Best Way To Cook Frozen Lobster Tails In The Oven
There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh lobster, but sometimes it's not possible to get it fresh. In that case, frozen lobster tails can be a great alternative. While there are many ways to prepare lobster tails – boiling, grilling, and steaming, to name a few – cooking them in the oven is one of the easiest and most foolproof methods. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you cook the perfect lobster tails in the oven.
Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce frozen lobster tails
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Thaw the Lobster Tails
Before you can cook the lobster tails, you'll need to thaw them. Place the frozen lobster tails in the refrigerator at least 24 hours before you plan to cook them. If you're in a hurry, you can also thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and immersing them in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425° F (218° C).
Step 3: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise down the middle, stopping just before the tail. Be careful not to cut into the meat. Using your fingers, gently lift the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Place the meat on top of the shell and brush it generously with melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Bake in the Oven
Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Variations
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
To add some extra flavor to your lobster tails, mix 3 cloves of minced garlic with the melted butter before brushing it on the lobster meat. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, on top before baking.
Stuffed Lobster Tails
If you want to get creative, you can stuff the lobster tails with a variety of fillings. Some popular options include bread crumbs, herbs, and cheese. To do this, cut a slit down the center of the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff the filling of your choice inside, brush the meat with butter, and bake as directed.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen lobster tails in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy. Whether you opt for the classic preparation or try one of the variations above, your lobster tails are sure to turn out perfectly every time. So go ahead and treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal that's sure to impress!