If you’re searching for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple seafood pasta, Buttered Lobster Pasta will absolutely steal your heart (and maybe even your guests’!). This dish brings together tender linguine, succulent lobster, and a silky butter sauce kissed with garlic, lemon, and a splash of white wine. It’s luxurious without being fussy, making it a perfect treat for date night or any evening you want to feel a little extra special. Trust me, once you try Buttered Lobster Pasta, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Buttered Lobster Pasta is all about letting top-notch ingredients shine. Each item plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the delicate lobster to the bright herbs and creamy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a thing:
- Linguine or Spaghetti (8 oz): Choose a long pasta that soaks up the buttery sauce and cradles the lobster bites just right.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): The star of the sauce, giving it richness and that irresistible glossy finish.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds warmth and depth, mingling beautifully with the lobster.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the lobster.
- Dry White Wine or Seafood Stock (1/2 cup): Brings acidity and a subtle complexity—use what you love to drink or have on hand!
- Lemon Juice (from 1/2 lemon): Brightens the sauce and balances the richness with a pop of citrus.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every layer.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of earthiness and balances the flavors.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup, optional): For a silkier, creamier version of the sauce—totally up to your mood!
- Fresh Chopped Parsley (1 tablespoon): Lends freshness and a burst of color.
- Chopped Chives (1 tablespoon, optional): For a subtle oniony note and extra vibrance.
- Cooked Lobster Meat (8 oz, claw, tail, or mix): The hero ingredient—use fresh or high-quality frozen for best results.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): A final flourish that melts into the sauce and adds a savory touch.
How to Make Buttered Lobster Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining—the starchy liquid is pure gold for loosening the sauce later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it starts to foam, add in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—keep a close eye so the garlic doesn’t brown, as that could turn it bitter.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine (or seafood stock) and squeeze in the lemon juice. As soon as the liquid hits the pan, use your spoon to scrape up any little browned bits from the bottom—those are packed with flavor! Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and concentrating all those delicious aromas.
Step 4: Add Cream, Seasonings, and Lobster
Now, stir in the salt, black pepper, and heavy cream if you’re craving an extra luxurious sauce. Gently nestle in the cooked lobster meat. Allow it to warm through in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes, making sure not to overcook so the lobster stays tender and juicy.
Step 5: Toss Pasta and Finish
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated and the lobster is evenly distributed. Splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce until it’s silky and clings perfectly to each strand. Scatter over the fresh parsley and chives, then serve your Buttered Lobster Pasta warm, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like.
How to Serve Buttered Lobster Pasta

Garnishes
Sprinkle your Buttered Lobster Pasta with a shower of fresh chopped parsley and maybe a few delicate chive slices for a pop of color and brightness. If you’re a cheese lover, a light dusting of grated Parmesan brings a subtle, nutty edge that finishes the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines on its own, but a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus makes a wonderful, fresh contrast to the rich, buttery sauce. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce—don’t let that goodness go to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-worthy moment, twirl the Buttered Lobster Pasta into neat nests on each plate and top with generous lobster pieces. Serve in shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side, or even pile it high on a platter for an impressive family-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Buttered Lobster Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The pasta will keep well for up to two days, though the lobster is best enjoyed sooner rather than later for peak tenderness.
Freezing
While pasta dishes can usually be frozen, lobster’s delicate texture can suffer in the freezer. If you must freeze, do so before adding the lobster, then gently fold in fresh lobster when reheating. For best results and flavor, enjoy your Buttered Lobster Pasta fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or cream to a skillet and warm the pasta gently over low heat, stirring frequently. This keeps the sauce from separating and helps bring back its silky consistency. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the lobster rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster meat for Buttered Lobster Pasta?
Absolutely! High-quality frozen lobster meat works well—just make sure it’s fully thawed and gently patted dry before adding to the sauce. It’s a great shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Linguine or spaghetti are both excellent choices, as their long strands hold onto the buttery sauce and tender lobster. You can experiment with fettuccine or even tagliatelle if you prefer a wider noodle.
How can I make Buttered Lobster Pasta creamier?
Simply add the optional heavy cream as suggested in the recipe, or increase the amount for an even richer, silkier sauce. You can also add a little extra butter for more decadence.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?
Yes! Seafood stock is a great alternative, lending depth and savoriness without the alcohol. You could also use chicken broth in a pinch, though seafood stock is best for enhancing the lobster flavor.
Can I prep any ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mince the garlic, chop the herbs, and even cook the lobster meat a few hours in advance. Just keep everything covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about sharing a bowl of Buttered Lobster Pasta—it’s elegant yet comforting, and every bite feels special. If you’ve been waiting for the right occasion to treat yourself or your loved ones, this is the dish to try. Dive in and savor every luxurious forkful!
Print
Buttered Lobster Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A decadent and easy-to-make Buttered Lobster Pasta featuring tender lobster meat tossed with linguine in a rich butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or seafood stock
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier version)
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
- 8 oz cooked lobster meat (claw, tail, or a mix)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Prepare sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the dry white wine or seafood stock along with the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Finish sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, and heavy cream if using for a richer texture. Add the cooked lobster meat to the skillet and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through without overcooking.
- Toss pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine well with the sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening to coat the noodles smoothly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and optional chives over the pasta. Serve the dish warm, offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh or high-quality frozen lobster for optimal flavor and texture.
- For a richer sauce, slightly increase the amount of butter and heavy cream used.
- This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
- Be careful not to overcook the lobster during warming to keep it tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 170mg