Lobster Mac and Cheese is the ultimate combination of indulgence and comfort, blending the creamy richness of traditional mac and cheese with the luxurious taste of tender lobster. Perfect for special occasions or when you just want to elevate your comfort food game, this dish brings together flavorful cheeses, succulent lobster, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this Lobster Mac and Cheese will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 ½ cups water
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 pound corkscrew pasta (like cavatappi or cellentani)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups chopped cooked lobster meat (plus more for garnish)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chives, thinly sliced
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the corkscrew pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package directions (typically 7-9 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the cheese sauce. - Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the water and milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. - Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed in the sauce. - Incorporate the Cheese:
Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove the sauce from heat. - Combine Pasta, Lobster, and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Stir in the chopped lobster meat, making sure the lobster is evenly distributed throughout the dish. - Prepare the Topping:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the lobster mac and cheese mixture to the dish. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. - Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If desired, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra crunchy topping, but be careful not to burn it. - Garnish and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the Lobster Mac and Cheese from the oven. Garnish with extra lobster meat and thinly sliced chives for a fresh touch of flavor and color. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, creamy, and indulgent flavors.
Conclusion:
This Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent twist on a beloved classic, combining the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the luxurious taste of lobster. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked paprika creates a flavorful cheese sauce that perfectly complements the tender lobster meat. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and fresh chives, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers on both flavor and indulgence.