Air Fryer Lobster Tails (Printable Version)

Tender lobster tails with garlic butter, cooked in the air fryer for perfectly succulent results.

# What You'll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 2 lobster tails (5–6 oz each), thawed if frozen

→ Butter Sauce

02 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
08 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
09 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Using kitchen shears, cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the tail fin. Gently loosen the meat from the shell and lift it up to rest on top, leaving the end attached.
02 - Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
03 - In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
04 - Brush lobster meat generously with half of the butter sauce, ensuring even coverage.
05 - Place lobster tails in the air fryer basket, shell side down. Air fry for 6–8 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and slightly browned (internal temperature should reach 140°F).
06 - Remove lobster tails and drizzle with remaining butter sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Restaurant quality lobster in under 20 minutes without any fancy techniques
  • The air fryer creates this gorgeous golden top while keeping the meat incredibly tender
02 -
  • Dont skip the step of loosening the meat from the shell or itll steam instead of getting that gorgeous golden color on top
  • The lobster goes from perfect to overcooked incredibly fast, so check at 6 minutes even if you think it needs more time
03 -
  • If your lobster tails are frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator rather than using the cold water method, which can sometimes make the texture weirdly watery
  • Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter sauce if you like subtle heat that cuts through the richness

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