Name: Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta; 3 lobster tails (5 ounces each); 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 1 clove garlic (peeled and smashed); 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 3 cloves garlic (minced or pressed); 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (stripped from stems); 2 tsp fresh basil (torn apart); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Zest of half a medium lemon; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; Fresh basil; Additional parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 54 reviews

If you are craving a luxurious yet approachable seafood feast, this Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly the treat you need. Imagine sweet, tender lobster chunks bathed in a rich, buttery sauce bursting with fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly al dente pasta. This dish feels indulgent without being complicated, making it a stunning centerpiece for a special dinner or a memorable weekend meal. The harmonious blend of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors will keep you coming back for more, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a silver pan on a white marbled surface, holding four lobster tails being cooked in melted yellow butter. Each lobster tail is split open, revealing the white and pink meat inside with bright red shells curling around the edges. The butter pools around the lobster, creating small bubbles and a shiny texture. The lobster tails are arranged spread out inside the pan, showing distinct segments and a slightly translucent look on the meat. The pan’s handle is visible at the bottom right, and the scene is lit brightly to highlight the colors and textures of the lobster and butter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, bringing color, depth, and texture to the plate. They are simple pantry staples and fresh herbs that combine effortlessly to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet without any fuss.

12 ounces pasta: Choose a pasta that holds sauce well, like linguine or fettuccine, to elevate the texture.
3 5-ounce lobster tails: The star of the dish, delivering tender, flavorful seafood that’s simply irresistible.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Creates the rich, silky base for poaching lobster and building the sauce.
1 clove garlic (peeled and smashed): Infuses gentle aroma into the butter without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the lobster meat perfectly.
3 cloves garlic (minced or pressed): Adds punchy, fragrant flavor right into the sauce.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (leaves stripped from stems): Brings an earthy freshness that brightens the sauce.
2 teaspoons fresh basil (torn apart): Provides a sweet, peppery note to balance the richness.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Offers just the right hint of heat to enliven every bite; adjust to your spice preference.
Zest of half a medium lemon: Adds a vibrant citrus zing that cuts through the butteriness.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Melts into the sauce for that creamy, nutty finish.
1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce and binds all the flavors together with silky consistency.
Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (for serving): Fresh garnishes to enhance the presentation and flavor.

How to Make Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prepare Lobster

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil to cook your pasta al dente. Cooking the pasta properly provides the perfect base for your sauce to cling to. While the pasta cooks, carefully prepare the lobster tails by cutting the shell along the bottom and gently freeing the meat. Pat the lobster dry to ensure it sautés beautifully, then season with kosher salt.

Step 2: Butter Poach the Lobster

In a large saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat with a smashed garlic clove. This simple step infuses the butter with subtle garlic flavor that permeates the lobster as it cooks. Add the lobster tails and cook them in the butter, flipping after a minute or two. Sauté them just until opaque, about 4 to 5 minutes total, which keeps the lobster tender and juicy. Remove from the pan and chop into large chunks.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Herb Parmesan Sauce

Using the same pan, add minced garlic, fresh thyme, torn basil leaves, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Cook this combination briefly until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without browning, which develops a complex, herbaceous base. Turn off the heat, then add the hot pasta along with reserved pasta water to the pan. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss to combine; the cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Gently fold the chopped lobster chunks back into the pasta and give everything a careful toss to distribute the lobster evenly without breaking up the pieces. Serve your lobster pasta immediately while it’s warm and fragrant, garnished generously with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to add color and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe

A dish of pasta with creamy sauce sits in a white bowl with a dark blue inside, placed on a wooden board with carved designs. The pasta is light yellow and soft, layered with small orange lobster pieces and sprinkled with finely grated white cheese. Scattered around the pasta are bright green fresh basil leaves and tiny green herb sprigs. The bowl is on a white marbled surface with some green herbs nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese make excellent garnishes, adding vibrant color and fresh, herbal brightness to contrast the buttery richness of this pasta. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can also elevate the dish’s appearance and taste beautifully.

Side Dishes

This lobster pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the luscious herb Parmesan sauce, completing the meal in the most delicious way.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a small lobster claw placed on top as a delightful garnish. Alternatively, use edible flowers or finely chopped fresh herbs sprinkled over the top to offer a pop of color and elegance for dinner parties or romantic meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place the leftover lobster pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Since the pasta is tossed in a butter-based sauce, it holds up well but is best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing lobster pasta is not recommended as seafood and cream-based sauces can separate or become rubbery after thawing, which compromises the delicious texture and flavor of the dish.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve the sauce’s silky texture and the lobster’s tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster tails work just fine—simply thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even poaching and the best texture.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Long, thin pasta varieties such as linguine or fettuccine are ideal because their shape catches the sauce beautifully, delivering the perfect bite with every forkful.

Can I prepare the sauce without fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs make a big flavor difference, you can substitute dried herbs in smaller quantities if needed. Just reduce the amounts and add them earlier during cooking to bloom their flavors.

How spicy is the red pepper flake addition?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice preference, adding more for a bolder kick.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe is an elegant yet approachable dish perfect for celebrating anniversaries, holidays, or any dinner when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Lobster Pasta with Herb Parmesan Sauce Recipe enough for anyone wanting to bring a taste of indulgence into their kitchen without complicated steps. It strikes the perfect balance between comforting and luxurious, making you feel like a chef every time you serve it. Trust me, once you make it, this recipe will be on repeat for all your special meals and cozy nights in.