How Long to Boil a Lobster for Perfect Results Every Time

Cooking lobster can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow a few basic guidelines. The most important factor is knowing how long to boil a lobster based on its size. With the right timing you’ll end up with tender juicy meat without overcooking.

Here’s a complete guide to boiling lobster perfectly, including tips for prep, cooking times, and serving ideas. Let’s get cooking!

Choosing Your Lobsters

When selecting live lobsters at the market, look for ones that are active and alert with bright coloration. Avoid any with cracks in their shells missing limbs or dark spots. Check the overall weight, as larger lobsters will need a longer boil time.

The most common sizes are

• Chicken (1 to 1.25 lbs)
• Quarter (1.25 to 1.5 lbs)
• Half (1.5 to 1.75 lbs)
• Three quarter (1.75 to 2 lbs)
• Jumbo (2 to 2.5 lbs)
• Grande (2.5 to 3 lbs)

In general, 1.5 pound lobsters are ideal for most eaters. Lobsters over 3 pounds are rare.

Pre-Boil Preparation

Before cooking, store lobsters in the fridge inside a sturdy bag. Don’t keep them in water, as they can survive only 24-36 hours out of seawater.

To sedate the lobster before boiling, place it in the freezer for 30 minutes. This slows movement during cooking for a more humane approach.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. The salt seasons the meat. Use at least 4 quarts of water per 1.5 pounds of lobster.

Boiling Times Per Lobster Size

Once boiling, add lobsters head-first and start timing immediately. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Here are the target boil times by weight:

• 1 pound: 5 minutes
• 1.25 pounds: 7 minutes
• 1.5 pounds: 8 minutes
• 1.75 pounds: 9 minutes
• 2 pounds: 10 minutes
• 2.5 pounds: 12 minutes
• 3 pounds: 15 minutes

For each additional 0.5 pounds, add 2 minutes. Stir lobsters halfway through for even cooking. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Checking Doneness

Lobsters turn bright red when done, but larger ones may be undercooked at that point. Check doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the tail. It should reach 135°F.

Also separate the underside of the tail. The meat should be opaque throughout with no translucent parts. If needed, continue boiling in 1 minute increments until fully cooked.

Serving Perfectly Cooked Lobster

Once boiled, let lobsters sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the meat to re-absorb moisture from the shell.

Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, and small forks for pulling out the meat. Start by twisting off the claws, legs, and tail. Crack the shells and extract the sweet lobster meat.

Compliment your lobster with corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Dip the meat in butter or just enjoy that sweet lobster flavor on its own.

More Lobster Cooking Methods

Beyond boiling, lobsters can also be steamed or grilled:

• Steaming: Add a couple inches of water to a pot with a steaming rack. Steam 8-10 minutes per pound.

• Grilling: Split lobsters and brush with oil. Grill meat-side down for 4-5 minutes per pound.