Imagine a world where the tender sweetness of lobster melds with rich, velvety butter, resulting in an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Butter poached lobster tails are not just a dish—they are a spectacular centerpiece that transforms any meal into a luxurious experience. Did you know that the first recorded lobster dish dates back to the 1600s when they were often served as a form of street food? Fast forward to today; this simple but elegant recipe can be a showstopper at your family gatherings or winter evenings.
Much like our popular garlic butter shrimp recipe, this dish proves that seafood can be both decadent and approachable. So why not treat your loved ones to a meal that speaks of sophistication without the fuss? By preparing butter poached lobster tails right at home, you not only save money but elevate your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish!

What is Butter Poached Lobster Tails?
Let’s break it down: butter poached lobster tails—sounds fancy, right? But what’s the deal with this name? Well, it’s pretty straightforward: we’re literally poaching delicious lobster tails in butter. Who wouldn’t want that? We’ve turned a potentially intimidating seafood dish into something that you can whip up with ease. Remember, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and believe me, this dish will win over anyone around your dinner table. So don’t just sit there wondering—grab those ingredients, and let’s embark on this delicious journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Butter Poached Lobster Tails
Butter poached lobster tails are the epitome of luxury dining, and the best part? They can be made in the comfort of your home! This dish highlights the delicate flavors of the lobster while keeping it succulent and juicy, encapsulated in buttery goodness. Not to mention, cooking at home can save you a pretty penny—dining out for lobster can be quite pricey, but preparing these silky tails yourself is a cost-effective choice.
As you savor each bite, you’ll be treated to a symphony of flavors and textures—crisp on the outside, incredibly tender on the inside. Want an exciting twist? Top your lobster tails with fresh herbs and zesty lemon for an extra pop that rivals any seafood restaurant dish. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Butter Poached Lobster Tails
Quick Overview
Butter poached lobster tails are an easy and satisfying dish that delivers the ultimate seafood experience. The texture is beautifully tender while the flavor is rich and creamy, making it a perfect choice for special occasions. With just a total preparation and cooking time of about 30 minutes, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready to impress!
Key Ingredients for Butter Poached Lobster Tails
- 4 lobster tails (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water (or seafood stock for added flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation of Lobster Tails:
Begin by using kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise down the center. This allows the butter to seep in and cook the meat evenly. Gently pull the meat out of the shell, but keep it attached at the base. - Creating the Butter Bath:
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and water (or seafood stock). Heat over low temperature until the butter melts completely, giving it a gentle swirl to combine. - Adding Flavors:
Throw in the minced garlic and lemon juice into the melted butter mixture. Allow this to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully. - Poaching the Lobster:
Next, carefully drop the prepared lobster tails into the butter bath. Ensure the tails are fully submerged. Cook them on low heat for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. - Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, gently remove the lobster tails and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle some of the buttery sauce over the tails and sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness.
Top Tips for Perfecting Butter Poached Lobster Tails
- Substitutions: If you’re looking to switch it up, you could use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. Just note that the texture may differ.
- Timing: Make sure not to overcook your lobster tails; they should be tender and juicy, not tough. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid cranking up the heat. Cooking low and slow is key for the best butter-poached method to ensure silky texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your butter poached lobster tails, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently—try using a microwave-safe dish with a cover to prevent drying out, or reheat them in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of water to help maintain moisture.
Now that you know how to prepare butter poached lobster tails, it’s time to bring this luxurious dish to your dining table. Gather your loved ones, pour some refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, and savor this delightful seafood experience together. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Butter Poached Lobster Tails
Ingredients
Method
- Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise down the center to allow the butter to seep in and cook the meat evenly. Gently pull the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and water (or seafood stock). Heat over low temperature until the butter melts completely, giving it a gentle swirl to combine.
- Add the minced garlic and lemon juice into the melted butter mixture. Allow this to simmer for about 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Carefully drop the prepared lobster tails into the butter bath, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cook them on low heat for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
- Gently remove the lobster tails and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle some of the buttery sauce over the tails and sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness.

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