Butter-Poached Lobster Tails
These Butter-Poached Lobster Tails are tender, luxurious, and gently cooked in a garlic-herb infused butter. Finished with lemon for brightness, this dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, special occasion, or elevated seafood night at home.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails 6–8 oz each, shell-on
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves smashed
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- Handful fresh parsley stems
- Zest of 1 lemon + 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- Kosher salt & white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Tails: Thaw, cut shell lengthwise, expose meat.
- Infuse Butter: Melt butter over low heat with garlic, thyme, parsley, lemon zest & juice; hold at 160–170°F for 5 min.
- Poach: Remove aromatics; submerge lobster meat in butter; poach 6–8 min, basting, until 135°F.
- Serve: Plate tails, spoon butter over, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/butter-poached-lobster-tails/
Notes
- Butter Poaching Tip: Keep the butter temperature low to avoid boiling—it should never sizzle.
- Shell-On Advantage: Cooking with the shell on helps protect the delicate meat and enhances flavor.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the butter.
- Make It Special: Add a splash of white wine or Champagne to the butter for extra elegance.