Butter Poached Lobster Tails

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet simple seafood dish, Butter Poached Lobster Tails are the ultimate treat! The rich, velvety butter bath keeps the lobster juicy and tender while enhancing its naturally sweet flavor. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
• Foolproof Method – Poaching keeps the lobster from drying out.
• Minimal Ingredients – Just lobster, butter, and a few aromatics.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Lobster Tails (2 large or 4 small) – Fresh or frozen, thawed if needed.
• Butter (1 cup, unsalted) – The key to a silky poaching sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth of flavor.
• Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens up the dish.
• Water (¼ cup) – Helps emulsify the butter sauce.
• Salt (½ tsp, or to taste) – Enhances the flavor.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – For a hint of warmth.
• Fresh Chives or Parsley (for garnish) – Optional, but adds freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Tongs for handling lobster
• Kitchen scissors (to cut the lobster shells)
• Small whisk (to emulsify the butter sauce)

Let’s Make Butter Poached Lobster Tails!

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Use kitchen scissors to cut down the top of each lobster tail shell. Gently pull the meat up, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.

Step 2: Make the Butter Sauce

2. In a large skillet over low heat, add ¼ cup water and let it warm up.
3. Gradually add in the butter, a few tablespoons at a time, whisking constantly until melted and smooth. This helps emulsify the sauce so it stays creamy.

Step 3: Poach the Lobster

4. Stir in garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into the butter mixture.
5. Add the lobster tails to the pan, making sure the butter coats the meat. Cook over low heat for 5–7 minutes, basting the lobster frequently with the butter sauce. The lobster is done when the meat turns opaque and firm.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

6. Transfer the lobster tails to a plate, drizzle with extra butter sauce, and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

What to Serve with Butter Poached Lobster

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and perfect for soaking up the butter.
• Steamed Asparagus – A fresh, light side.
• Buttery Dinner Rolls – To mop up the delicious sauce.
• Side of Pasta – Tossed in a bit of the poaching butter.

Tips for Perfect Butter Poached Lobster

• Keep the heat low – Do not let the butter boil or the lobster will turn rubbery.
• Baste frequently – Spoon butter over the lobster for extra tenderness.
• Use clarified butter – If you want an even silkier texture, clarify the butter first.
• Don’t overcook! – The lobster should be opaque and tender (internal temp: 140°F).

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat with extra butter. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the lobster tough.
• Freezing is not recommended as the texture will change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes! Thaw them overnight in the fridge before poaching.

What’s the best butter to use?
Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.

Can I add more seasonings?
Absolutely! Try adding a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or Old Bay for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Butter Poached Lobster Tails recipe brings restaurant-quality elegance to your table in just 20 minutes. Rich, tender, and bathed in garlic butter, it’s a dish that will impress every time!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American Seafood

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 380 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fat: 32g | Sodium: 480mg

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out!

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