Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Poached Lobster is a rich, delicate seafood dish featuring tender lobster meat gently cooked in a silky butter bath. This technique ensures perfectly soft, juicy lobster infused with buttery richness and aromatic herbs, making it a restaurant-quality dish at home.
What is Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Poached Lobster?
Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Poached Lobster is a gentle cooking method where lobster meat is slowly poached in melted butter at a low temperature. This prevents the lobster from becoming tough or chewy while enhancing its natural sweetness and luxurious texture.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes
- Gordon Ramsay Lamb Shank
- Gordon Ramsay Lamb Cutlets
- Gordon Ramsay Brussels Sprouts
- Gordon Ramsay Beef Wellington Bites
Why You’ll Love Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- Tender and juicy texture – The low-heat poaching method prevents toughness.
- Rich buttery flavor – The lobster absorbs flavors from butter, garlic, and herbs.
- Elegant yet simple – A gourmet dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.
- No overcooking – Slow poaching ensures perfectly cooked lobster every time.
- Versatile serving options – Pair with pasta, risotto, or fresh greens.
Ingredients Needed for Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- 2 lobster tails (or whole lobsters, shells removed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tbsp water (to help emulsify the butter)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh tarragon (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
Prepare the Lobster:
- Remove lobster meat – Carefully remove the lobster meat from the shells, keeping it intact.
- Season lightly – Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Make the Butter Poaching Liquid:
- Melt butter gently – In a small saucepan over low heat, add water and butter cubes, stirring to create an emulsified butter sauce.
- Infuse with aromatics – Add garlic, thyme, and tarragon for extra flavor.
Poach the Lobster:
- Keep heat low – The butter should be warm but not bubbling (around 160-180°F or 70-80°C).
- Gently add lobster – Submerge the lobster meat in the butter and poach for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Check doneness – The lobster is ready when it turns opaque and slightly firm, but still tender.
Finish and Serve:
- Add lemon juice – Just before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Plate and enjoy – Serve warm with extra melted butter or over pasta, risotto, or salad.

Best Sides to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- Garlic butter asparagus – Light and fresh.
- Creamy truffle risotto – A luxurious pairing.
- Lemon herb pasta – Bright and citrusy.
- Steamed green beans – A simple, crisp contrast.
- Buttery mashed potatoes – Rich and comforting.
Pro Tips for the Best Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- Use high-quality butter – The flavor of butter is key to the dish.
- Keep the butter at a low temperature – Do not let it boil or bubble.
- Turn the lobster gently – Ensure even poaching without overcooking.
- Use fresh herbs – Enhances the aroma and taste of the butter.
- Let the lobster rest briefly before serving – Helps absorb flavors fully.
Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Use brown butter – Adds a nutty, deep flavor to the dish.
- Try a citrus twist – Use orange zest and juice for a sweeter contrast.
- Serve with a champagne sauce – A creamy white wine or champagne reduction elevates the flavor.
- Pair with truffle butter – Enhances the richness with an earthy touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster
- Store in an airtight container – Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in warm butter – Warm gently in melted butter over low heat for the best texture.
- Avoid microwaving – This can make the lobster rubbery.
- Freeze raw lobster tails, not cooked – Lobster tastes best when poached fresh.
FAQs
What is the ideal temperature for butter-poaching lobster?
The butter should be kept between 160-180°F (70-80°C). Keeping the temperature low prevents the butter from boiling and ensures the lobster stays tender and juicy.
How do you keep butter from separating when poaching lobster?
Adding a small amount of water (1 tbsp) or whisking constantly while melting the butter helps emulsify it, preventing separation and creating a smooth poaching liquid.
How do you know when butter-poached lobster is done?
The lobster is cooked when it turns opaque, slightly firm, and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). It should still be tender and not rubbery.
Can I use frozen lobster tails for butter poaching?
Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before poaching to prevent excess water from affecting the butter’s texture.
Final Thoughts
Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Poached Lobster is a luxurious yet simple dish, delivering incredibly tender, juicy lobster infused with rich butter and herbs. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet seafood dinner, this recipe ensures flawless results every time. Try it today and enjoy a fine dining experience at home!
PrintGordon Ramsay Butter Poached Lobster – Tender, Juicy & Luxurious
Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Poached Lobster is a gentle cooking method where lobster meat is slowly poached in melted butter at a low temperature. This prevents the lobster from becoming tough or chewy while enhancing its natural sweetness and luxurious texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 7
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails (or whole lobsters, shells removed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tbsp water (to help emulsify the butter)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 sprig of fresh tarragon (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Lobster:
- Remove lobster meat – Carefully remove the lobster meat from the shells, keeping it intact.
- Season lightly – Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Make the Butter Poaching Liquid:
- Melt butter gently – In a small saucepan over low heat, add water and butter cubes, stirring to create an emulsified butter sauce.
- Infuse with aromatics – Add garlic, thyme, and tarragon for extra flavor.
Poach the Lobster:
- Keep heat low – The butter should be warm but not bubbling (around 160-180°F or 70-80°C).
- Gently add lobster – Submerge the lobster meat in the butter and poach for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Check doneness – The lobster is ready when it turns opaque and slightly firm, but still tender.
Finish and Serve:
- Add lemon juice – Just before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Plate and enjoy – Serve warm with extra melted butter or over pasta, risotto, or salad.