Cooking lobster can seem intimidating. Boiling a large pot of water, managing different cook times for different parts of the lobster, and figuring out when it’s done takes work. Fortunately, cooking lobster in an air fryer makes enjoying this delicious seafood much easier.

With an air fryer, you don’t have to worry about boiling water or checking different cook times. You simply set the temperature, let it preheat, add your lobster, and enjoy perfect results!

In this simple guide, you’ll learn how to cook whole lobster, lobster tails, and lobster meat in an air fryer. With the right techniques and seasonings, your air fried lobster will turn out incredibly tender and full of flavor. Let’s get started!

Prep The Lobster For The Air Fryer

Before you can cook your lobster in the air fryer, you need to prepare it properly. Here are tips for prepping whole lobster, tails, and lobster meat:

For Whole Lobster

• Kill the live lobster humanely by plunging a knife into the body right behind the eyes. This severs the central nervous system for a quick death.
• Twist off the claws and separate the tail from the body.
• Using kitchen shears, cut straight down the center of the tail lengthwise and remove the digestive tract. Rinse thoroughly.
• Use a mallet to crack the claws and knuckles. This allows heat to penetrate faster.

For Lobster Tails

• Twist the tails away from the body. Use shears to cut through the bottom shell lengthwise to butterfly the tail.
• Grab the vein running through the tail and gently pull to remove it.
• Rinse the tail and pat it completely dry.

For Lobster Meat

• Ensure shelled lobster meat is cleaned, rinsed, and patted dry. Cut larger pieces into 1 1⁄2 to 2-inch chunks.

Season The Lobster For Maximum Flavor

Lobster has a delicate, sweet flavor that pairs well with lemon, garlic, herbs, and butter. Consider seasoning your lobster with:

• Melted butter – brush on lobster before and after cooking
• Lemon juice and zest
• Minced garlic
• Dried parsley, oregano, basil, or tarragon
• Paprika or cayenne for heat
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or avocado oil

Mix up a quick compound butter by blending softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. Chill it before smearing it on your lobster. The options are endless for infusing flavor!

Cook Times And Temperatures For Lobster In An Air Fryer

Cooking lobster in an air fryer is quick and easy. Follow these guidelines for perfect results every time.

For Whole Lobster

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F
• Cook 9-11 minutes per 1 pound
• Internal temperature should reach 140°F

For Lobster Tails

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F
• Cook 4-6 minutes per 1 pound
• Internal temperature should reach 140°F

For Lobster Meat

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F
• Cook 2-4 minutes until heated through

Check your lobster’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. If needed, cook 1-2 minutes longer and recheck. Avoid overcooking as lobster can become rubbery.

Tips For The Best Air Fried Lobster

Follow these simple tips and tricks for lobster cooked perfectly in your air fryer:

• Brush lobster meat with olive oil or melted butter before cooking. This prevents it from drying out.
• When cooking whole lobster or tails, place them on a baking sheet or foil sling. This makes them easier to remove.
• Baste lobster with butter or oil halfway through cooking for added moisture and flavor.
• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the lobster to accurately check doneness.
• Let the lobster rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking before eating. This allows juices to redistribute.
• Add wood chips or planks to infuse a light smoke flavor during cooking.
• mist lobster with seafood seasoning or Cajun spice before air frying for more flavor without added calories.

Serve Up Your Air Fried Lobster With Flair

Now comes the best part – eating! When serving your freshly air fried lobster, consider these delicious additions:

• Serve with clarified butter, lemon wedges, or aioli for dipping.
• Pair with classic sides like cornbread, coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or corn on the cob.
• Stuff lobster meat into tacos, salads, or sliders for fun appetizers.
• Chop lobster meat and combine with mayo, lemon, and celery for an easy lobster salad.
• Top pasta or risotto with chunks of lobster meat for a gourmet entrée.
• Keep it classic with lobster rolls served on grilled hot dog buns with lettuce and mayo.

However you choose to serve it up, air fried lobster is sure to be a big hit! Enjoy this quick and delicious preparation for seafood to impress your family and friends.

FAQs About Cooking Lobster In An Air Fryer

If you’re new to making lobster in an air fryer, chances are you have some questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions:

Is An Air Fryer A Good Way To Cook Lobster?

Absolutely! An air fryer circulates hot air around food to cook it fast and evenly. Lobster cooked in an air fryer turns out tender and moist with a lightly crisped exterior. It’s much easier and less messy than boiling or grilling.

Can You Cook Frozen Lobster In An Air Fryer?

You can cook frozen lobster tails or meat in an air fryer with excellent results. Thaw the lobster first, then pat it completely dry before seasoning and cooking according to the directions in this guide. Add 1-2 minutes to the cook time if starting from frozen.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Lobster In An Air Fryer?

Cooking times range from just 2-4 minutes for chopped lobster meat up to 9-11 minutes per pound for a whole lobster. Smaller tails take about 4-6 minutes per pound. Always check internal temperature to ensure doneness.

What Temperature Should You Cook Lobster At In An Air Fryer?

Preheat your air fryer and cook lobster at a steady 400°F. This high heat quickly sears the outside while gently cooking the interior. Monitor thickness and adjust cook times as needed.

Can You Cook A Lobster Tail Without Butter In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook plain lobster tails with no butter or oil in an air fryer. The results may not be quite as moist, so baste with broth or water midway through cooking if not using butter or oil.

How Do You Know When Lobster Is Done In An Air Fryer?

Check lobster’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to test doneness. Whole lobster and tails are done at 140°F. The meat will be opaque and flaky when fully cooked. If unsure, it’s better to risk undercooking rather than overcooking.

What Is The Best Oil To Fry Lobster In An Air Fryer?

For air frying, light oils work best. Melted butter, olive oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil are all excellent choices. Avoid heavy oils like canola or vegetable oil that can impede air circulation. Brush oil lightly rather than heavily coating.

Conclusion

Cooking fresh lobster has never been easier thanks to air fryers. With the right prep, seasonings, and cooking guidelines, you can enjoy restaurant-quality seafood from the comfort of home. Master these simple steps for tender, juicy, flavorful lobster straight from your air fryer anytime. Whether indulging in surf and turf or stuffing lobster in summer rolls, this versatile ingredient shines when air fried. Surprise your family with this impressive dish!