Transform your kitchen into a gourmet haven with this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail and Scallops recipe. Imagine tender, buttery lobster tails paired with golden-seared scallops, all drizzled in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s the kind of dish that screams elegance but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a bit of indulgence.

Let’s dive into this luxurious seafood masterpiece!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

  • Effortlessly Elegant: You’ll impress anyone (yourself included) with this fancy dish that takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory touch to the sweet, succulent seafood.
  • Versatile and Indulgent: Whether it’s a celebration dinner or a treat-yourself night, this recipe works beautifully for any occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this decadent dish:

For the Lobster Tails:

  • 2 lobster tails (about 6 oz each)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Scallops:

  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish and Serving:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Lobster Tails

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

To butterfly the lobster tails, use kitchen scissors to cut down the top shell lengthwise. Gently loosen the meat from the shell and lift it to rest on top, keeping it attached at the base. This creates that classic lobster tail presentation you’d see in a high-end restaurant.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Melted butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Paprika
  • Lemon juice

Whisk it all together until well blended. This golden, aromatic mixture will elevate both the lobster and scallops.

Generously brush the garlic butter over the lobster meat, ensuring every crevice is coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Lobster Tails

Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the meat is opaque, tender, and cooked through. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Step 4: Prep the Scallops

While the lobster is baking, it’s time to prepare the scallops.

Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden sear.

Season both sides of the scallops with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Sear the Scallops

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook them for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside but tender on the inside.

In the last minute of cooking, drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the scallops. Watch as the butter sizzles, coating the scallops with extra flavor.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Arrange the baked lobster tails and seared scallops on a plate or serving platter.

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

(Pro tip: A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is the perfect pairing for this dish.)

Serving Suggestions

Complete this indulgent meal with:

  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect side to soak up all that delicious garlic butter.
  • Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich seafood.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for added texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Lobster and Scallops

  • Dry Your Scallops: Patting them dry before searing is key to achieving that beautiful golden crust.
  • Watch the Lobster: Lobster tails cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
  • Use High-Quality Butter: A good-quality butter makes all the difference in the richness and flavor of your sauce.
  • Skip the Shell Hassle: Many seafood markets will butterfly your lobster tails for you if you ask!

What Makes This Dish Special

The combination of sweet lobster, tender scallops, and the buttery garlic sauce creates a symphony of flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s a dish that’s easy enough to make at home but fancy enough to rival any fine dining experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the lobster tails and scallops completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.

2. What’s the best way to thaw seafood?
Thaw lobster tails and scallops overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option.

3. Can I grill instead of bake or sear?
Absolutely! Grilled lobster tails and scallops add a smoky depth to the dish. Simply brush with garlic butter and grill until cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Lobster Tail and Scallops recipe is a true celebration of seafood. It’s luxurious, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share the table with you.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a treat-yourself moment, this dish will make you feel like a culinary rock star.

Grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and get ready to wow with this elegant and mouthwatering recipe. Don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of wine—you deserve it! 🍷✨

Happy cooking! 🦞🍽️