Grilled Lobster Tails Recipe

Thank you so much for being here — because if you’ve been craving something elegant, buttery, and downright indulgent, this Grilled Lobster Tails Recipe is your golden ticket. Whether it’s a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or just a reason to fire up the grill, lobster tails are surprisingly easy to make at home — and so much more affordable than ordering them at a steakhouse.

💌 Love gourmet recipes that are secretly simple? Subscribe to my newsletter for easy, show-stopping dishes like this delivered weekly!

What Are Grilled Lobster Tails?

Grilled lobster tails are the meaty, sweet tail portion of the lobster, split open and grilled to perfection with a garlicky lemon-butter baste. The grill adds just the right amount of smokiness while the butter infuses every bite with richness and flavor. The result? Tender, juicy lobster with crisp, golden edges that taste like pure coastal luxury.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Restaurant-quality meal at home

• ✅ Simple prep + fast cook time

• ✅ Perfect for summer grilling or special occasions

• ✅ Naturally low-carb and gluten-free

• ✅ Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides

What It Tastes Like

Grilled lobster tails are mild, slightly sweet, and buttery, with a light smoky char from the grill. The meat is tender but firm — like a cross between shrimp and crab — and the lemon-garlic butter brings just the right balance of brightness and richness to every bite.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Cooks in under 10 minutes

• No complicated equipment or ingredients

• Impressive presentation

• Easy to double or triple for guests

• Customizable with your favorite herbs or spices

Ingredients for Grilled Lobster Tails

• 2 lobster tails (4–6 oz each), thawed if frozen

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Paprika or smoked paprika, for color (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Kitchen shears or sharp knife

• Basting brush

• Grill or grill pan

• Tongs

• Small saucepan (for butter sauce)

• Instant-read thermometer (optional but helpful)

Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ons

• 🧈 Butter Substitutes

  • Olive oil – Use in place of butter for a lighter or dairy-free option.

  • Ghee – Clarified butter with a rich, nutty flavor and higher smoke point (great for grilling!).

  • Vegan butter – Ideal for dairy-free diners, still gives you that luscious, buttery finish.

  🧄 Garlic Substitutes

  • Garlic powder – Use ½ teaspoon in place of fresh garlic for a more mellow flavor.

  • Shallots – Mince finely and use in place of garlic for a delicate, slightly sweet twist.

  • Roasted garlic paste – Adds a more mellow, umami-rich flavor if you want to dial up the decadence.

  🍋 Lemon Alternatives

  • Lime juice – Adds a citrusy tang with a slightly tropical twist.

  • White wine – A splash of dry white wine can substitute for lemon juice in the butter mix.

  • Lemon zest – Use when you’re out of juice or want an extra citrus kick without added liquid.

  🌿 Herb Variations

  • Chives or dill – Fresh and light, perfect with seafood.

  • Thyme or tarragon – Adds an elegant, slightly floral note.

  • Basil or cilantro – Great for adding brightness or a summery twist.

  🌶️ Add a Kick

  • Cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes – For subtle heat.

  • Cajun or Creole seasoning – For bold Southern flavor.

  • Smoked paprika – Adds color and a deep, smoky element that pairs beautifully with the grill.

  🧂 Flavor Enhancers

  • Old Bay seasoning – A classic pairing with seafood for a bold, spiced edge.

  • Sea salt or flaky salt – Enhances flavor and adds texture.

  • Lemon pepper – A quick, zesty seasoning shortcut that works beautifully with lobster.

  Add-On Ideas

  Want to dress your lobster tails up even more? Try these fun and flavorful add-ons:

  • Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping – Mix panko, Parmesan, butter, and herbs; sprinkle on top before grilling and broil for a golden finish.

  • Grilled Corn Salsa – Serve on the side or spoon over grilled tails for a summery, colorful twist.

  • Drawn Butter Dipping Sauce – Keep it classic with a side of plain melted butter for dipping.

  • Surf & Turf – Pair with grilled steak or filet mignon for an indulgent main course.

How to Make Grilled Lobster Tails

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Lobster Tails

• Thaw lobster tails overnight in the fridge if frozen.

• Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin.

• Gently open the shell and lift the meat out, resting it on top of the shell for presentation (“piggyback” style). Be careful not to detach it entirely.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter with olive oil over low heat.

• Stir in garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

3. Preheat the Grill

• Heat grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F).

• Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Lobster Tails

• Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter.

• Place the tails meat side down on the grill for 4–5 minutes.

• Flip and brush again with butter. Cook another 3–4 minutes, until the lobster is opaque and firm, and the internal temp reaches 130–140°F.

5. Serve

• Transfer to a platter and brush with more butter.

• Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

• Serve hot — and get ready for compliments!

What to Serve With Grilled Lobster Tails

These tails are luxurious, but they’re even better with the right sides:

🍽️ Best Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini

• Corn on the cob with chili-lime butter

• Lemon orzo salad

• Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette

🥖 Bread + Dips

• Crusty French bread for mopping up the butter

• Garlic knots or dinner rolls

• Aioli or herb butter for dipping

🍷 Wine & Drink Pairings

• Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

• Champagne or Prosecco for a fancy touch

• Sparkling lemonade or cucumber mint water for a non-alcoholic refresher

Tips for the Best Grilled Lobster Tails

• 🔪 Butterfly the Tails for Even Cooking

  • Use kitchen shears to cut down the top of the shell and gently lift the meat out to rest on top (“piggyback style”). This helps the lobster cook evenly and makes for a beautiful presentation.

  ❄️ Thaw Completely Before Grilling

  • If using frozen tails, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Grilling frozen or half-frozen lobster can result in uneven cooking and tough texture.

  🌡️ Don’t Overcook!

  • Lobster cooks fast — just 7–9 minutes total.

  • Cook until the meat is opaque, white, and firm, but still juicy.

  • Use an instant-read thermometer if you’re unsure: 130–140°F is perfect.

  🧈 Use Flavored Butter Generously

  • Baste the lobster with garlic butter, lemon herb butter, or even a little Cajun spice blend for big flavor.

  • Brush before grilling and again after flipping for maximum moisture and taste.

  🔥 Grill Meat-Side Down First

  • Start by grilling meat-side down for 4–5 minutes to get a nice char, then flip to finish cooking and baste with butter.

  🪵 Use a Clean, Hot Grill

  • Preheat to medium-high (400–450°F) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

  • A hot grill gives the shell a great color and helps caramelize the butter on the surface.

  🍋 Don’t Skip the Lemon

  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brings out the lobster’s sweetness and brightens the whole dish.

  🥄 Serve Extra Butter on the Side

  • Because more butter is never a bad idea — especially when it’s melted, herby, and perfect for dipping!

  🧊 Let the Butter Cool Slightly Before Basting

  • Hot butter can cook the meat too quickly when brushed on raw lobster. Let it cool for a minute after melting to avoid premature cooking.

Storage Instructions

• 🧊 Refrigerator

  • Cool completely before storing — let the lobster tails rest at room temperature for no more than 30 minutes after cooking.

  • Place in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Best when reheated gently to preserve texture and moisture (see tips below).

  🔥 How to Reheat Grilled Lobster Tails

  To keep the lobster tender and juicy:

  • Oven method: Place in a baking dish, add a splash of water or melted butter, and cover with foil. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through.

  • Stovetop method: Gently reheat in a covered skillet with butter over low heat for 5–6 minutes.

  • Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the lobster rubbery.

  ❄️ Freezing (Not Ideal, But Possible)

  • For best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy lobster fresh.

  • If you must freeze:

    • Remove the meat from the shell.

    • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

    • Freeze for up to 1 month.

    • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

General Info About Grilled Lobster

Grilling lobster brings out its natural sweetness with the bonus of charred, smoky edges. It’s often reserved for restaurants or holidays, but with this recipe, you can make it any time you’re craving something special. Whether you’re grilling for two or feeding a crowd, lobster tails are a high-impact, low-effort centerpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the lobster is done?

When the meat is opaque, white, and firm, and the shell is bright red. Internal temp should be around 130–140°F.

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, but thaw them fully in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Can I grill with the shell on?

Yes! Just cut and lift the meat out (“piggyback style”) to ensure even cooking and beautiful presentation.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can broil them in the oven — place them on a baking sheet and broil for 7–10 minutes, basting halfway through.

Conclusion

These Grilled Lobster Tails are everything you want in a special meal — simple, showy, and outrageously delicious. With garlicky lemon butter and that perfect char from the grill, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels fancy without the fuss.

Pair them with a glass of white wine, your favorite summer sides, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like a seaside vacation — no plane ticket required.

Show Me Your Lobster Tails!

Did you try this recipe? I have to see them!
📸 Tag me on Pinterest or leave a review — I love seeing your grilling wins and beautiful plating!

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Lobster Tail with Butter)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 27g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbs: 1g

• Sugar: 0g

Grilled Lobster Tails Recipe

---

• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Grilled Lobster Tails are buttery, smoky, and absolutely indulgent — perfect for date nights, celebrations, or just an elegant summer dinner at home. With a simple garlic lemon butter baste and a few minutes on the grill, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make and impossible to forget.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lobster tails (4–6 oz each), thawed if frozen
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Optional: paprika or smoked paprika, for color

---

Instructions

1. Thaw lobster tails in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the top shell, stopping before the tail fin. Gently open the shell and lift the meat to rest on top (piggyback style).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter with olive oil. Stir in garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F) and lightly oil grates.
4. Brush lobster meat with garlic butter. Place tails meat-side down on the grill for 4–5 minutes. Flip, brush again, and cook 3–4 more minutes until meat is opaque and internal temp reaches 130–140°F.
5. Transfer to a platter and brush with remaining butter. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot.

Notes

Use thawed tails for even cooking. Don’t overcook — lobster turns rubbery fast. Baste generously while grilling for flavor and moisture. A thermometer ensures perfect doneness. Add wood chips for a smoky twist!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lobster tail with butter
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: grilled lobster, lobster tails, garlic butter lobster, summer grilling, romantic dinner