1. Choosing and Preparing the Lobster Tails

Select fresh or frozen lobster tails that weigh between 5–8 ounces each. If frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Preparation steps:

1. Split the tails: Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the shell lengthwise from the open end to just before the tail fan. Gently pull the shell apart to expose the meat.

2. Lift the meat slightly above the shell for even cooking but keep it attached at the base.

3. Season generously: Brush with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika for color.

4. Add aromatics: You can also top with minced garlic, parsley, or lemon zest for enhanced flavor.

2. Preheating the Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F / 200–230°C) with the lid closed for about 10 minutes. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grilling Lobster Tails

Lobster tails can be grilled shell side down or flesh side down first for extra caramelization.

Method A: Shell-Side Down (Recommended for Beginners)

1. Place the lobster tails shell side down on the grill.

2. Close the lid and cook for 6–8 minutes, depending on size.

3. Baste occasionally with melted butter or garlic butter.

4. The lobster is done when the meat turns opaque and firm, reaching an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C).

Method B: Flesh-Side Down First (For Char Marks)

1. Start with the lobster flesh side down for 2–3 minutes to sear and add light grill marks.

2. Flip to shell side down and continue grilling for another 5–6 minutes with the lid closed.

3. Baste with butter or lemon juice during the final minutes for a glossy finish.

4. Basting and Flavor Variations

Enhance the lobster’s natural sweetness with flavorful basting mixtures:

• Garlic Herb Butter: Melted butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon juice.

• Citrus Glaze: Olive oil, orange zest, lime juice, and honey.

• Spicy Butter: Butter with chili flakes and smoked paprika.

• Asian Style: Soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.

Brush the mixture over the lobster meat several times during grilling to keep it moist and aromatic.

5. Step-by-Step BBQ Method

1. Preheat grill to 400–450°F (200–230°C).

2. Prepare lobster tails by splitting and seasoning them.

3. Grill shell-side down for 6–8 minutes, basting occasionally.

4. Check internal temperature — the meat should reach 140–145°F (60–63°C).

5. Remove and rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

6. Serving Suggestions

Grilled lobster tails pair wonderfully with a range of sides and sauces:

• Drawn butter or lemon garlic butter for dipping

• Grilled asparagus or corn on the cob

• Roasted potatoes or herbed rice

• Fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette

For presentation, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and parsley.

7. Helpful Grilling Tips

• Avoid overcooking: Overdone lobster turns rubbery. Remove it as soon as the flesh turns opaque.

• Use indirect heat for large tails: If they’re thick, move them to a cooler grill zone after searing to finish cooking evenly.

• Keep the lid closed: This helps trap heat and cook the meat gently.

• Use a thermometer: It’s the best way to ensure perfect doneness.

• Baste often: Butter keeps the meat juicy and prevents drying out.

8. Conclusion

BBQ lobster tails on a gas grill take just 6–10 minutes and deliver gourmet-level flavor with minimal effort. The secret is moderate heat, frequent basting, and a careful watch to avoid overcooking. With steady performance and precision flame control from a TopGrill Outdoor gas grill, you can achieve restaurant-quality lobster tails — tender, buttery, and infused with smoky sweetness — perfect for any summer celebration or special dinner.