If you’ve ever wanted to impress someone with a fancy yet totally doable seafood dish, then look no further than these Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails. Imagine perfectly tender lobster meat, lightly seasoned, and stuffed with a rich, buttery breadcrumb filling. When you bake these beauties, the lobster soaks up all the decadent flavors, and the result is a dish that feels ultra-luxurious without being complicated to make. Trust me—once you make these, you’ll feel like a seafood pro, and you’ll be turning heads at the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails
These stuffed lobster tails are everything you want in a seafood dish—fancy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy. Here’s why they’ll become a showstopper in your kitchen:
Elegant Yet Easy
This recipe might sound fancy, but it’s incredibly simple to pull off. With a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. You won’t believe how easy it is to make something so elegant.
Perfect for Special Occasions
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a romantic dinner, or just treating yourself to something special, this gourmet baked lobster tail will make any occasion feel extra special.
Flavor-Packed
The stuffed filling of buttery breadcrumbs, garlic, and fresh herbs complements the sweet, tender lobster perfectly. Add a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got a dish bursting with fresh, zesty flavors.
Impressive Presentation
When you pull these lobster tails out of the oven, you’ll get the wow factor. They look stunning on the plate and instantly elevate any meal. The best part? They taste just as good as they look!
Ingredients
Making gourmet lobster tails is easier than you think with these simple, high-quality ingredients. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:
Lobster Tails
These are the star of the dish, so choose large, fresh lobster tails for the best flavor. The meat should be sweet and tender when cooked properly.
Unsalted Butter
Buttery richness is key in this recipe, so you’ll want to use plenty of unsalted butter to create the perfect stuffed filling.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs give the stuffing a light, crispy texture that’s a delicious contrast to the tender lobster meat.
Garlic
Fresh garlic, minced, will infuse the stuffing with that savory, aromatic punch. It’s the kind of ingredient that makes everything just a little bit more indulgent.
Fresh Herbs
Parsley and thyme are the classic choices here, giving the stuffing a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the butter.
Lemon Juice
A fresh squeeze of lemon juice adds a tangy brightness that elevates the dish and complements the lobster.
Parmesan Cheese
For that savory, umami flavor that adds a little depth to the stuffing. Freshly grated is best!
Paprika
A pinch of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the dish.
Salt and Pepper
For seasoning, to taste.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to make these Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails. With a little prep and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s worthy of a standing ovation.
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want it nice and hot to cook the lobster tails to perfection.
Prepare the Lobster Tails
Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the lobster shell, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat, being careful not to remove it completely from the shell. Using your fingers or a spoon, gently lift the lobster meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Rest the lobster meat on top of the shell.
Make the Stuffing
In a small bowl, melt the butter. Add in the garlic, parsley, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Then, add the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and paprika. Mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter mixture.
Stuff the Lobster Tails
Spoon the stuffing mixture generously onto the lobster meat, pressing it down gently to secure it in place. You want a nice, heaping mound of the delicious stuffing. Don’t be shy!
Bake the Lobster Tails
Place the stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 140°F). The stuffing should be golden brown and crispy on top.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your lobster tails are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top, and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, buttery goodness!
Nutrition Facts
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How to Serve Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails
These lobster tails are the perfect dish for any occasion, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal even more:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the tender lobster. Plus, they soak up all the delicious juices from the lobster and stuffing.
Roasted Asparagus
The crisp, slightly charred asparagus adds a refreshing crunch and a lightness to balance the richness of the lobster tails.
Fresh Salad
A simple, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will provide a nice contrast to the indulgence of the lobster.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled zucchini, squash, and bell peppers are an excellent option to pair with lobster, adding a smoky flavor and vibrant color to your plate.
Crusty Bread
Serve with a loaf of crusty French bread to soak up all the delicious butter and juices from the lobster and stuffing.
Additional Tips
Thaw Frozen Lobster Tails Properly
If you’re using frozen lobster tails, make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Avoid thawing them in the microwave, as that can affect the quality of the meat.
Make the Stuffing Your Own
Feel free to add your own twist to the stuffing! You can mix in some crab meat, chopped shrimp, or even a bit of lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time
Lobster cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Once the meat is opaque and the stuffing is golden brown, it’s ready to serve.
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, herbs, and lobster. Fresh ingredients will really make this dish shine.
Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the lobster tails in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the texture and flavor.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails?
A1: Yes! Frozen lobster tails work perfectly fine. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Q2: How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked?
A2: The lobster should be opaque and firm to the touch. If you’re using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 140°F.
Q3: Can I make the stuffing in advance?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the lobster tails and bake when you’re ready.
Q4: What should I serve with the lobster tails?
A4: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are all great sides to serve with these gourmet lobster tails.
Q5: How can I add more flavor to the stuffing?
A5: Try adding a bit of white wine, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped fresh herbs like tarragon or basil for an extra flavor boost.
Q6: Can I use a different cheese for the stuffing?
A6: Absolutely! While parmesan is classic, you can use other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different twist.
Q7: Can I make these lobster tails on the grill?
A7: Yes! Grill the lobster tails on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, basting with butter, and then stuff them once they’re partially cooked. Continue grilling until done.
Q8: Can I use a different kind of seafood?
A8: Yes! You can use shrimp or scallops instead of lobster if you prefer.
Q9: How do I reheat leftover lobster tails?
A9: To reheat, cover the lobster tails with foil and bake in the oven at 300°F for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Q10: Can I make these lobster tails ahead of time?
A10: It’s best to cook them fresh, but you can prep the lobster and stuffing ahead of time and assemble everything just before baking.
Conclusion
These Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails are the kind of dish that’ll have everyone talking. With buttery, garlicky stuffing and perfectly cooked lobster, it’s a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to make you feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant. Enjoy!
PrintGourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these luxurious Gourmet Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails, filled with a rich, buttery stuffing that elevates the flavor of fresh lobster meat. This easy-to-make yet impressive dish is perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails (5–6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, carefully cut down the top of the lobster tails, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat out and rest it on top of the shell, making sure it stays connected at the base.
- Make the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Stuff the Lobster Tails: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously onto the lobster meat, packing it in lightly. Sprinkle with a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for an extra flavor kick, if desired.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the gourmet stuffed lobster tails with lemon wedges and a side of your favorite vegetables or rice.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the lobster. The meat should be firm but tender and opaque.
- If you prefer a spicier stuffing, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.
- For an even more luxurious touch, you can drizzle the lobster tails with extra melted butter before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed lobster tail
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 125mg