Steamed lobster tails are elegant, tender, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood dinner in less than 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The steaming method keeps the lobster moist and tender.

It’s a quick recipe that feels luxurious without requiring complicated steps.

Butterflying the tails makes for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Fresh lobster tails are the star—steaming keeps their flavor clean and natural.

Salted water helps season the lobster as it steams.

Fresh lemon wedges add brightness that balances the richness.

Melted butter is the perfect dipping sauce for indulgence.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Butterfly the lobster tails properly so the meat sits neatly on top for even cooking.

Don’t overcook—lobster cooks quickly, and the flesh should be opaque white and tender.

Plan on about 1 minute of steaming per ounce of lobster tail.

How to Make Steamed Lobster Tail

Step 1 – Prep the lobster

Use kitchen shears to cut through the shell in a straight line.

Pull the meat out and rest it on top of the shell, still attached at the tail.

Step 2 – Prepare the steamer

Fill a large pot with 1–2 inches of salted water.

Place a steamer basket inside and bring the water to a boil.

Step 3 – Steam the lobster

Place the lobster tails in the steamer basket, cover, and cook 6–8 minutes until the shells turn bright red and the meat is firm and white.

Step 4 – Serve

Transfer the lobster tails to a platter and serve hot with lemon wedges and melted butter.

What to Serve Them With

Steamed lobster tails pair beautifully with garlic butter pasta.

Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for balance.

Add baked potatoes or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Variations / Substitutions

Sprinkle paprika or garlic powder over the lobster before steaming for added flavor.

Swap melted butter for garlic-herb butter or hollandaise sauce.

Add white wine to the steaming water for a more aromatic flavor.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover lobster in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently by steaming for 2 minutes or warming in butter.

Use leftovers in lobster rolls, pasta, or seafood salads.

FAQs

Can I steam frozen lobster tails?
Yes, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

How do I know when lobster is done?
The flesh should be opaque white and firm, with shells bright red.

Can I use this method for whole lobster?
Yes, but adjust steaming time depending on the lobster’s weight.

What’s the best way to cut the lobster shell?
Use sharp kitchen shears and cut in a straight line down the top.

Do I need a steamer basket?
It’s recommended, but you can use a metal colander inside a large pot.

Final Thoughts

Steamed lobster tails are elegant, simple, and impressive.

With fresh lemon and melted butter, this dish is both luxurious and effortless.