Cast Iron Lobster Tail with Butter Lemon Sauce
Cooking lobster tail in a cast iron skillet delivers a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Paired with a rich, buttery lemon sauce, this dish is indulgent yet simple, making it perfect for special occasions or an impressive weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Achieve a crispy sear and tender, flavorful meat.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
Rich and Buttery: A decadent lemon butter sauce enhances every bite.
Shopping List:
Lobster tails
Butter (unsalted)
Fresh lemon
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Ingredients (Serves 2):
2 lobster tails (5-6 oz each)
2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using a knife, split the lobster tails.
Season the Lobster: Pat dry and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat the Skillet: In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
Fry the Lobster: Once the skillet is hot, place the lobster tails meat-side down and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Flip and cook shell-side down for another 3-4 minutes until the meat is opaque.
Make the Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, then squeeze in the lemon juice and baste the lobster tails with the sauce.
Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and extra butter sauce.
Pro Tips:
Don’t Overcook: Lobster cooks quickly! Once the meat is opaque and firm, it’s done.
Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the butter sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Pair It: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
Fun Alterations:
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the butter sauce.
Garlic Parmesan: Stir in 1 tbsp of grated Parmesan for a rich, cheesy finish.
Surf & Turf: Serve alongside a juicy steak for the ultimate indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes! Just thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What’s the best way to know when lobster is done?
The meat should turn from translucent to opaque and reach an internal temperature of 135-140°F.
Can I cook this in a regular pan?
Yes, but a cast iron skillet gives the best sear and flavor.
