Name: Grilled Lobster Tails and Shrimp with Herb-Butter Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the seafood:; 2 lobster tails, split down the center; 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges, for serving; For the herb-butter sauce:; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp fresh thyme or basil (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Grilled Lobster Tails and Shrimp with Herb-Butter Sauce recipe is my go-to when I want to serve something elegant but simple. The lobster tails and shrimp are grilled to perfection—tender, smoky, and slightly charred—then drizzled with a rich, garlicky herb-butter sauce that melts right over the top. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, perfect for summer grilling or special dinners at home.

Grilled Lobster Tails and Shrimp with Herb-Butter Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish feels fancy but doesn’t require complicated steps. The grill gives the seafood that beautiful char and smoky flavor, while the herb-butter sauce adds richness and brightness at the same time. It’s easy to prepare, cooks quickly, and makes any meal feel like a celebration. Whether I’m serving it with pasta, salad, or crusty bread, this dish always impresses.

ingredients

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

For the seafood:

Lobster tails, split down the center
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the herb-butter sauce:

Unsalted butter
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh thyme or basil (optional)
Lemon juice
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Salt

directions

I preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
I pat the lobster tails and shrimp dry, then brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
In a small saucepan over low heat, I melt the butter and stir in garlic, herbs, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. I let it simmer gently for a few minutes until fragrant, then set it aside.
I place the lobster tails flesh-side down on the grill for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the meat is opaque and lightly charred.
I grill the shrimp at the same time, about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and firm.
I remove everything from the grill, drizzle with the herb-butter sauce, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 25–30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add scallops to the mix for a full grilled seafood platter. I’ve also used garlic herb compound butter instead of making the sauce fresh, especially when I’m short on time. For a spicy kick, I add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter. If I want a more citrus-forward flavor, I swap the parsley for fresh dill and double the lemon juice.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm the seafood in a skillet over low heat with a splash of the herb butter or a little water to keep it moist. I avoid microwaving since it can overcook the shrimp and lobster.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, I just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling. Excess moisture can cause the seafood to steam instead of char.

How do I know when lobster and shrimp are fully cooked?

I watch for the lobster meat to turn opaque and white, and the shrimp to become pink and firm. Overcooked seafood gets rubbery, so I keep a close eye while grilling.

Can I cook this indoors?

Absolutely. I’ve made it using a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop. The flavor’s still fantastic—just make sure to ventilate well.

What sides go best with this dish?

I usually serve it with grilled vegetables, garlic butter rice, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. A chilled pasta salad also works great.

Can I prep the butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes. I make it in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I reheat it gently until melted and pourable.

Conclusion

This Grilled Lobster Tails and Shrimp with Herb-Butter Sauce recipe is my favorite way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and always a showstopper on the plate. Whether I’m grilling for a special occasion or just treating myself to something indulgent, this recipe never disappoints.