Herb Butter Grilled Lobster

Name: Herb Butter Grilled Lobster
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lobsters, live or pre-cooked; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes

I absolutely love making Herb Butter Grilled Lobster for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of fresh herbs and rich butter elevates the lobster's natural sweetness, creating a dish that's not just delicious but also incredibly impressive. Grilling the lobster adds a smoky depth that makes this dish unforgettable. With just a few ingredients and a simple method, I can transform a humble lobster into a gourmet experience that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:54:28.920Z

One memorable evening, I decided to treat friends to a seafood feast, and lobster was the star of the show. After testing various herb blends, I found that a simple mix of parsley, chives, and thyme really highlighted the lobster's flavor without overpowering it. It turned out to be a huge hit!

The secret was in the herb butter; I made sure to let it sit for a while, allowing the herbs to infuse fully into the butter. It not only added a lovely aroma but also made the lobster rich and succulent with each bite. I can't recommend this method enough!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicately flavored with fresh herbs and creamy butter
Perfect balance of smoky grilled taste and sweet lobster meat
Impressive dish that looks and tastes gourmet without being complicated

The Importance of Herb Butter

Herb butter is the star of this dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the lobster while adding depth with its rich, creamy texture. Using fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme not only offers vibrant flavor but also brightens the dish visually. When preparing the herb butter, be sure to incorporate the minced garlic thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavor throughout the lobster during grilling. The colored flecks of herbs in the butter create an appetizing presentation that elevates the entire dining experience.

For the best results, let your herb butter sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading it over the lobsters. This will make the butter easier to work with and ensure it melts beautifully onto the warm meat, creating an irresistible glaze. If you find that you have leftover herb butter, it can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for up to three months. Simply cut it into manageable portions and store it in an airtight container, ready for your next seafood dish.

Grilling Techniques for Lobster

When grilling lobsters, the approach you take can greatly impact the outcome. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, ideally around 400 to 450°F (200 to 230°C). Proper heating is crucial as it helps to achieve that perfect char on the lobster, enhancing the flavor profile. Cooking them shell side down allows the butter to seep into the meat and prevents the lobster from drying out. Additionally, keep an eye on the lobsters as they grill; you’re looking for a bright red shell and opaque white meat, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

It’s also important to baste the lobster halves with the herb butter frequently as they cook. This not only keeps the meat moist but also infuses it with the flavors of the herbs. If at any point you notice flare-ups from the butter drip, move the lobsters to a cooler part of the grill to avoid burning. If you're using pre-cooked lobsters, reduce the grilling time to 3-4 minutes, just enough to reheat while achieving those attractive grill marks.

Ingredients

For the Herb Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lobster

2 lobsters, live or pre-cooked
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Make the Herb Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, chives, thyme, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and refrigerate until firm.

Prepare the Lobsters

If using live lobsters, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lobsters and cook for 5-6 minutes, then remove and cool. Once cooled, split the lobsters in half lengthwise.

Grill the Lobsters

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the lobster halves on the grill, shell side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, basting with the herb butter frequently.

Serve

Once the lobster is cooked through and slightly charred, remove from the grill. Add extra herb butter on top before serving with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips

Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the herb butter mix before applying it to the lobster.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Herb Butter Grilled Lobster, a side of lemon wedges is essential as the acidity cuts through the richness of the butter and lobster. You can also add a light salad or roasted vegetables for an elegant presentation. For a true gourmet experience, consider serving a chilled white wine or sparkling cider alongside, which will complement the flavors beautifully and enhance the overall meal.

If you're feeling adventurous, try a side of garlic bread brushed with some of the leftover herb butter. This not only utilizes the flavors you’ve already embraced but also makes for a perfect vessel for soaking up any remaining butter sauce from the plate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge when grilling lobsters is overcooking, which can lead to tough, rubbery meat. To avoid this, invest in a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for perfectly cooked lobster. If the lobsters are already precooked, remember to monitor them closely as they may only need a light warming on the grill.

If your herb butter is too soft to use initially, a quick tip is to pop it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before shaping it into a log. Conversely, if it hardens too much in the fridge, letting it sit at room temperature for just a few minutes will restore its spreadability without compromising texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What other herbs can I use in the butter?

Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or tarragon for different flavor profiles.

→ Is it necessary to split the lobsters?

Splitting them allows the meat to cook evenly and helps absorb the herb butter better.

→ Can this recipe be made in the oven instead?

Yes, you can bake the lobsters at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes if you don't have a grill.