
Transform your dinner into a luxurious experience with these Buttery Grilled Lobster Tails. Succulent lobster tails are grilled to perfection and basted with a rich, herb-infused Cowboy Butter sauce. This elegant dish is surprisingly simple to prepare and ready in under 20 minutes!
This recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers. The combination of smoky charred lobster and luscious butter sauce is irresistible. It’s always a hit at my family gatherings, and I love how quickly it comes together!
Choosing the Best Ingredients
- Lobster Tails
Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen lobster tails for the best flavor. Look for firm, translucent meat without any fishy odor. - Butter
Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning. High-quality butter makes all the difference in the richness of the sauce. - Garlic
Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with a deep, aromatic taste. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best results. - Lemon Juice
Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the butter. - Paprika & Red Pepper Flakes
These spices add warmth and a slight smoky heat. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

Cooking Instructions
- Preparing the Grill
- Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce
- Prepping the Lobster Tails
- Grilling to Perfection
- Serving Suggestions
Arrange on a platter with extra sauce drizzled over the top.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges for a citrusy kick.
Pair with grilled asparagus or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
I always make extra Cowboy Butter because it’s so versatile—it’s amazing on steak and even roasted vegetables!
Recipe Variations
- Garlic Herb Butter: Swap smoked paprika for fresh thyme and rosemary.
- Spicy Cajun: Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
- Oven Broiled Version: Broil lobster tails in the oven for 4-5 minutes per side instead of grilling.

Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or a low-heat oven with a drizzle of butter to keep it moist.
- Avoid freezing cooked lobster as it can become rubbery.
Grilled lobster tails are a showstopper every time. This recipe turns an ordinary dinner into something truly special with minimal effort. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know when lobster tails are done cooking?
- Lobster tails are done when the meat turns opaque and white throughout with no translucent parts. The internal temperature should reach 140°F. They typically take about 8-10 minutes total on the grill.
- → Can I make the cowboy butter sauce ahead of time?
- Yes! You can make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before using to melt the butter again.
- → What sides go well with grilled lobster tails?
- Grilled corn on the cob, asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully with cowboy butter lobster tails.
- → Can I use frozen lobster tails?
- Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before grilling for even cooking.
- → Can I cook these lobster tails in the oven instead?
- Yes, you can broil them in the oven for about 10 minutes total. Place them 4-6 inches from the heat source and flip halfway through cooking.