Seared Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce
Impress your guests—or treat yourself—with this elegant yet surprisingly easy dish. Seared Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce features perfectly seared lobster basted in buttery spices and served with a rich creamy garlic butter sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make right at home ready in under 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails:
4 lobster tails split in half
2 tbsp butter melted
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh chives chopped for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Prep Lobster:
In a small bowl combine melted butter paprika garlic powder salt and pepper. Brush the mixture over the split lobster tails
Sear Lobster Tails:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the lobster tails flesh side down and sear for 2–3 minutes until slightly golden. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until shells are bright red and meat is opaque. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil
Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the white wine or broth heavy cream Dijon mustard salt and black pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add lemon juice and stir
Finish and Serve:
Return lobster tails to the pan and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to heat through. Garnish with chopped chives and serve with lemon wedges
Tips
Use kitchen shears to split lobster tails cleanly and evenly
Pat lobster meat dry before searing to help get a nice golden crust
Do not overcook lobster as it can become tough and rubbery
Baste with sauce just before serving to keep the lobster moist and flavorful
Use a cast iron or stainless steel skillet for best sear results
Variations
Substitute shrimp scallops or crab meat for a twist on the recipe
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version
Add chopped parsley or tarragon in place of chives for a different flavor profile
Serve over pasta mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to make it a full meal
Q&A
Q Can I use frozen lobster tails?
A Yes just thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or under cold water before cooking
Q What can I use instead of white wine?
A Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well as a non-alcoholic substitute
Q Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A Yes the garlic butter sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving
Q How do I know when the lobster is done?
A The meat will turn opaque and white and the shells will be bright red
Nutrition Info Estimated per serving based on 4 servings
Calories 340
Protein 26g
Carbohydrates 3g
Sugars 1g
Fat 25g
Saturated Fat 13g
Sodium 460mg
Fiber 0g
Note values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used
Conclusion
Seared Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish perfect for special occasions or an elevated dinner at home. With tender buttery lobster and a velvety sauce infused with garlic and lemon every bite delivers comfort and elegance. Serve it with your favorite sides and a glass of wine or sparkling water for a truly memorable meal