Broiled Lobster Tail Medallions with Garlic Herb Butter is a dish that whispers luxury and sings with the flavors of the sea. It’s the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary evening into a special occasion, the kind that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Succulent lobster tail, gently broiled until tender and sweet, is paired with a rich, aromatic garlic herb butter that melts into every crevice, creating a silky, savory coating that enhances every morsel. This is not just a recipe—it’s a culinary celebration.
Inspired by coastal cuisines and the elegance of fine dining, this dish balances the brininess of fresh lobster with the earthy, fragrant notes of fresh herbs and the comforting depth of golden, sizzling garlic. It’s best served when you want to impress—on anniversaries, romantic dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for indulgence. What makes it truly special is its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients and careful attention to technique, you can bring restaurant-quality sophistication to your home kitchen.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or a gourmet food explorer, this dish invites you to slow down and savor the moment. The broiling method enhances the natural sweetness of lobster, while the herb butter creates a luxurious glaze that’s both rustic and refined. It’s a true feast for the senses—visually stunning, irresistibly fragrant, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Ingredients
• 4 large lobster tails
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
-
Begin by thawing your lobster tails if they are frozen. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
-
Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top center of the lobster shell, stopping at the base of the tail. Gently pull apart the shell and lift the lobster meat up, placing it on top while keeping it attached at the base. Slice the exposed meat into thick medallions, about 1-inch thick, keeping them aligned along the shell for presentation.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
-
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and fragrant.
-
Reserve about a tablespoon of the herb butter for finishing, then melt the rest in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Stir in the olive oil to create a pourable mixture.
Step 3: Broil and Finish the Lobster
-
Preheat your broiler on high and position the oven rack about 6 inches below the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the prepared lobster tails on it.
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Spoon or brush the melted garlic herb butter generously over each medallion, making sure they’re thoroughly coated. Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque, slightly browned on top, and just firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and dot each medallion with a touch of the reserved cold herb butter to melt over the hot meat.
Variations
• Swap out lobster for jumbo shrimp or scallops for a slightly different texture and price point
• Add a splash of white wine or dry vermouth to the butter sauce for an aromatic boost
• Infuse the butter with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Finish with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil for extra decadence
COOKING Note
• Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor—they elevate the entire profile of the dish.
• Don’t overcook the lobster—lobster meat should be tender and slightly springy, not rubbery.
• Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; the internal temperature should reach 135–140°F.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a risotto for a rich, comforting pairing
• Brighten the plate with grilled asparagus or a fresh garden salad
• Add a glass of chilled Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the seafood flavors
Helpful Tips
• Let the butter soften at room temperature for easy blending with herbs
• Prep your ingredients in advance for a smooth cooking process
• Broiling can happen fast—stay near the oven to avoid burning the lobster tops
• Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges to make the presentation pop
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 340 kcal
Protein: 29 g
Sodium: 460 mg
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Cutting through the shell too roughly—this can damage the meat and ruin presentation
• Skipping the broiler preheat—an unheated broiler won’t give you that golden finish
• Using dried herbs instead of fresh—dried herbs can taste flat and overpowering
• Over-salting the butter—lobster is naturally salty from the sea, so season mindfully
Conclusion
Broiled Lobster Tail Medallions with Garlic Herb Butter is a celebration of simple elegance. With every buttery, herb-perfumed bite, you’re reminded that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. This recipe brings together the best of land and sea—succulent lobster kissed by heat and lovingly coated in golden garlic butter. It’s an invitation to treat yourself and those you care about to something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a quiet moment of luxury, this dish never fails to impress. Let it be your go-to for making memories through food—memories that taste as good as they feel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before preparing.
What’s the best way to thaw lobster tails?
Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed plastic bag for quicker thawing.
Can I prepare the herb butter in advance?
Absolutely. You can make it a day ahead and keep it chilled—just bring it to room temperature before using.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
You can bake the lobster tails at 425°F for about 12–14 minutes, then finish under a high oven setting to brown.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, just scale up the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet or two. Broil in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
BROILED LOBSTER TAIL MEDALLIONS WITH GARLIC HERB BUTTER
- Total Time: 25
Ingredients
Ingredients
• 4 large lobster tails
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
-
Begin by thawing your lobster tails if they are frozen. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
-
Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top center of the lobster shell, stopping at the base of the tail. Gently pull apart the shell and lift the lobster meat up, placing it on top while keeping it attached at the base. Slice the exposed meat into thick medallions, about 1-inch thick, keeping them aligned along the shell for presentation.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
-
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and fragrant.
-
Reserve about a tablespoon of the herb butter for finishing, then melt the rest in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Stir in the olive oil to create a pourable mixture.
Step 3: Broil and Finish the Lobster
-
Preheat your broiler on high and position the oven rack about 6 inches below the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the prepared lobster tails on it.
-
Spoon or brush the melted garlic herb butter generously over each medallion, making sure they’re thoroughly coated. Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque, slightly browned on top, and just firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and dot each medallion with a touch of the reserved cold herb butter to melt over the hot meat.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
Nutrition
- Calories: 340
- Sodium: 460mg
- Protein: 29g