Learning how to cook frozen lobster tails is relatively easy. The hard part will be deciding which way to prepare them—in the oven, grill, air fryer, or pot. Whether planning a special event or to have on hand, you can order fresh lobster tails ahead of time online and then freeze them yourself. That way, you will know when the lobster tails are frozen – they will keep up to three months before the risk of freezer burn.
Lobster is a luxurious delicacy that is loved by seafood aficionados all over the world The sweet, succulent meat with its delicate briny flavor is heavenly when prepared properly. While fresh live lobster is ideal, frozen pre-cooked lobster can also be a convenient and tasty option when you’re unable to source fresh lobster.
Cooking frozen pre-cooked lobster requires some special considerations to ensure you end up with tender, flaky, moist meat instead of rubbery, chewy disappointment Follow this guide to learn the secrets of cooking frozen pre-cooked lobster to perfection every time
Thawing is Essential
The first crucial step is thawing the frozen pre-cooked lobster properly before cooking it. Never try to cook frozen lobster directly without thawing first. Attempting to boil, steam or grill frozen lobster will result in uneven cooking, with the outer sections overcooking while the inner parts remain icy cold.
Thawing gently brings the entire lobster up to an even temperature before cooking This allows the meat to cook gently and evenly for optimal texture and moisture
There are two recommended methods for safely thawing frozen pre-cooked lobster:
-
Refrigerator Thawing: Place the frozen lobster in a bowl or tray and leave it in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours or overnight until completely thawed. This is the best way as it thaws the lobster gradually at a safe temperature without cooking it.
-
Cold Water Thawing: If you need to thaw the lobster quicker, seal it in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until it’s thawed. This helps speed up the process while keeping the lobster chilled.
Avoid thawing frozen pre-cooked lobster at room temperature or in hot water, as this can cause bacterial growth. Never thaw in the microwave as this partially cooks the outer meat.
Choosing the Cooking Method
Once thawed, frozen pre-cooked lobster can be prepared using various cooking methods including boiling, steaming, baking or grilling:
-
Boiling is a simple, no-fuss way to cook thawed lobster. Use plenty of salted water and add lemon to infuse flavor. Cook for just 2-3 minutes until heated through.
-
Steaming helps retain moisture and preserve the delicate flavor of the lobster meat. Use a basket over boiling water and steam for 5-7 minutes until hot.
-
Baking at 375°F for 10-15 minutes is ideal if you want to stuff or glaze the lobster meat. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
-
Grilling imparts a lovely char while warming through. Cut the lobster in half lengthwise and grill cut-side down for just 2-3 minutes per side.
The key is to use much shorter cooking times compared to cooking raw live lobster. Since the frozen lobster is already cooked, it simply needs to be gently heated until hot and cooked through. Just 5-7 minutes is usually enough for a 1-1.5 lb lobster.
Handling the Cooked Lobster
Once cooked, handle the lobster meat gently to prevent it breaking into pieces. Carefully twist and pull the tails, claws and joints to remove the meat intact.
Split lengthwise and crack the shells before serving, or leave whole for diners to enjoy cracking the shells themselves. Provide lobster crackers, picks and bibs to minimize the mess.
Immediately remove the dark intestinal vein running through the tail along with any greyish tomalley (liver). Rinse briefly if needed. Pat dry with paper towels before serving.
Perfect Pairings and Serving
The delicious sweet lobster meat pairs wonderfully with:
- Melted lemon butter for dipping
- A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice
- Drawn butter infused with fresh herbs
- Tangy citrus aioli or creamy lobster sauce
- A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
Simple sides like crusty bread, roasted potatoes, coleslaw, steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad complement lobster perfectly without overshadowing its sublime flavor.
Chilled lobster served on a platter with lemon wedges makes an elegant yet fuss-free preparation. For a more dramatic presentation, fill the shells with the lobster meat and top with your favorite sauces.
Storage and Reheating
Cooked lobster meat will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Store in an airtight container, making sure the meat is completely submerged in the butter to prevent oxidation.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked meat for up to 3 months. Thaw again in the refrigerator before use.
You can reheat cooked lobster straight from the refrigerator in simmering water for 2-3 minutes until heated through. However, refrain from reheating cooked lobster meat more than once, as the texture quickly deteriorates.
Handy Tips for Success
Follow these handy tips when cooking frozen pre-cooked lobster:
- Inspect the thawed lobster and rinse well before cooking to remove any ice crystals.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 140°F-145°F when cooked.
- Don’t overcook as the meat can become rubbery and dry. Remove as soon as heated through.
- Prepare any sauces and sides first so the cooked lobster is served immediately.
- Crack the shells just before serving to prevent the meat drying out.
- Cooked lobster can be added to pasta, risottos, tacos, salads and more.
With proper thawing, gentle cooking, and careful handling, frozen pre-cooked lobster can be prepared to be almost as delicious as fresh cooked lobster. Follow these guidelines for foolproof results every time you cook this decadent seafood delicacy.
Why Buy Fresh Lobster (and Freeze Yourself!)
While frozen lobster tails offer convenience, nothing beats the taste and quality of fresh lobster. Fresh Maine lobster boasts a sweeter, more delicate flavor with tender and succulent meat. The texture of fresh lobster is unmatched, delivering that quintessential burst of ocean-fresh goodness in every bite. Freezing can alter the lobster’s natural taste and consistency. While frozen tails are a good option in a pinch, they often lack the full-bodied flavor profile that makes fresh lobster such a sought-after delicacy.
For those looking to experience the finest lobster, Klenda Seafood offers premium fresh Maine lobster straight from the cold waters of the Atlantic. Sourced daily and delivered with care, our fresh lobster provides an unparalleled dining experience. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or simply indulging in the best seafood Maine has to offer, shop with Klenda Seafood to enjoy lobster the way it’s meant to be: fresh and flavorful.
Easy Steps to Cook a Frozen Lobster Perfectly Every Time!
FAQ
How do you cook already cooked frozen lobster?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the lobster in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Make sure there is liquid in the dish (the lobster’s sauce, stock or butter). Heat in the oven until the lobster is warm. Take out of the oven and serve.
Do you thaw frozen cooked lobster?
When it’s time to thaw your frozen cooked lobster, place the freezer bag in a dish and move it to the fridge to defrost for 24 hours before serving. If you have more lobster meat than needed for your next meal, you can store it in the fridge for up to two days before eating or refreezing it.
How to cook frozen lobster without thawing?
Fill a large pot with enough water to submerge all the tails while boiling completely. Lobster tails will typically take 3-13 minutes to cook when boiled, with one lobster tail taking approximately 3 minutes and 6 lobster tails taking 13 minutes. This varies based on the tail size and quantity.
Can you microwave or already cooked lobster?
Conclusion: While microwaving can be a quick option for reheating lobster or crab, methods like steaming or boiling are generally recommended for better flavor and texture. If you choose to microwave, use lower power settings and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
How do you cook a frozen pre cooked lobster?
To cook a frozen pre-cooked lobster: 1. Thaw the lobster: Place the frozen lobster in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight or for at least 8-10 hours. 2. Prepare a large pot: Fill a large pot with water and add salt to it. Bring the water to a rolling boil. 3.
How do you thaw frozen lobster before cooking?
How should you thaw frozen lobster before cooking? Thaw frozen lobster 24 hours before cooking by placing it in a plastic bag and setting it in a bowl of water in the fridge. Then, boil enough water to cover the lobster, add 1 tbsp (17 g) of salt per 1 quart (1 l) of water to the pot, and place the lobster inside to simmer for 5 minutes.
Can you cook pre cooked lobster in the oven?
Just as with fresh lobster, you can steam, grill and even bake pre-cooked lobster in the oven. The difference is that the cooking times will be shorter. Steam pre-cooked frozen lobster after thawing it in a large pot over boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes.
How do you cook frozen lobster tails?
Follow these best practices for successfully cooking frozen lobster tails: Always thaw frozen lobster slowly and gently before cooking. Prepare tails by removing shells, de-veining, and drying well before cooking. Choose a high-heat cooking method for maximum flavor and browning. Don’t overcook! Lobster goes from tender to rubbery quickly.
How do you steam frozen lobster?
Steaming is another wonderful technique that preserves the lobster’s natural sweetness. Here’s how to steam a frozen lobster: Fill a pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket or a metal colander above the boiling water. Put the thawed lobster in the basket, making sure it’s not touching the water.
How do you cook a 1 pound lobster?
Fill a large pot about halfway with water and salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, and then use tongs to grab the lobsters, plunging each one headfirst into the water. Cover and allow the water to return to a boil. Once it is boiling again, reduce the heat to medium, and allow to cook for 7 minutes for a 1-pound lobster.