There's something truly indulgent about biting into a perfectly cooked lobster tail, especially when it's drenched in warm garlic butter and kissed by the grill. The smoky aroma, the tender meat, and that rich, buttery glaze make this dish the very definition of summer luxury.

I first made these garlic butter lobster tails for a backyard dinner party on a sweltering July evening. I wanted something impressive but easy, something that would make guests go "wow" without chaining me to the kitchen. Since then, this recipe has become my go-to for everything from romantic dinners to casual weekend grilling sessions.

Whether you're planning a beachside dinner, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to something special, these lobster tails are quick, elegant, and utterly delicious. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a summer staple you’ll want on repeat.

Why You'll Love This Summer Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

This dish brings restaurant-quality seafood to your backyard grill – no reservations required.

First off, it’s surprisingly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can go from fridge to plate in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

It also checks the box for impressive but affordable. Lobster tails are often on sale during the summer, and when you cook them at home, you get gourmet flavor without the restaurant markup.

Then there's the flavor. The garlic herb butter melts into the crevices of the lobster meat, infusing it with a rich, savory depth. Add the smoky char from the grill, and you’ve got a bite that’s pure summer magic.

Finally, this recipe is versatile and foolproof. Don’t have a grill? You can broil them in the oven. Want to switch up the herbs or spice level? Totally up to you. It's a recipe that encourages creativity while delivering consistent results every time.

If you’ve ever been intimidated by cooking lobster, this recipe will change that. Let’s talk ingredients next.

Ingredients Notes

What makes these garlic butter lobster tails shine is their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role in building bold flavor without overshadowing the delicate sweetness of the lobster.

Let’s start with the star: lobster tails. Choose tails that are about 4–6 ounces each for the best balance of size and tenderness. You can find them fresh or frozen at most seafood counters. If using frozen, just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Next is the garlic – and don’t skimp! Freshly minced garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor. When melted into butter, it creates a golden glaze that seeps into every bite of the lobster.

Speaking of butter, go for unsalted butter so you can better control the seasoning. Melted and combined with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, it becomes the luxurious sauce that makes this dish sing.

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten the richness of the butter and add that pop of color right before serving. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of tarragon or dill for a more complex flavor.

You’ll also need a splash of lemon juice – just enough to cut through the richness of the butter and enhance the sweetness of the lobster. A few wedges on the side are perfect for squeezing over just before serving.

As for equipment, a sharp pair of kitchen shears makes splitting the lobster tails a breeze, and a grill or broiler will help you get that perfect charred finish. A basting brush also comes in handy for applying that dreamy garlic butter.

How To Make This Summer Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe

Cooking these lobster tails is easier than you might think – and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Start by prepping your lobster tails. Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of each shell, lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently pull the meat upward, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell. This makes for gorgeous presentation and even cooking.

Next, make your garlic butter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and let it gently sizzle for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Stir in your chopped herbs, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set it aside, keeping it warm.

Now it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Brush each lobster tail generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat the exposed meat well.

Place the lobster tails meat-side up directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 5–6 minutes, basting halfway through. The meat will turn opaque and lightly charred, with the edges curling just slightly – that’s your visual cue they’re done.

Remove the lobster tails from the grill and drizzle with a final spoonful of warm garlic butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra herbs.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 minutes, including prep. The result? A dish that looks stunning, tastes even better, and leaves you with minimal cleanup.

Storage Options

While lobster is best served fresh off the grill, you can absolutely store leftovers if needed.

Let any leftover lobster meat cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to pour any remaining garlic butter over the meat to help keep it moist.

If you’d like to store it longer, the lobster meat can be removed from the shell and frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

To reheat, gently warm the lobster meat in a skillet with a bit of melted butter over low heat. Avoid the microwave – it tends to toughen the meat and zap the delicate flavor. A quick steam in a covered pan also works well if you prefer a softer texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a great canvas for flavor, and you can tailor it to suit your taste or pantry.

Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to your garlic butter for a spicy twist. It pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the lobster.

For a smoky BBQ vibe, try using smoked paprika or a touch of chipotle in the butter mixture. It adds depth and complements the grilled flavor perfectly.

No fresh herbs? No problem. Dried parsley or Italian seasoning will still give a nice flavor boost, though you’ll want to reduce the amount slightly since dried herbs are more concentrated.

If you’re not a fan of grilling, you can easily broil the lobster tails in your oven. Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet and cook under the broiler for about 5–6 minutes, just like on the grill.

And if lobster isn’t in the cards, you can use this same garlic butter method on shrimp, scallops, or even salmon. It’s an incredibly versatile sauce that elevates almost any seafood.

No matter how you serve them, these garlic butter lobster tails are sure to steal the spotlight. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy a little luxury – you deserve it.