Air Fryer Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter by Tracy – Elegant, Easy & Delicious!

Take your dinner to the next level with Air Fryer Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter – a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that’s ready in under 10 minutes. Juicy, tender lobster meat basted in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon and paprika, all air-fried to perfection — this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home without the fuss.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes

• Total Time: ~15–18 minutes

• Servings: 2 lobster tails (1–2 servings)

• Method: Air Fryer

  • Set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).

  • Air fry for 6–8 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your lobster tails.

    • Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along the top of the lobster shell lengthwise (starting from the wide end to just before the tail fin).

    • Gently pull the shell apart and lift the lobster meat upward, resting it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.

      Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

      Ingredients

      • 2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)

      • 4 tablespoons butter, melted

      • 2 cloves garlic, minced

      • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

      • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

      • Salt and pepper, to taste

      • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

       Step-by-Step Instructions

      Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

      This gives it that classic “butterflied” presentation seen in restaurants.

    Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

    • In a small bowl, combine:

      • 4 tbsp melted butter

      • 2 cloves garlic, minced

      • 1 tbsp lemon juice

      • 1/4 tsp paprika

      • Salt and pepper to taste

    • Whisk everything together until well mixed.

    Step 3: Baste the Lobster Tails

    • Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat.

    • Try to get some of the butter under the meat and inside the shell for added flavor.

    Step 4: Air Fry the Lobster

    • Place the lobster tails into the air fryer basket, shell side down.

    • Ensure they are not overlapping to allow even cooking.

    Step 5: Cooking Time

    Tip: Keep an eye on them after the 6-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

• Step 6: Check for Doneness

  • The lobster meat should be opaque and white, and firm to the touch.

  • The internal temperature should read 140°F (60°C) using a meat thermometer.

  Step 7: Rest and Garnish

  • Remove the lobster tails from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes to lock in moisture.

  • Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

  Step 8: Serve Immediately

  • Serve alongside steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

  • Optional: Add a lemon wedge or extra melted butter on the side for dipping.

   Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  •  Ready in under 15 minutes

  •  Gourmet seafood made easy

  •  Perfectly tender lobster every time

  •  Minimal cleanup with air fryer cooking

  •  Elegant enough for holidays, dates, or special occasions

   Tips & Variations

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the garlic butter.

  • Add Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before air frying for a rich finish.

  • Frozen Lobster Tails?: Thaw overnight in the fridge or place in a sealed bag in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking.

  • Extra Flavor: Try adding a splash of white wine to the butter mixture for a gourmet twist.

   Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

  • Reheat gently in the air fryer at 320°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts with extra butter to prevent drying.

   Final Thoughts

  This Air Fryer Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter by Tracy is a quick, luxurious way to enjoy lobster at home. Whether you’re making a romantic dinner or elevating a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers rich flavor, tender meat, and minimal effort.

enjoy!