Name: Black Garlic Butter Lobster Tail with Thyme Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lobster tails, thawed if frozen; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 2–3 black garlic cloves, mashed into a paste; 1 clove fresh garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for glaze); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes; Lemon wedges, for serving

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This Black Garlic Butter Lobster Tail with Thyme Glaze is my idea of an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal made right at home. Sweet, tender lobster meat is brushed with a rich, umami-packed black garlic butter, roasted or broiled to perfection, and finished with a glossy thyme glaze that adds a fresh, herbaceous note. It’s luxurious without being complicated—and perfect for when I want to impress.

Black Garlic Butter Lobster Tail with Thyme Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it delivers deep, bold flavors without a long ingredient list. The black garlic brings a subtle sweetness and earthy richness that pairs beautifully with buttery lobster. The thyme glaze adds brightness and balance, keeping everything fresh and layered. It looks impressive on the plate, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether I’m cooking for a date night, special occasion, or just treating myself, this recipe always feels like a celebration.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lobster tails, thawed if frozen
Unsalted butter, softened
Black garlic cloves (store-bought or homemade), mashed into a paste
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh thyme leaves
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: smoked paprika or chili flakes for a touch of heat
Lemon wedges, for serving

directions

I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or set the broiler to high, depending on how I want to cook the lobster.
I butterfly the lobster tails by cutting down the top of the shell with kitchen scissors and gently pulling the meat upward to rest on top of the shell.
In a small bowl, I mix the softened butter with mashed black garlic, fresh garlic, thyme, a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
I spread or brush the black garlic butter generously over the exposed lobster meat.
I place the lobster tails on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast for 10–12 minutes, or broil for 6–8 minutes, until the meat is opaque and slightly golden on top.
While the lobster bakes, I quickly simmer a little butter, more fresh thyme, and lemon juice in a small saucepan to make the thyme glaze.
I remove the lobster from the oven and spoon the warm thyme glaze over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 lobster tails (2 servings).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 20–25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I finish the lobster with a splash of white wine in the pan or add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before broiling for a cheesy crust. I’ve also made this recipe with scallops or shrimp using the same black garlic butter and thyme glaze—it works beautifully. If I want a smoky touch, I add a pinch of chipotle powder to the butter.

storage/reheating

I rarely have leftovers, but if I do, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the lobster tails in a covered baking dish with a splash of broth or butter and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. I avoid microwaving to keep the texture tender.

FAQs

What is black garlic and where do I find it?

Black garlic is fermented garlic with a deep, sweet-savory flavor. It’s soft, earthy, and full of umami. I usually find it in specialty grocery stores, Asian markets, or online.

Can I use regular garlic instead?

You can, but I recommend combining it with a bit of honey or balsamic reduction to mimic the sweet richness of black garlic.

What sides go well with this dish?

I usually serve it with lemon butter asparagus, herbed rice, or a light arugula salad. It also pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes—I mix the garlic butter and prepare the lobster shells ahead of time, then bake or broil right before serving. The thyme glaze also comes together in just a few minutes.

Can I grill the lobster instead of baking?

Absolutely. I brush the tails with black garlic butter and grill them shell-side down over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, finishing with the thyme glaze off the heat.

Conclusion

This Black Garlic Butter Lobster Tail with Thyme Glaze is one of those recipes that feels extravagant but is surprisingly easy to make. The rich, complex flavors from the black garlic and the fresh lift from thyme take lobster to the next level. Whether I’m serving it for a holiday dinner, romantic night in, or just because—I know this dish is going to impress.