How to Steam a Lobster

Master the art of preparing restaurant-quality seafood at home with this step-by-step guide on how to steam a lobster. This simple and foolproof recipe transforms fresh, live lobster into tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked meat, ready to be savored with melted butter and a squeeze of zesty lemon. By steaming the lobster, you lock in its natural sweetness and succulent texture while avoiding the risk of overcooking. With just three essential ingredients—water, salt, and a live lobster—plus optional accompaniments of butter and lemon, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for any special occasion or indulgent dinner. Impress your guests or treat yourself to a luxurious seafood feast with this no-fail technique!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:12 mins

Total Time:22 mins

Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 1 lobster (approximately 1.5 pounds) Live lobster
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tablespoon Salt
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (optional, for serving)
• 2 lemons Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with 2 cups of water and add 1 tablespoon of salt.

Step 2

Place a steaming rack or basket in the pot, ensuring it sits above the water level.

Step 3

Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Step 4

Using tongs, carefully place the live lobster on the steaming rack, shell-side up, making sure its tail doesn't touch the boiling water.

Step 5

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam.

Step 6

Steam the lobster for approximately 10-12 minutes for a 1.5-pound lobster, adding an additional 2 minutes for each additional half-pound. The lobster is done when the shell turns bright red and the tail curls tightly.

Step 7

Remove the lobster carefully from the pot using tongs and let it rest on a plate for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.

Step 8

Serve the steamed lobster with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1264.8 grams (1264.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	945

Total Fat 52.90g	68%
Saturated Fat 31.00g	155%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 615mg	205%
Sodium 9976mg	434%
Total Carbohydrate 2.60g	1%
Dietary Fiber 0.80g	3%
Total Sugars 0.80g
Protein 112.80g	226%

Vitamin D 37IU	183%
Calcium 698mg	54%
Iron 2mg	12%
Potassium 1616mg	34%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.8%

Protein: 48.1%

Carbs: 1.1%