Looking to impress your guests with a dish that screams coastal elegance and spice? This Grilled Cajun Lobster Tails with Butter Dip recipe delivers just that—succulent lobster meat grilled to perfection and infused with bold Cajun flavors. It’s the ultimate backyard showstopper, merging gourmet seafood flair with the smoky charm of grilling. Whether it’s for a summer soirée or a special dinner night, this recipe guarantees satisfaction bite after buttery bite.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails, shells split and meat lifted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- For the Butter Dip:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- Dash of Cajun seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Those Lobster Beauties
- Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail without cutting through the meat.
- Gently lift the meat above the shell while keeping it attached at the base. This creates a beautiful butterfly presentation.
- Brush the exposed meat with olive oil and season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step 2: Fire Up the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F).
- Place the lobster tails meat-side up on the grill grates and close the lid.
- Grill for 5–7 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, slightly firm to the touch, and shows light grill marks.
Step 3: Butter Dip Magic
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
- Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. For extra heat, stir in a dash of Cajun seasoning.
- Let the butter simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Plate & Garnish With Flair
- Transfer the grilled lobster tails to a serving platter.
- Either drizzle with the warm garlic butter or serve the dip on the side for interactive enjoyment.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the lobster before grilling for a cheesy twist.
- Use a honey-garlic glaze instead of Cajun spice for a sweet-savory flavor.
- Swap Cajun seasoning for Old Bay for a milder, more traditional seafood profile.
- Turn the butter dip into a cream-based sauce by adding a splash of heavy cream and reducing it.
Cooking Note
- Always ensure your lobster tails are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer if needed—lobster is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Watch carefully—overcooked lobster becomes tough and rubbery quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these bold grilled Cajun lobster tails with a side of charred corn on the cob, buttery jasmine rice, or a fresh arugula salad. They also shine alongside grilled pineapple or chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a surf-and-turf feast, serve with grilled steak medallions.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover lobster meat should be removed from the shell and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a bit of butter. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat. You can also prep the seasoned lobster tails a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories:~390
Protein: ~34g
Sodium: ~480mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe lighter, swap butter for olive oil in the dip and reduce the amount slightly. You can also use a salt-free Cajun seasoning blend or make your own to control sodium levels. Steaming the lobster instead of grilling reduces fat while preserving moisture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the lobster—always monitor grill time and texture to avoid rubbery results.
- Not prepping the shell properly—this affects presentation and even cooking.
- Skipping the butter dip—it adds richness and enhances every bite.
- Using too much seasoning—bold flavors are great, but overdoing it can mask the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Conclusion
Grilled Cajun Lobster Tails with Butter Dip is your go-to for an unforgettable seafood experience at home. Smoky, spicy, buttery, and deliciously rich—this dish makes seafood nights special. Try it for your next grill-out and wow everyone with your skills!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails?
A: Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Q2: What’s the best way to split lobster tails?
A: Use sharp kitchen shears to cut down the top shell, being careful not to cut into the meat.
Q3: Can I bake instead of grill?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, or until opaque and firm.
Q4: How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
A: It varies by brand, but it typically has a medium level of heat. Adjust quantity to your spice preference.
Grilled Cajun Lobster Tails with Butter Dip
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A bold, spicy seafood recipe where succulent lobster tails are grilled and paired with rich garlic butter for dipping.
Ingredients
4 lobster tails, shells split and meat lifted
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Butter Dip:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Dash of Cajun seasoning (optional)
Instructions
1. Carefully cut down the top shell and lift the meat above while keeping it attached.
2. Brush with olive oil and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F).
4. Place lobster tails meat-side up and grill for 5–7 minutes until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Melt butter in a small saucepan with garlic, lemon juice, and salt; simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Drizzle garlic butter over grilled lobster or serve on the side; garnish with chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately with grilled vegetables or buttery rice.
Notes
Use thawed lobster tails for even cooking.
Do not overcook—lobster becomes rubbery quickly.
You can prepare the seasoned tails in advance for easy grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lobster tail
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: grilled cajun lobster tails, lobster with butter dip