Name: Spicy Cajun Garlic Lobster
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 4 lobster tails (about 4–5 oz each), split in half lengthwise; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges, for serving

Buttery, garlicky lobster with a bold Cajun kick—this Spicy Cajun Garlic Lobster recipe makes a rich and flavorful seafood dish that feels luxurious but is easy enough to prepare at home. I love how it turns an ordinary night into something that feels like a celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it combines the sweetness of lobster with the bold, smoky spice of Cajun seasoning. The garlic butter adds richness while the lemon juice brightens everything up. It’s a quick dish to prepare, but it looks and tastes like something I’d order at a high-end seafood restaurant. I also love that I can easily adjust the spice level to my liking by adding or leaving out the cayenne.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 lobster tails (about 4–5 oz each), split in half lengthwise

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

3 tablespoons olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and lemon juice.

Place the lobster tails flesh-side up on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the Cajun garlic butter mixture.

Roast for 10–12 minutes, until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly golden on top. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking takes 12 minutes, and the total time is 22 minutes. Each serving contains around 280 calories.

Variations

I sometimes swap lobster tails for jumbo shrimp or scallops for a slightly different take.

For a smoky flavor, I like grilling the lobster instead of roasting it.

I add a splash of white wine to the butter mixture when I want extra depth.

If I want a creamier finish, I whisk in a tablespoon of heavy cream to the garlic butter.

For a lighter version, I reduce the butter slightly and increase the lemon juice.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I prefer steaming or gently warming in the oven at a low temperature so the lobster doesn’t dry out. I avoid microwaving because it tends to make the lobster rubbery.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Lobster Bisque

FAQs

How do I know when lobster tails are fully cooked?

I look for the meat to turn opaque and firm. An instant-read thermometer should register 140°F (60°C) in the thickest part.

Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of the oven?

Yes, I often grill lobster tails over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes, brushing with the Cajun garlic butter as they cook.

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Absolutely. I just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What can I serve with Cajun garlic lobster?

I usually pair it with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. Rice or pasta with a bit of olive oil and herbs also works well.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is moderate from the Cajun seasoning. If I want it extra spicy, I add cayenne; if I prefer it milder, I leave the cayenne out.

Conclusion

I find this spicy Cajun garlic lobster to be the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of butter, garlic, spice, and lemon is one I always crave, and I know I’ll keep coming back to this recipe.

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