Garlic Butter Air Fryer Lobster Tail
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat16gram
Protein24gram
Ingredients
- Lobster tail (fresh or thawed frozen)1 piece
- Unsalted butter2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves, minced2 cloves
- Lemon juice (fresh)1 tbsp
- Paprika0.25 tsp
- Saltto taste n/a
- Black pepperto taste n/a
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)1 tbsp
Enjoy a luxurious seafood meal with this easy-to-follow Garlic Butter Air Fryer Lobster Tail recipe. Perfect for beginners, it combines succulent lobster meat with rich garlic butter, all cooked quickly in your air fryer. This dish costs around $15-20, varies by location and lobster tail size, and provides approximately 250 calories per serving. It suits a low-carb, high-protein diet and is straightforward with a total time of under 30 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Prepare Lobster Tail
1Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top shell of the lobster tail lengthwise to expose the meat slightly. Gently lift the meat out and rest it on top of the shell for even cooking.
Make Garlic Butter
2In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Brush Lobster with Garlic Butter
3Brush the garlic butter generously over the exposed lobster meat and some on the shell.
Preheat Air Fryer
4Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cook Lobster Tail
5Place the lobster tail in the air fryer basket, meat side up. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the meat is opaque and firm to touch. The safe internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F). Use a food thermometer to check.
Serve and Garnish
6Carefully remove the lobster tail, brush with any remaining garlic butter, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Cooking Tips
-Make sure not to overcook lobster tail to keep it tender; it becomes rubbery if overdone.
-Use fresh lobster tails for the best flavor, but frozen can be used if fully thawed overnight in the refrigerator.
-To avoid cross-contamination, clean utensils and surfaces after handling raw lobster.
-If you don't have an air fryer, you can broil the lobster tail in an oven, but cooking time will vary.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Small bowl
- Kitchen scissors
- Food brush
- Food thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
Shopping List
- [ ] Lobster tail (approx. $12-$15): Choose fresh lobster tails that are firm and have a mild ocean scent.
- [ ] Unsalted butter (approx. $0.50 for required amount): Opt for fresh butter stored in the refrigerator.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (approx. $0.30): Look for tight, unblemished cloves.
- [ ] Lemon (approx. $0.50): Select firm lemons with bright skin.
- [ ] Paprika (approx. $0.20 for amount needed): Smoked paprika adds extra flavor.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional, approx. $0.50): Pick bunches with vibrant green leaves.
Total approximate cost: $14-$17
FAQ
How do I know when the lobster tail is fully cooked?
The lobster meat becomes opaque and firm. For safety, the internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F) using a food thermometer.
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Do I need to peel the lobster tail before cooking?
No, cutting the shell and lifting the meat onto the shell is sufficient; it cooks evenly and looks appealing.
Can I add other herbs to the garlic butter?
Yes, chopped thyme or dill pair well with lobster and can add extra flavor.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can broil the lobster tail in the oven at 190°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to avoid overcooking.