Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely cook lobster tails in a cast iron skillet. A cast iron skillet is actually an ideal pan for cooking lobster tails because it distributes heat evenly and can withstand the high heat needed to achieve a nice sear on the outside of the lobster while keeping the interior moist and tender. The key things to know when cooking lobster tails in cast iron are to use high heat (like medium-high to high) and frequently baste the lobster tails with butter while they cook.
Cooking Lobster Tails in Cast Iron Step-by-Step
Here is a step-by-step guide for cooking perfect lobster tails in a cast iron skillet:
Ingredients
– Lobster tails, thawed if frozen
– Melted butter for basting
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh parsley or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Pat the lobster tails dry thoroughly with paper towels. Use kitchen shears to cut lengthwise through the top shell of each lobster tail, cutting about two-thirds of the way down through the meat.
2. Season the lobster tail meat with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high to high heat until very hot. When the pan starts to lightly smoke, add 1-2 tablespoons of melted butter.
4. Place the lobster tails meat-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 2 minutes without moving them so they can get a nice sear.
5. Use tongs to flip each lobster tail over. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Use a spoon to baste the lobster tails with the melted butter in the pan. Repeat basting every 30-60 seconds as they cook.
7. After about 2-3 minutes of cooking basted-side down, the tails should be opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 140-145°F when measured with a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
8. Remove the lobster tails from the pan and transfer to a serving platter. Spoon any butter remaining in the pan over the lobster tails.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy immediately while hot.
Tips for Perfect Lobster Tails
– Choose lobster tails that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Thaw frozen tails overnight in the fridge before cooking.
– Use a cast iron skillet or pan that is oven-safe. You can start the lobster tails on the stovetop then transfer the pan to a 425°F oven to finish cooking.
– Cut the shells before cooking for even heat distribution. Remove the small swimmerets on the underside so seasoning penetrates.
– Preheat the skillet properly so the lobster gets an initial sear. Use medium-high to high heat for best results.
– Baste frequently with butter. Spoon melted butter over the tails continuously as they cook for maximum flavor and moisture.
– Don’t overcook them. Lobster can become rubbery if cooked too long. Use a food thermometer to judge doneness.
– Allow the lobster tails to rest for 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will rise slightly as they rest.
Benefits of Cast Iron for Cooking Lobster Tails
Cooking lobster tails in cast iron offers several advantages over other cookware options:
Even Heating
Cast iron skillets heat evenly and hold their temperature very well. This allows the lobster tails to sear nicely on the exterior while cooking gently inside. The even heat distribution helps prevent overcooking.
Great Sear
The seasoned surface of cast iron can get ripping hot. This makes it easy to develop a nicely caramelized, crispy sear on the lobster tail outer shell.
Heat Retention
Cast iron retains heat well after coming off the stovetop. The pan will stay hotlong enough to finish cooking the lobster tails.
Natural Non-Stick Surface
Well-seasoned cast iron develops a natural non-stick patina. Lobster won’t stick as readily as it would in stainless steel or aluminum cookware.
Browning and Fond
Searing the lobster tails builds flavorful browned bits (fond) on the bottom of the pan. The fond incorporates into the basting butter, adding rich flavor.
No Reactions
The iron and seasoning of cast iron won’t react with acidic lobster like reactive metals can. No metallic tastes.
Step-by-Step Photo Guide
Here is a visual, step-by-step guide for cooking lobster tails in cast iron:
| 1. Cut top side of shells lengthwise using kitchen shears | |
| 2. Season lobster meat with salt and pepper | |
| 3. Heat cast iron skillet with melted butter over high heat | |
| 4. Sear lobster meat-side down for 2 minutes | |
| 5. Flip and cook basted-side down while basting continuously | |
| 6. Cook until opaque and meat reaches 140°F internally | |
| 7. Transfer lobster to platter and spoon over any pan butter |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size cast iron skillet do I need?
An 8-inch or 10-inch cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking 2-4 lobster tails. Make sure the skillet is oven-safe if you want to start on the stovetop and finish in the oven.
What temperature should I cook lobster tails at?
Use medium-high to high heat, around 400°F to 500°F, for searing the lobster tails and basting while cooking on the stovetop. If finishing in the oven, bake at 425°F-450°F until done.
How long does it take to cook lobster tails in cast iron?
It takes 5-8 minutes total cooking time in cast iron. Sear meat-side down for 2 minutes, flip and cook basted-side down for another 3-5 minutes while basting continuously.
How do I prevent sticking?
Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Baste continuously while searing. Let the tails develop a crust before trying to flip or move them. Consider lining the pan with foil for easy cleanup.
How can I tell when they’re done?
Check for an opaque, pearly white appearance throughout the lobster meat. Use an instant-read thermometer to test doneness; the thickest part of the meat should reach 140-145°F.
Can I cook frozen lobster tails in cast iron?
Yes, but thaw them completely first in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Starting with fully frozen tails may lead to uneven cooking.
Additional Serving Ideas
– Serve lobster tails with clarified butter for dipping.
– Pair with parsley butter or lemon-garlic butter melted on top.
– Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and serve with a green salad or baked potato.
– Make lobster rolls by roughly chopping the meat and mixing with mayo, lemon, and celery.
– Chop lobster meat and add to risotto, pasta, or scrambled eggs.
– Stuff lobster meat into ravioli or use for lobster mac and cheese.
– Enjoy lobster tails as surf part of surf and turf with steak.
Conclusion
Cast iron skillets are perfect for cooking lobster tails, allowing you to achieve a crisp, flavorful sear on the outside while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Follow the simple steps for cutting the shells, searing the meat, and basting continuously with butter as the tails cook. In just 5-8 minutes, you’ll have delicious restaurant-quality lobster tails with no hassle. Experiment with fun lobster tail serving ideas or pairings. Your family and friends will be impressed with how easily you can cook impressive gourmet seafood at home using classic cast iron cookware.