How Long to Cook Split Cold-Water Lobster Tails (5–7 oz) in the grill
Specification: 5–7 oz tails, split lengthwise through the shell, meat lifted onto the shell (butterflied)
3-Step Execution Protocol
Preheat grill to Medium-high direct, 500°F (260°C) grate. Clean and oil grates. Prepare split cold-water lobster tails (5–7 oz) (5–7 oz tails, split lengthwise through the shell, meat lifted onto the shell (butterflied)).
Cook for 8–10 mins (shell-down first, meat-down last). Flip at the 5-minute mark for even browning.
Meat has gone from translucent-grey to opaque-white and has pulled slightly away from the edges of the shell. Confirm internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) — meat turns opaque all the way through. Rest for 2 minutes before serving.
FDA safe cooking temperature for shellfish is 145°F flesh-opaque; the 140°F pull with a short rest is the standard chef target for lobster tails per Cook's Illustrated and aligns with USDA seafood guidance to cook "until flesh is pearly and opaque".