How to Grill Lobster Including Garlic-Butter Seasoning Recipe

Written by Boatsetter Team
June 9, 2025

Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Boatsetter Team

Some say the best part of lobster season is the thrill of the catch. Others say it’s the feast that follows. Whether you’re diving for spiny lobster during the Florida Keys’ Mini Season or hauling traps in the Northeast, one thing’s universal: grilled lobster is a must.

This garlic butter–grilled spiny lobster recipe serves five and brings out rich, smoky flavor with just the right kick of spice perfect for a relaxed cookout with friends after a day on the water. Using a flavorful lobster seasoning blend, follow the steps below to pull off the perfect waterside meal.

Ingredients for garlic butter seasoning 

  • 5 spiny lobster tails (1 per person)

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or ~1½ tablespoons pre-minced garlic)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • Optional: Juice of ½ lemon for a citrus kick

  • Lobster seasoning

Grilling instructions 

  1. Split the lobster, or just the tail, down the middle with a stiff knife.
  2. Baste the meat of the lobster with the butter mix.
  3. Place the lobster shell-side-down on the grill, close the grill cover, leave it for five minutes.
  4. Baste the meat with seasoning and flip the lobster. Leave for another five minutes.
  5. Squeeze a fresh sliced lime or lemon over the meat for added flavor.

Perfect side dishes for grilled lobster

No lobster cookout is complete without a few fresh, summer-ready sides. These three dishes pair perfectly with grilled spiny lobster, bringing balance and brightness to the meal:

1. Grilled corn on the cob with lime butter

Sweet and smoky with a citrusy kick. Grill the corn alongside your lobster, then brush with a mix of melted butter, lime juice, and a dash of chili powder.

2. Chilled watermelon and feta salad

Refreshing and light, this salad adds a burst of color and flavor. Toss cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, thin-sliced red onion, and fresh mint. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

3. Garlic-herb roasted potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Roast baby potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic until golden. A hearty, satisfying contrast to the richness of lobster.


Browse by experience


Explore articles