
• Serving immediately after baking ensures optimal texture and taste.
• Foil or parchment paper on the baking sheet makes cleanup quick and easy.

Keywords: Ina Garten, Lobster Tail, Garlic Butter Lobster, Baked Lobster Recipe, Easy Seafood Recipe