Air Fryer Frozen Lobster Tails

Air Fryer Frozen Lobster Tails — Have you ever thought about grabbing a frozen lobster tail?

Within a few minutes of preparation, you can have a delicious batch of lobster meat topped with melted butter, perfect for a quick or luxurious special dinner.

Cooking lobster tails from frozen has never been easier! They are perfect for Thanksgiving Dinner, Christmas Dinner, Valentine’s Day, and date night; of course, I love serving them for my family on any special occasion. This is an impressive meal, and only you and I will know that this took you minutes to make in the comfort of your home, but it will rival and fancy restaurant. 

Can You Cook Frozen Lobster In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen lobster in an air fryer! So, the next time you are at the grocery store, grab a package of frozen lobster tails and get cooking! The hardest part of this recipe is learning how to butterfly lobster tails, but don’t fret; we will show you below!

Ingredients Needed For Cooking Frozen Lobster Tails In Air Fryer​

When it comes to selecting a delicious and easy meal, frozen lobster tails are definitely a top choice. They taste amazing and are conveniently pre-cooked, allowing you to quickly make them in an air fryer for homemade restaurant-style cuisine!

The key to making this dish successful is having all of your ingredients ready beforehand so that the cooking process goes smoothly. Read on below for some tips on what ingredients you’ll need before starting your air fryer!

​Remember the detailed ingredient list and step-by-step directions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information. 

• 1-2 frozen lobster tails. My favorite is Maine Lobster Tails
• Melted unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic powder or other seasonings (optional)
• Sharp Kitchen Scissors

How To Cook Frozen Lobster Tails In Air Fryer

Did you know that despite being kingly, lobster tails can be economical eats if bought frozen? If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook your lobster tails, an air fryer is perfect! ​

Below, we will go over the steps of how to cook frozen lobster tails in an air fryer. Follow along with us as we walk through preparing these tasty morsels with minimal effort – it’s easier than you may think!

• Prep the Lobster: rinse the top of the shell with cold water and pat them dry.  Cutting a lobster shell with kitchen shears or scissors is a common method for preparing lobster tails. 
• Season the Lobster: Brush the lobster tails with melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees F (193°C).
• Cook the Lobster: Place the lobster tails in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. If your lobster tails are frozen, you may need to cook them longer. For thawed tails or fresh lobster tails, cook for about 6-8 minutes. You might need to cook frozen tails for around 15 minutes.
• Check the Lobster: The lobster is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), and the meat is opaque. If you don’t have a food thermometer, look for the shell to turn bright red and the meat to become white.
• Serve the Lobster: Remove the cooked lobster tails from the air fryer and serve with additional melted butter and lemon wedges.

Remember, this is a basic recipe, and your cooking time may vary based on the size of the lobster tail and the model of your air fryer. Always make sure your lobster is cooked thoroughly before serving.

Pro Tips For Cooking Frozen Lobster In Air Fryer

​Cooking frozen lobster in an air fryer can be a simple and delicious way to prepare this seafood delicacy. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Season Well: Don’t forget to season your lobster tails. This can be as simple as brushing them with melted butter and sprinkling them with salt and pepper. For more flavor, you can add garlic or herbs.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer can help ensure your lobster cooks evenly.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Be sure not to overcrowd your air fryer. The hot air needs to be able to circulate around each lobster’s tail. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook your lobster tails in batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Lobster is cooked properly when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). A meat thermometer can help ensure your lobster is cooked to the right temperature.
• Check the Color: You can also check the color to tell if your lobster is done. The shell should turn bright red, and the meat should turn translucent to white.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook your lobster, as it can become tough and rubbery. Check frequently. The exact cook time will depend on the size of your lobster tails. 

How To Butterfly Lobster

Cutting a lobster shell with kitchen shears or scissors is a common method for preparing lobster tails. Here’s how to do it:

1. Position the Lobster Tail: Place the lobster tail on a cutting board or another stable surface with the backside (hard shell) facing up.
2. Insert the Shears: Take a pair of kitchen shears and insert the tip of the shears into the end of the lobster tail (not the end with the tail fins).
3. Cut the Shell: Carefully cut down the middle of the back, stopping just before you reach the tail fins. You want to cut the shell but avoid cutting the meat.
4. Open the Tail: Use your hands to open the shell once the shell is cut gently. You can then rinse the meat to remove any grit or vein that may be present.
5. Prepare for Cooking: Depending on your recipe, you might want to butterfly the tail (lay the meat over the shell) or leave the meat in the shell.

Remember to be careful when handling shears or scissors and when handling the cut lobster shell, as the edges can be sharp. A clean cut can make it easier to cook the lobster tail evenly and can make it easier to eat as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Frozen Lobster Tails In Air Fryer

​Can I cook lobster tails from frozen in an air fryer? 

Yes, you can. However, it’s generally recommended to thaw the lobster tails first for best results. This helps ensure even cooking. If cooking from frozen, you will need to increase the cooking time.

How long does cooking frozen lobster tails in an air fryer take?

Frozen lobster tails must cook in an air fryer at 380°F for around 15 minutes. However, the exact time can vary based on the size of the lobster tails and the model of your air fryer.

How do I know when my lobster tail is done? 

The lobster tail is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, the shell turns bright red, and the meat is opaque and white. You can look for these visual cues if you don’t have a food thermometer. However, a food thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your lobster is properly cooked.

Can I add other seasonings to my lobster tail? 

Yes, feel free to season your lobster tail to taste. Common seasonings include butter, salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon. You can also use fresh herbs or create a spicy seasoning with cayenne pepper or chili flakes. My favorite way to serve these is with lemon zest and garlic butter.

What should I serve with my lobster tail? 

Lobster tails are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a baked potato. Don’t forget a slice of lemon for squeezing over the lobster and perhaps some melted butter for dipping!

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