Air Fryer Lobster Tails (Printable)

Tender lobster tails air fried to perfection with garlic butter sauce

# 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

# How-To Steps:

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 (193°C) 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/60°C).
06 - Remove lobster tails and drizzle with remaining butter sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The air fryer creates that perfect tender-crisp texture without any guesswork or anxiety
  • You will feel like you are dining at a high-end seafood restaurant for a fraction of the cost
02 -
  • Overcooking happens fast, so I always check at the 6-minute mark even if it looks slightly underdone
  • Butterflied tails cook more evenly and look much more impressive on the plate
03 -
  • Let your lobster tails thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight for the most even cooking
  • A meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out of knowing when they are perfectly done

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