Back in the day, this was my absolute favorite. I’d always nag my mom to whip it up.

Cowboy butter lobster tails are a delicious twist on traditional lobster, infusing rich, buttery flavors with a hint of Western flair. This dish originates from the bold flavors of cowboy cuisine that typically includes hearty and robust ingredients. Combining fresh lobster tails with a zesty, herby cowboy butter sauce, this recipe offers a tantalizing surf-and-turf experience right from your kitchen. Perfect for a special occasion or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, cowboy butter lobster tails promise to elevate your dining experience with minimal effort.

These buttery lobster tails pair beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes or a light, citrusy salad to complement the rich sauce. Grilled asparagus or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts can also add a lovely touch of green and a bit of crunch. For a truly decadent meal, consider serving with a side of truffle fries and a glass of crisp white wine or a light, bubbly champagne.

Servings: 4 servings

4 lobster tails
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail, from the base to the tip. Gently pry the shells open and lift the lobster meat, then place it on top of the shells. This will make for a beautiful presentation.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the cowboy butter.

Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and generously brush each tail with the cowboy butter mixture.

Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.

Serve immediately with the remaining cowboy butter sauce for dipping.

For a spicier kick, add a bit more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cowboy butter mixture. If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked sea salt. To make this dish even more luxurious, drizzle a bit of melted garlic herb butter over the lobster tails just before serving. You can also try grilling the lobster tails instead of baking for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.