Best Easy Celebration Whole Lobster Recipe

Fill a large stockpot with enough water to cover both lobsters, add 2 tbsp kosher salt, and bring to a vigorous boil over high heat.

Add live lobsters headfirst into the boiling water, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes until shells turn bright red (8 minutes for the first pound, 2–3 extra minutes per additional pound).

While the lobsters cook, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, add paprika and black pepper, and whisk to combine. Keep warm, taking care not to brown the butter.

Remove lobsters from the pot using tongs; drain well and rest for 2 minutes to redistribute juices. Split each lobster lengthwise with a sharp chef knife for an elegant, festive presentation.

Serve lobsters on a large platter, drizzle with half the warm seasoned butter, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges, and serve remaining butter on the side for dipping.