Skip to main content

Grilled Lobster Tail Recipe for BBQ Feast

Grill to Thrill: The Best Grilled Lobster Tail Recipe for Your BBQ Feast

There’s something undeniably luxurious about lobster tails sizzling on the grill, their tender meat absorbing the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and smoky char. I still remember the first time I grilled lobster tails for a backyard BBQ—it was a game-changer! The combination of juicy seafood with bold seasonings turned an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable feast.

If you’ve ever wondered how to cook lobster tails on the grill and want an easy, foolproof recipe that’s bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place. This grilled lobster tail recipe bbq guide will walk you through everything from choosing lobster tails to the best seasonings and side dishes to serve alongside. Let’s fire up that grill!

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

Grill to Thrill: The Best Grilled Lobster Tail Recipe for Your BBQ Feast

Choosing the Right Lobster Tails

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about choosing the right lobster tails. You’ll often find two types in stores:

  • Fresh lobster tails – These are perfect if you have access to high-quality seafood markets.

  • Frozen lobster tails – More commonly available and just as delicious when thawed properly.

    • If you’re using frozen lobster tails, always thaw them in cold water for about 30 minutes or in the refrigerator overnight. Never use warm water, as it can cause uneven thawing and affect texture. Small lobster tails (5-7 oz) are ideal for grilling since they cook evenly and remain juicy.

    How to Prepare Lobster Tails for Grilling

    Proper preparation ensures your lobster tails cook beautifully and absorb all the delicious flavors.

    Butterflying the Lobster Tail

    Using kitchen shears, cut through the top shell down to the tail, but don’t cut the bottom shell.

    Gently pull the meat up through the shell while keeping it attached at the base.

    Lay the meat on top of the shell—it will look fancy and cook more evenly!

    Rinse under cold water to remove any debris.

    Best Seasoning for Grilled Lobster Tails

    To bring out the best flavors, I use a simple yet incredible Old Bay seasoning and garlic herb sauce.

    Ingredients:

  • 4 lobster tails (5-7 oz each)

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 tbsp minced garlic

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

    • Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. This sauce not only enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster but also keeps the meat moist while grilling.

    Product Recommendation: Kitchen Shears for Easy Preparation

    Product: OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears

    Why You Need It: A good pair of kitchen shears makes cutting through lobster shells effortless. The OXO Good Grips shears have sharp stainless-steel blades and a comfortable grip, making them perfect for handling seafood.

    Get yours here

    How to Cook Lobster Tails on the Grill

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

    1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).

    2. Brush lobster tails with the garlic herb butter mixture.

    3. Place the tails shell-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes.

    4. Baste with more butter sauce halfway through grilling.

    5. Check for doneness – The meat should be opaque and firm (internal temperature of 140°F).

    6. Remove from grill and serve immediately with extra garlic butter sauce.

    Product Recommendation: Best Grill for Seafood

    Product: Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill

    Why You Need It: This gas grill provides even heat distribution, making it ideal for grilling seafood. The stainless-steel burners allow precise temperature control, ensuring perfectly cooked lobster tails.

    Get yours here

    Best Side Dishes for Grilled Lobster Tail

    No seafood BBQ is complete without incredible side dishes. Here are some of my favorites:

  • Grilled Corn on the Cob – Slathered in butter and sprinkled with Old Bay.

  • Garlic Butter Asparagus – Light, fresh, and pairs beautifully with lobster.

  • Baked Potatoes – Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and the perfect base for a seafood feast.

  • Lemon Herb Rice – A light, citrusy side that balances the richness of the lobster.

    Product Recommendation: Cast Iron Grill Pan for Indoor Grilling

    Product: Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan

    Why You Need It: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, this cast iron grill pan gives your seafood that perfect charred texture and smoky flavor right on your stovetop.

    Get yours here

    Final Tips for the Best Grilled Lobster Tails

    1. Don’t overcook! Lobster meat turns rubbery if left on the grill too long.

    2. Use fresh herbs and real butter for maximum flavor.

    Try This Recipe & Share Your Experience!

    Now that you have the ultimate grilled lobster tail recipe bbq guide, it’s time to fire up the grill and impress your guests. Have you tried this recipe? Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out!

    Happy grilling!

    • Comments

    Post a Comment

    Popular posts from this blog

    Mexican Flank Steak Marinade

    How to Make the Best Mexican Flank Steak Marinade (With a Chef’s Tip!) There’s something truly magical about a well-marinated steak sizzling on the grill, filling the air with rich, smoky aromas. I still remember my first experience with authentic Mexican Flank Steak Marinade. It was on a trip to Mexico, where I stumbled upon a tiny street food stand in Mexico City. The chef behind the grill had been marinating the steak since the morning, and when I finally took a bite of the juicy, flavorful carne asada taco, I knew I had to learn how to recreate it at home. Since then, I’ve tested countless recipes, fine-tuned the flavors, and even picked up a chef’s trick that makes the steak extra tender. In this post, I’ll share my best homemade Mexican Flank Steak Marinade with exact measurements, quick and easy tips, and product recommendations to elevate your cooking. Whether you're making taco meat, carne asada, or just wondering what to have for dinner, this marinade will become y...
    Post a Comment
    Read more

    Shrimp Boil Recipe Stovetop

    This One-Pot Stovetop Shrimp Boil Will Be Your New Go-To Recipe! There’s nothing quite like a classic shrimp boil—the bold flavors of juicy shrimp, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and smoky sausage all cooked together in a spicy, buttery broth. Traditionally, shrimp boils are cooked outdoors in huge pots, making them a summer staple. But what if I told you that you can achieve the same delicious taste at home with a one-pot stovetop shrimp boil? Yes, it’s totally doable, and I’m here to show you how! I first made this stovetop shrimp boil on a chilly evening when I was craving seafood but had no interest in standing outside over a giant boiling pot. After some trial and error, I found the perfect balance of Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, and a rich butter sauce to make this dish just as flavorful as the traditional version. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and budget-friendly—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cos...
    Post a Comment
    Read more

    Vision Board Ideas

    Vision Board Ideas That Actually Work: Transform Your Goals into Reality When I first learned about vision boards, I was skeptical. Could pinning some pictures on a board really help manifest dreams into reality? But then I tried it, and something magical happened. My goals became clearer, my actions more focused, and little by little, I began ticking off dreams that once felt far away. Writing this blog post feels deeply personal because I’m sharing tools that changed my life. If you’re looking for inspiration and practical steps to create a vision board that actually works, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore what vision boards are, why they work, and how to design one tailored to your goals. Along the way, I’ll share a few book recommendations to help deepen your journey. This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more. What is a Vision Board, and Why Does It Work? A vision b...
    Post a Comment
    Read more