Description
Rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, Lobster Mac and Cheese takes comfort food to the next level. Tender chunks of buttery lobster, corkscrew pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce are topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, creating a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and delight.
Ingredients
- Butter (divided use): 4 tablespoons
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Water: 2 ½ cups
- Whole milk: 4 cups
- Corkscrew pasta (e.g., cavatappi): 1 pound
- Salt: ¾ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ¼ teaspoon
- Onion powder: ¼ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 4 cups
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 1 cup
- Lobster meat (cooked, chopped): 1 ½ cups, plus more for garnish
- Panko breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Chives (thinly sliced): 2 tablespoons
- Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring 2 ½ cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the corkscrew pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and water, whisking to ensure no lumps form.
- Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
- Add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Lobster:
- Add the cooked pasta and chopped lobster meat to the cheese sauce.
- Gently stir to coat the pasta and lobster evenly.
4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl.
- Stir in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
5. Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Transfer the lobster mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with additional chopped lobster meat and sliced chives.
- Serve hot and enjoy the luxurious flavors!
Notes
- Lobster Tips: Use freshly cooked lobster meat for the best flavor, or opt for pre-cooked lobster for convenience.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute Gruyère, Fontina, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Broccoli, peas, or spinach can be added for extra nutrients and color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American