How to Grill Lobster Tails: Step-by-Step Guide & Recipes

Grilled lobster tails on BBQ grates with golden char and butter glaze.

The Complete Guide to Grilling Lobster Tails: Master Flavor and Timing with Ease

Alternate Title: Mastering the Grill: How to BBQ Lobster Tails for Flavor and Elegance

Wondering how to grill lobster tails to perfection? Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard griller trying something new, lobster tails offer a luxurious, sweet, and tender protein that grills beautifully when done right. In this guide, we'll answer every question you might have—from how long to grill lobster tails, to how to prep lobster tails for grill, and the best way to grill lobster tails over gas, charcoal, or open flame.

Jump Links

How to Prep Lobster Tails for the Grill
Best Ways to Grill Lobster Tails
How Long to Grill Lobster Tails
Grilled Lobster Tail Recipes and Seasoning Tips
Best Sides and Drinks to Serve with Grilled Lobster
FAQs About Grilling Lobster Tails
Conclusion

How to Prep Lobster Tails for the Grill

Before you even light your grill, how to prep lobster tails for grill is key. Start with fully thawed lobster tails—either fresh or frozen. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator or place them in cold water for 30–60 minutes.

Using frozen lobster tails can compromise both texture and flavor. When lobster is frozen when put on the grill it can lead to a mushy or rubbery texture once cooked. For the best results on the grill, always start with fresh or properly thawed lobster tails to ensure a tender bite and full flavor experience.

Grilled Lobster tails. Shop DDR BBQ Supply for Seafood seasonings and glazes for grilling or cooking fish, shrimp, and lobster with bold coastal flavor.

Butterfly the Tails

Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell down to the tail fan, but don’t cut through the bottom shell or meat. Gently pull the shell apart and lift the meat to rest it on top. This method helps the lobster cook evenly and looks fantastic for presentation.

Find our favorite kitchen shears HERE.

Seasoning Tips

Brush with melted butter, olive oil, or a marinade. Add garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and salt for a classic flavor. You can also use seafood rubs from DDR BBQ Supply to boost flavor effortlessly. If you're prepping multiple tails, use a baking tray and prep in batches so you maintain consistency across the cook.

Best Ways to Grill Lobster Tails

There are plenty of techniques when it comes to how do you grill lobster tails. Let’s break it down by grill type:

How to Grill Lobster Tails on a Gas Grill

Preheat to 400–450°F.
Oil the grates.
Grill meat-side down for 4–5 minutes.
Flip and grill shell-side down for 3–5 more minutes while basting with butter.

Grilling lobster tails on a gas grill offers control and consistency. Use a thermometer to track internal temp and close the lid during the second half of cooking to trap heat and moisture. Avoid overcooking—the meat should pull away from the shell easily and remain moist, not rubbery.

How to Grill Lobster Tails on a Charcoal Grill

Set up for direct heat over hot coals.
Grill meat-side down then flip, same as above.
Add wood chips for smoky flavor.

Charcoal grills impart a smokier flavor. Hickory, oak, or fruitwood chunks pair nicely with lobster's delicate sweetness. Be sure to manage flare-ups from butter drips by placing the tails slightly off-center from the hottest coals.

How to BBQ Lobster Tails Without a Grate

Use a cast iron pan or grill basket to keep smaller tails from falling through. This method is ideal for how to grill small lobster tails or split tails. Cast iron also helps conduct and retain heat more evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking.

How Long to Grill Lobster Tails

People often ask: how long to grill lobster tail or how long to cook lobster tail on grill? Here’s a general guideline:

4 oz lobster tails: Grill 5–6 minutes (2–3 minutes per side).
6–8 oz tails: Grill 8–10 minutes total.
10 oz+ tails: Grill 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For how long to grill lobster tails on gas grill, the times above apply. Always check the internal temp—135°F to 140°F is perfect. Meat should be opaque and firm. Avoid the mistake of cutting into the tail to check doneness—this releases the juices. Use a probe thermometer for accuracy. For a richer flavor, baste every 2–3 minutes with garlic butter or herb oil.

Grilled Lobster Tail Recipes and Seasoning Tips

Lemon Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Melt butter with garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
Baste lobster tails before and after flipping on the grill.
A little bit of Seafood Seasoning before serving provides a bit of extra flavor.

This classic combo never fails. Serve with grilled asparagus, toasted baguette, and a glass of Chardonnay.

Spicy Cajun Grilled Lobster Tails

Use Cajun or Creole seasoning for bold flavor.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
Find our favorite Cajun seasoning HERE.

Perfect for spice lovers. Try pairing it with grilled corn and a creamy slaw to balance the heat.

BBQ Lobster Tails with Honey Glaze

Use one of BBQ glazes that pair well with lobster.
Baste liberally while grilling for caramelized flavor.

This sweet-savory approach works great for special occasions. Serve over jasmine rice or a grilled pineapple salsa.

Best Sides and Drinks to Serve with Grilled Lobster

To complement your grilled lobster tails, choose sides that enhance the delicate meat without overpowering it. Here are a few of our top picks:

Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers add texture and smoky flavor.
Lemon Herb Rice: A light citrus rice balances the richness of lobster tail recipes on the grill.
Garlic Bread or Baguette: Great for soaking up buttery sauces.
Corn on the Cob: Classic BBQ side—smear with herbed butter and sprinkle with smoked paprika.

Drinks

White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay.
Craft Beer: Wheat beer or pale ale pairs well without overpowering.
Mocktails: Sparkling lemonade or cucumber mint water.

FAQs About Grilling Lobster Tails

Can you grill lobster tails?

Yes—grilled lobster tails offer unbeatable texture and smoky flavor.

How long do you grill lobster tails?

Depending on size: 5–12 minutes total. Use a thermometer to confirm doneness.

How do I grill lobster tails?

Butterfly, season, and grill meat-side down first. Flip, baste, and finish cooking.

What’s the best way to grill a lobster tail?

High heat, simple seasoning, and careful timing on a gas or charcoal grill.

Can I grill lobster tails on a BBQ?

Absolutely. Charcoal or gas BBQs both work great.

How long should you grill lobster tails?

Anywhere from 5 to 12 minutes depending on tail size. Watch for 135°F internal temp.

How to grill lobster tails on the BBQ?

Use medium-high heat. Grill meat-side down then flip and baste to finish.

Conclusion

Grilling lobster tails is easier than you think—as long as you know how to cook lobster tails on grill and follow a few simple steps. From prepping and seasoning to knowing how long to grill a lobster tail, this guide gives you everything you need to serve up restaurant-quality results at home.

Need grilling tools, rubs, or sauces? Shop DDR BBQ Supply for everything from seafood seasonings to high-end grill accessories.

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