Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Perfect for special gatherings or a cozy night in, these succulent tails deliver an irresistible crunch and rich flavor. The combination of buttermilk and Old Bay seasoning creates a unique taste that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a seafood craving, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these lobster tails without any fuss.
- Flavorful Experience: The blend of buttermilk and Old Bay seasoning infuses each bite with delicious flavor that’s sure to satisfy.
- Perfectly Crispy: Achieve that satisfying crunch with our foolproof frying technique—ideal for seafood lovers!
- Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter for your next gathering.
- Impressive Presentation: These golden lobster tails are not only tasty but also visually stunning, making them great for entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing crispy deep fried lobster tails.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cooking thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep fryer or large pot: Essential for achieving even cooking temperatures, which result in perfectly crispy lobster tails.
- Slotted spoon: Allows for easy removal of the lobster tails from the oil while letting excess oil drain off.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients like buttermilk and flour to create your batter.

Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails
- 3 lobster tails
For the Batter
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
How to Make Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Start by thawing the lobster tails if they are frozen. Carefully cut down the center of each tail shell using kitchen scissors. Gently pull apart the shell and lift the meat slightly above it while keeping it attached at one end.
Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk
In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and Old Bay seasoning. Place the prepared lobster tails in this mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those flavors.
Step 3: Coat with Flour
After marinating, remove each tail from the buttermilk mixture and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each tail in all-purpose flour, coating evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying
In your deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to check the temperature; this is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
Step 5: Fry the Lobster Tails
Carefully place coated lobster tails into the hot oil. Fry them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the lobster tails from the oil. Place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Crispy deep fried lobster tails are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these tails can elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Garlic Butter Sauce
- Drizzle melted garlic butter over the lobster tails for a rich and savory flavor that complements the crispy coating.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the lobster tails on a fresh bed of mixed greens, adding bright colors and freshness to your plate while balancing the richness of the dish.
Accompanied by Lemon Wedges
- Fresh lemon wedges provide a zesty kick. Squeeze them over the crispy tails just before eating for an extra burst of flavor.
Paired with Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces like spicy mayo, tartar sauce, or aioli. This adds different flavor profiles and allows guests to customize their experience.
How to Perfect Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Making crispy deep fried lobster tails is an art. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
-
Choose Fresh Lobster: Freshness matters! Select high-quality lobster tails for the best flavor and texture.
-
Marinate in Buttermilk: Soaking lobster tails in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and enhances moisture, leading to a juicier bite.
-
Use Old Bay Seasoning: Adding Old Bay seasoning during preparation infuses the lobster with delicious, aromatic flavors that elevate your dish.
-
Heat Oil Properly: Ensure your frying oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before adding the lobster tails. Correct temperature prevents sogginess and ensures crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Complement your crispy deep fried lobster tails with these side dishes. They add balance and variety to your meal while enhancing the overall experience.
-
Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw provides freshness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the lobster.
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with seafood.
-
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled until slightly charred offer a light and healthy contrast to your dish.
-
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness and fun texture, perfect for summer gatherings.
-
Crispy French Fries: Classic fries provide extra crunch and can be enjoyed as a fun finger food alongside your lobster.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the seafood flavors.
-
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes for an aromatic side that’s easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with lobster.
-
Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer another crispy option that ties in nicely with your deep-fried treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking at the wrong temperature. Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to achieve that crispy texture.
- Skipping the buttermilk soak. This step adds flavor and tenderness to the lobster tails, so don’t skip it!
- Overcrowding the frying pot. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.
- Not using fresh ingredients. Always choose fresh lobster tails for the best taste and texture; frozen can lead to a mushy result.
- Failing to drain excess oil. After frying, place lobster tails on paper towels to absorb extra oil for a crispier finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container. This will help maintain freshness and prevent odors from mixing.
- Consume within 2-3 days. For optimal taste, enjoy your crispy deep fried lobster tails as soon as possible.
Freezing Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil if needed for crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding crispy deep fried lobster tails.
How do I know when my lobster tails are done?
The meat should be opaque and firm, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails?
Pair with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauces like lemon butter or garlic aioli.
How do I make my recipe gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a similar crispy effect.
Can I customize the seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Crispy deep fried lobster tails are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize this recipe by trying different seasonings or dips. Don’t hesitate—give this delightful dish a try!
Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails
Indulge in the delight of Crispy Deep Fried Lobster Tails, a dish that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. These succulent lobster tails are marinated in a rich buttermilk mixture seasoned with Old Bay, then coated in a light flour batter and fried to golden perfection. The result is a crunchy exterior that encases tender, flavorful lobster meat, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties or cozy nights at home. Serve them alongside zesty lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces for an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your guests!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 3 lobster tails
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Thaw lobster tails if frozen. Cut down the center of each shell and gently lift the meat above while keeping it attached.
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and Old Bay seasoning. Marinate the lobster tails in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove tails from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each tail in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the lobster tails in batches for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lobster tail (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
