Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or fettuccine; Salt (for pasta water); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup white wine; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta for a special occasion or just to indulge myself on a weeknight. The rich, buttery sauce combined with tender lobster and al dente pasta creates an irresistible dish that tantalizes my taste buds every time. I’ve experimented with different types of pasta and spices, but I always return to the classic lemon and garlic combination that perfectly complements the lobster’s sweetness. It’s truly a luxurious yet simple meal that never fails to impress.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:46:12.996Z

My first attempt at Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta was a revelation. I always thought lobster was difficult to cook, but it turned out to be incredibly simple. I sautéed the garlic until fragrant and then mixed it with butter to create a luscious sauce that really brought out the flavors of the lobster. By adding a splash of white wine, I found that I could elevate the dish even further, making it perfect for a dinner party.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to a successful pasta dish is not overcooking the lobster. I usually add it towards the end of the cooking process, letting the residual heat cook it just right. Pairing this with freshly cooked pasta ensures each bite is delicious and satisfying. Trust me, this dish will impress anyone at your table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic butter flavor with a hint of lemon
Tender lobster that adds a touch of luxury
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

When preparing Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta, selecting the right pasta is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. I recommend using linguine or fettuccine due to their wider surface area, which allows the rich garlic butter sauce to cling beautifully. If you're in the mood for a twist, consider substituting with freshly made pasta, which cooks in just a couple of minutes and elevates the dish even further. Always refer to the package instructions for cooking time, but typically, al dente pasta should be cooked for about 8-10 minutes in boiling salted water.

In addition to the type of pasta, the cooking technique plays a significant role. Adding a generous amount of salt to the boiling water not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps it retain its texture. Keeping a cup of pasta water is essential; this starchy water is a key ingredient to creating a silky sauce that adheres perfectly to the pasta, bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it just right can elevate your meal. Start by melting the butter over medium heat—if the heat is too high, the butter can brown too quickly and develop an undesirable flavor. Sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; be careful not to let it turn golden, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes during this step balances the sauce, but feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.

Incorporating white wine adds depth to the sauce while enhancing the overall flavor. Allow the wine to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly. This creates a rich base that complements the sweetness of the lobster. For a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute the wine with a splash of chicken broth and a little extra lemon juice for acidity. This adjustment maintains the dish's bright flavor profile while adhering to dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once your Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta is plated, consider enhancing its presentation with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving adds a zesty brightness that complements the dish beautifully. Pairing this pasta with a light salad, such as arugula with citrus vinaigrette, can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

If you want to incorporate seasonal ingredients, try adding sautéed asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. These vegetables can be tossed in with the lobster for the last minute of cooking, allowing them to soften but still retain their vibrant hue. This not only enhances the dish but also increases its nutritional value, making it a well-rounded meal fit for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz linguine or fettuccine
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Sauce

4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup white wine
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Combine Lobster and Pasta

Add the lobster meat, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer texture. Also, feel free to substitute the lobster with shrimp or crab depending on your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and lobster separately. Store the cooked pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, and reheat it gently before combining with the sauce. If reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce's creaminess, ensuring it doesn't dry out during the reheating process.

For leftovers, store the Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. While pasta can be reheated, it's best to avoid microwaving it directly, as this can result in uneven heating. Instead, reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter or olive oil, stirring to ensure even warming.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Achieving the perfect balance of flavors is essential in Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta. If your sauce tastes too salty, adding a bit of sugar or more lemon juice can cut through the saltiness, helping to balance the dish. Alternatively, if the sauce feels too thin, continue simmering it for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken and intensify in flavor.

Another common issue is overcooking the lobster. Since the lobster is already cooked and just needs to be warmed through, add it to the sauce just a minute or two before tossing in the pasta. This ensures it remains tender and doesn’t become rubbery, allowing you to enjoy its delicate sweetness alongside the rich garlic butter sauce.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

Scaling this recipe is simple; whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, maintaining the same ratios of ingredients is key. For larger servings, increase the amounts of pasta, lobster, and sauce accordingly. However, be mindful of the cooking vessel size—you may need to cook in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking and flavor distribution.

Conversely, if you're making a smaller batch, cutting the ingredients in half retains the same flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, particularly for the pasta, as smaller portions can cook faster. Maintaining that al dente texture is essential for this dish, no matter the scale.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and cooked before adding it to the dish.

→ What other pasta types can I use?

You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti or penne, according to your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the lobster and pasta right before serving.