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Broiled lobster creamy garlic butter is my go-to way to serve something special without fussing over complicated steps. The rich sauce pools onto sweet lobster and turns a classic date night meal into something you can actually pull off at home. It is lush and savory and easier than it looks.
The first time I made this, my family could hardly believe it was homemade rather than from a fancy bistro. Now even my picky eater asks for lobster night.
Ingredients
- Lobster tails: provide sweetness and an elegant presentation Always look for tails that feel firm and do not smell briny
- Unsalted butter: forms the velvety sauce Choose high quality European style for flavor
- Fresh garlic: delivers aromatic punch Mince it extra fine for the best texture
- Heavy cream: gives body and richness Use fresh cream whenever possible for the silkiest taste
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens and balances Select juicy lemons that feel heavy for their size
- Salt: brings out all the flavors Use flaky sea salt if you have it
- Freshly cracked black pepper: gives heat and a pop of complexity
- Chopped fresh parsley: adds freshness and color Always use flat leaf if you can
- Shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese (optional for a luxe gratin): Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano or cave-aged Gruyère for best melt and taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lobster:
- Use sharp kitchen shears to carefully cut along the top shell of each thawed lobster tail lengthwise Slip your thumbs beneath the shell to gently lift the lobster meat over the shell keeping it attached at the base This classic butterflied look helps the presentation
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about one minute until fragrant but not browned Pour in heavy cream and fresh lemon juice followed by a good pinch of salt and a grinding of black pepper Let this mixture simmer gently Whisk it as it thickens just a bit after two to three minutes You want a smooth and slightly creamy sauce
- Assemble the Baking Dish:
- Arrange your butterflied lobster tails in a baking dish and spoon the hot garlic butter sauce over each one Try to cover all exposed lobster meat For an extra golden finish sprinkle each tail with shredded Parmesan or Gruyère
- Broil the Lobster:
- Slide the dish under a hot broiler and cook for seven to ten minutes The lobster should turn opaque and tender while the top surface bubbles golden and browned The cheese if using will form a perfect gratin
- Finish and Serve:
- Pull your baking dish from the oven and shower the lobster with fresh parsley and another twist of black pepper Serve at once with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce or some simply roasted spring vegetables
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I remember making this once for our anniversary and my husband asked for seconds before the plates were cleared That never happens
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely before covering and chilling in an airtight container Eat within two days Gently reheat under foil in the oven or microwave at low power to avoid toughening the lobster Save extra sauce separately for drizzling
Ingredient Substitutions
Use large shrimp or scallops if you cannot find lobster and they cook up beautifully in the same broiling method For a dairy free version swap in olive oil and coconut cream skipping the cheese entirely You can swap in a different fresh herb like tarragon
Serving Suggestions
Pair this with a light arugula salad a glass of chilled white wine and some garlic toast for catching any creamy bits If you are serving for a holiday meal consider doubling the sauce so there is enough for everyone to dip bread
Cultural Roots
Broiled lobster tails are a New England favorite and once considered a luxury for special occasions Now affordable frozen lobster makes this classic celebratory meal more accessible at home The blend of butter garlic cream and cheese is absolutely a comfort food move from European kitchens
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Broiled lobster creamy garlic butter will make any occasion memorable and is so simple you can even try it on a weeknight. Enjoy every luscious bite with people you love.
FAQ sur la recette
- → How do I prevent lobster tails from drying out while broiling?
Generously coat the lobster meat with the creamy butter sauce before broiling and keep an eye on cooking time to retain moisture.
- → Can I substitute Gruyère with another cheese?
Yes, Parmesan or a mild white cheddar work well and add a lovely golden topping.
- → What pairs well as a side with broiled lobster?
Warm artisan bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad complement the rich flavors beautifully.
- → How do I tell when lobster meat is done?
The meat turns opaque and white, and the surface becomes slightly browned and golden under the broiler.
- → Is it necessary to cut and lift the lobster meat over the shell?
This technique enhances presentation and ensures even cooking but can be omitted for convenience.