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Perfect Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails

crab stuffed lobster tails - featured image

An easy yet elegant seafood feast featuring tender lobster tails stuffed with rich crab meat and savory seasoning, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large lobster tails (68 oz / 170225 g each), fresh or thawed
  • 1 cup lump crab meat (about 150 g), fresh or high-quality canned
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (60 g), softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (about 30 g), gluten-free if needed
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently pry the shell open and lift the lobster meat up, resting it on top of the shell without detaching it completely.
  3. Season the lobster meat lightly with salt and pepper and set aside.
  4. Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine lump crab meat, softened butter, cooled shallots and garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold together to keep crab meat intact. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Spoon the crab mixture evenly over the lobster meat, pressing lightly to adhere. Brush the exposed crab and lobster with a bit more melted butter if desired.
  7. Place stuffed lobster tails on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crab stuffing is golden and lobster meat is opaque and cooked through (internal temperature 140°F / 60°C).
  8. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier topping, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh or well-thawed lobster tails for best results. Do not overstuff the lobster tails to prevent stuffing from falling off. Brushing with melted butter before baking keeps the dish moist and adds a golden finish. Watch baking time closely to avoid rubbery lobster. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs. For dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Optional broiling adds a crispy topping. Can also be grilled for a smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: crab stuffed lobster tails, seafood recipe, elegant dinner, easy seafood, lobster tails, crab stuffing, holiday seafood, special occasion meal