Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Crust

Introduction

Experience the ultimate seafood indulgence with these Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails. Tender lobster meat topped with a golden garlic butter crust, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner. Simple to prepare yet packed with elegance, this recipe will leave everyone impressed. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Lobster Tails:

• 4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Stuffing:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut and Butterfly the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Stop at the base of the tail, being careful not to cut the meat.
3. Expose the Meat: Gently pull the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and place it on top of the shell for presentation.
4. Season: Drizzle the lobster tails with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
2. Stuff the Lobster: Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the lobster meat, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Bake the Lobster Tails

1. Place on a Baking Sheet: Arrange the stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and the stuffing is golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Garlic and Lemon: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and parsley.

Step 5: Serve

1. Drizzle Sauce: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the baked lobster tails.
2. Garnish: Add fresh lemon wedges and additional parsley for garnish.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Lobster tails cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Check for opaque, tender meat.
• Fresh Lobster: Use fresh lobster tails for the best flavor, but frozen can work if properly thawed.
• Extra Crunch: For a crispier topping, broil the lobster for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for date nights or dinner parties.
• Rich Flavor: The buttery, garlicky topping complements the sweet lobster meat beautifully.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Conclusion

These Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Crust are the epitome of seafood luxury. With tender, flavorful meat and a crunchy, golden topping, they’re sure to become a favorite for special occasions. Try this recipe and treat yourself to a gourmet experience at home!