Description
This Decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on a beloved comfort food. With tender pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, and sweet, succulent lobster meat, it’s the ultimate indulgence for any occasion. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something extraordinary.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the corkscrew pasta and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the water and milk, whisking until smooth.
- Cook the mixture for 5–7 minutes, until thickened and bubbling.
3. Add Seasonings
- Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
4. Incorporate the Cheese
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove the sauce from heat.
5. Combine Pasta, Lobster, and Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce.
- Add the chopped lobster meat and mix until evenly combined.
6. Prepare the Topping
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Transfer the pasta and lobster mixture to the dish.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- For an extra-crunchy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning).
8. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with additional lobster meat and sliced chives.
- Serve hot and enjoy the decadent flavors.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream.
- If fresh lobster is unavailable, frozen or canned lobster meat works well.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American