Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite seafood dish: baked stuffed lobster tail delight! This dish is a real showstopper, with succulent lobster tails filled to the brim with a savory stuffing that just screams indulgence. The aroma wafting through the kitchen while it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I remember the first time I made this for friends; their eyes lit up when I brought it to the table! It’s not just about the flavor—though it’s rich and buttery—but also the way it looks, all golden and inviting. Trust me, this dish will elevate any dinner party or cozy night in!
Ingredients List
- 4 lobster tails
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Baked Stuffed Lobster Tail Delight
Preheating and Preparing the Mixture
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want our lobster tails to bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked. While that’s warming up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the bread crumbs, cooked crab meat, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I love to mix it all together with my hands—trust me; it’s the best way to really get everything combined! You want a nice, cohesive stuffing that will hold together well.
Preparing the Lobster Tails
Now onto the star of the show: the lobster tails! Carefully split each tail down the middle lengthwise. I like to use kitchen scissors for this job; it makes things so much easier. Once split, gently remove the meat from the shells and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; it’ll all come together in the stuffing! Now, fold the chopped lobster meat into your stuffing mixture, giving it a good stir to incorporate everything. This is where the magic happens—each bite will be bursting with flavor.
Stuffing and Baking
Time to fill those lobster shells! Spoon the stuffing mixture generously into each half of the lobster tail, packing it in nicely. Place the stuffed tails on a baking sheet, making sure they’re snug but not touching each other. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the lobster meat is opaque and firm, and the stuffing has turned a lovely golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner!
Tips for Success
To ensure your baked stuffed lobster tail delight turns out perfectly, here are some tips that I swear by! First, always use fresh lobster tails if you can; they make a world of difference in flavor. If you’re using frozen ones, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before starting. When mixing your stuffing, don’t be shy about tasting it! Adjust the seasoning to your liking—sometimes a little extra garlic or a pinch more paprika can elevate the dish. Be careful not to overstuff the lobster shells; you want them to hold together without spilling out. Lastly, keep a close eye on them in the oven. They can go from perfect to overcooked pretty quickly, so check for doneness a few minutes early! Trust me, these little tips will take your dish from good to absolutely amazing!
Nutritional Information
When you indulge in this baked stuffed lobster tail delight, you’ll be treated to a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Each serving (one lobster tail) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 15g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. Enjoying this dish in moderation can definitely fit into a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Absolutely! Frozen lobster tails can work nicely in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before you start. I usually let them sit in the fridge overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure your stuffing sticks and the lobster cooks evenly!
What can I serve with baked stuffed lobster tail delight?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! I recommend serving it alongside a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, or perhaps some garlic butter asparagus. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or a side of risotto are fantastic choices. Don’t forget some lemon wedges for that zesty finish!
How do I know when the lobster is done?
Checking for doneness in lobster is pretty straightforward! The meat should turn opaque and firm to the touch. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach around 140°F (60°C). And trust me, the aroma will be a giveaway too—your kitchen will smell divine when it’s ready!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Impressive dish that’s perfect for special occasions or date nights
- Rich, buttery flavors that seafood lovers will adore
- Simple ingredients that come together for a gourmet experience
- Great for entertaining, as it looks stunning on the plate
- Customizable stuffing to suit your taste—add more herbs or spices!
- Quick prep and bake time, so you can enjoy more time with your guests
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of your baked stuffed lobster tail delight (though I doubt it!), proper storage is key to enjoying this dish later. Allow the lobster tails to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overdo it—just heat in short bursts to avoid rubbery lobster! Enjoy the deliciousness all over again!
Serving Suggestions
To really elevate your baked stuffed lobster tail delight, consider pairing it with a light, refreshing side salad topped with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt make a lovely complement, too. And if you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a side of buttery corn on the cob. These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests!
Print
Baked Stuffed Lobster Tail Delight: 7 Reasons to Indulge
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Baked stuffed lobster tail delight is a rich seafood dish featuring lobster tails filled with a savory stuffing.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix bread crumbs, crab meat, melted butter, garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Carefully split the lobster tails in half lengthwise.
- Remove the meat and chop it into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped lobster meat with the stuffing mixture.
- Fill the lobster shells with the stuffing.
- Place the stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the lobster is cooked through.
Notes
- Ensure lobster is fresh for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with lemon wedges for added zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lobster tail
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: baked stuffed lobster tail delight, seafood, lobster, stuffed lobster tails
