Grilled Cajun Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Cajun Garlic Butter Lobster Tails bring together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and butter, all of which complement the naturally sweet and delicate taste of the lobster. Grilled to perfection, the tails have a slight char that adds depth and smokiness to each bite, while the garlic butter sauce keeps the lobster moist and juicy. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a seafood feast, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the lobster tails: Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise to expose the lobster meat. Gently pull the lobster meat out, keeping it attached to the tail, and place it on top of the shell. You can also make a shallow cut along the meat to make it easier to pull apart when grilling.

2. Make the garlic butter sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

3. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).

4. Brush the lobster tails: Brush the lobster meat generously with the Cajun garlic butter sauce, making sure to coat it well. Reserve some of the butter sauce for basting during grilling and serving.

5. Grill the lobster tails: Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat-side down, and grill for about 5-7 minutes. Then, flip the lobster tails so the meat side is facing up, and continue grilling for another 4-6 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the lobster, as it can become tough.

6. Baste and finish: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the lobster tails with the reserved garlic butter sauce to enhance the flavor.

7. Serve: Remove the lobster tails from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for a spicier kick.

• Herb variations: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter mixture for a more aromatic flavor.

• Cheesy version: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top of the lobster meat during the last minute of grilling.

• Use different seafood: This garlic butter sauce works great with shrimp, crab legs, or other shellfish, so feel free to experiment with your favorite seafood.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover grilled lobster tails can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the lobster tails gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving as it can make the lobster meat rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before grilling. This will ensure they cook evenly and retain their tenderness.

2. How do I know when the lobster tails are done?

Lobster tails are done when the meat is opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). If you cut into the meat, it should no longer be translucent.

3. Can I grill lobster tails without splitting the shell?

Yes, you can grill lobster tails without splitting the shell, but it will be harder to access the meat. Splitting the shell makes it easier to season and grill the lobster evenly.

4. How do I prevent lobster tails from becoming tough?

To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the lobster while grilling and avoid cooking it for too long. It’s best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

5. Can I bake lobster tails instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake lobster tails in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through. Be sure to baste the lobster with the garlic butter mixture before and after baking for added flavor.

6. Can I use other types of seasoning besides Cajun?

Yes, you can substitute Cajun seasoning with Old Bay seasoning, lemon pepper, or a garlic herb seasoning if you prefer a different flavor profile.

7. Can I serve this with a dipping sauce?

Yes, you can serve these lobster tails with additional dipping sauces, such as extra garlic butter, a lemon aioli, or a tangy cocktail sauce for a nice contrast in flavor.

8. How should I serve grilled Cajun garlic butter lobster tails?

Grilled Cajun garlic butter lobster tails are perfect with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with warm crusty bread to dip in the extra garlic butter sauce.

9. Can I cook the lobster tails on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Yes, you can cook lobster tails in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the lobster tails for 5-7 minutes on each side until the meat is opaque and cooked through.

10. How do I store leftover lobster tails?

Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve their texture.

Conclusion

Grilled Cajun Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress anyone who loves seafood. The blend of Cajun spices, garlic, and rich butter perfectly complements the sweet lobster meat, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or just because, these lobster tails are the perfect choice for an unforgettable meal.

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