Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails is a decadent and flavorful seafood dish that brings a smoky and savory touch to your table. These lobster tails are grilled to perfection and smothered in a vibrant Cowboy Butter sauce. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this mouth-watering recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, for tangy flavor in the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami to the Cowboy Butter.
- Dijon mustard: Provides a slight tang and creamy texture.
- Lobster tails: 4, split in half lengthwise, for easy grilling.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted, forming the base of the sauce.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, adding aromatic flavor.
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a smoky and rich flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon, for a hint of heat.
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for freshness and color.
- Fresh chives: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for a light, onion-like flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the sauce.
- Lemon wedges: Served on the side for an extra zesty finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper to create the Cowboy Butter sauce.
- Step 3:
- Generously coat the split lobster tails with the prepared Cowboy Butter sauce, reserving some for later use.
- Step 4:
- Place the lobster tails flesh side down on the preheated grill and cook for 5-6 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Flip the lobster tails and continue grilling for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the lobster is cooked through and opaque.
- Step 6:
- Remove the grilled lobster tails from the heat and generously brush them with the remaining Cowboy Butter sauce.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture. Pair with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- If you have leftovers, store the lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the lobster from becoming tough.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of grilled lobster may change if frozen and reheated. However, the Cowboy Butter sauce can be made ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the Cowboy Butter.
- Feel free to use this Cowboy Butter sauce on other grilled seafood like shrimp or fish for a versatile flavor boost.
- If you don’t have access to a grill, the lobster tails can be cooked under the broiler in your oven for a similar effect.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay recommends brushing the lobster with extra butter halfway through grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests using fresh herbs whenever possible for a brighter flavor in the sauce.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay advises grilling the lobster flesh side down first to create a nice sear before finishing the cooking process with the shell side down.