Quick & Juicy Air Fryer Lobster Tail
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs1gram
Fat13gram
Protein25gram
Ingredients
- Frozen lobster tails2 pieces
- Butter, melted (use unsalted for better control of salt)2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced (fresh for best flavor)1 clove
- Paprika0.5 tsp
- Saltto taste n/a
- Black pepper, freshly groundto taste n/a
- Lemon wedges (optional)2 pieces
This Quick & Juicy Air Fryer Lobster Tail recipe is a beginner-friendly, foolproof method to cook lobster tail in your air fryer, delivering tender and flavorful seafood in minutes. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for a special dinner or a weekend treat. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $10 (€9, £8, 850 INR) per serving. The recipe provides roughly 250 kcal per serving, high in protein and suitable for pescatarian and low-carb diets. It is rated easy in difficulty and takes about 30 minutes total, including preparation and cooking time.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the lobster tails
1If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place sealed in a cold water bath for 30 minutes until thawed. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell center, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently loosen the lobster meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the tail end, and lift above the shell. This tenderizes the meat and helps it cook evenly.
Make the garlic butter sauce
2In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well. This flavorful butter sauce will keep the lobster meat moist while cooking and add rich taste.
Preheat the air fryer and place lobster tails
3Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 3 minutes. Place the prepared lobster tails shell-side down in the air fryer basket. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter sauce.
Cook the lobster tails
4Cook the lobster tails at 200°C (400°F) for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on size. The lobster meat should be opaque and white with a slight curl. Insert a food-safe thermometer into the thickest part of the meat; it should read an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for safe consumption. Avoid overcooking to keep lobster tender.
Serve and enjoy
5Carefully remove the lobster tails from the air fryer. Brush with some more melted garlic butter if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the meat. Enjoy your effortless, delicious air fryer lobster tails!
Cooking Tips
-Always use a food thermometer to check internal temperature for safety and best texture.
-Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw seafood.
-If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice variation.
-For a fresh twist, add chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the butter sauce.
-Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Kitchen shears or sharp knife
- Small bowl
- Basting brush
- Food-safe cooking thermometer
- Tongs or spatula
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Frozen lobster tails (~$15 for 2 pieces) - Choose tails with firm shells and no off smell.
- [ ] Unsalted butter (~$3 per pack) - Opt for good quality butter for better flavor.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (~$0.50 per clove) - Look for firm, plump bulbs.
- [ ] Paprika (~$2 per jar) - Choose smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- [ ] Fresh lemons (~$1 each) - Pick firm, heavy lemons for juiciness.
- [ ] Black pepper (~$2 per grinder) - Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor.
Total approx cost: $21.50 (Note: Most spices and butter are pantry staples and the cost will be proportionally lower per recipe.)
FAQ
Can I cook frozen lobster tails directly in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw lobster tails before cooking for even cooking and best texture. Use cold water thawing or refrigerator overnight.
How do I know when the lobster tails are fully cooked?
The lobster meat should be opaque white with a slight curl. Use a food thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F).
Can I substitute garlic with garlic powder?
Yes, garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, but the flavor will be less intense and fresh.
How do I avoid overcooking the lobster tails?
Cook for the lower end of the recommended time and check for doneness early. Use a thermometer and remove lobster tails as soon as they reach 60°C (140°F) internally.