simple lobster mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple lobster mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple lobster mac and cheese recipe with you. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that my family will love. This recipe is a staple in our household and has been for years.

It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy macaroni, succulent lobster meat, and a rich cheese sauce is absolute perfection. I like to think of this dish as a hug in a bowl – it’s warm, comforting, and makes everyone feel loved.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal prep time. My kids adore it when I serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad, making it a well-rounded meal that we all enjoy together. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family and has become a treasured tradition for us.

My grandmother used to make it all the time when I was growing up, and now I continue the tradition with my own children. The secret to this recipe lies in its simplicity – the quality of the ingredients is what truly makes it shine. Freshly cooked pasta, chunks of tender lobster meat, and a perfectly balanced cheese sauce come together to create something truly special.

I’ve experimented with various cheeses over the years, but this particular combination is what works best for me. It’s not too rich or overpowering, but rather a perfect balance of flavors that complement each other beautifully.

Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 1195 votes

This recipe combines tender lobster meat with creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It is a luxurious yet simple dish that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a special dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Topping

8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

For the Lobster

8 oz cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp unsalted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
5Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and set aside for the topping.
6In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
7Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbling.
8Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
9Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
10Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth.
11Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika, then remove from heat.
12In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
13Add the chopped lobster meat and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, just until heated through and fragrant.
14Remove from heat.
15In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and sautéed lobster.
16Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
17Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
18Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
20Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Colander
9×13 inch baking dish
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 38g💛Saturated Fat: 22g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties. You can substitute the lobster with cooked shrimp or crab if desired. To save time, use pre-cooked lobster meat from the seafood counter.

Watch Video Of How Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese Works

This simple lobster mac and cheese recipe has become an integral part of our family gatherings over the years – we love serving it at holiday meals or even just as an impromptu weeknight dinner when we need something comforting and delicious.

One thing I appreciate about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as-is or get creative with different toppings such as crispy bacon bits or chopped chives on top.

It also reheats beautifully if you want to make extra batches ahead of time (just thaw them first).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lobster Mac and Cheese

1. What type of lobster should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works best with chunks of succulent lobster meat – either claw or body meat will do.

2. Can I substitute other types of seafood for the lobster?

While you can use other types of seafood such as shrimp or scallops in place of the lobster, keep in mind that they will change the flavor profile of the dish.

3. How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This simple lobster mac and cheese recipe comes together in under 30 minutes – just cook your pasta according to package instructions, prepare your cheese sauce while it’s cooking, then combine everything with chunks of lobster meat.

4. Can I store leftovers in the fridge or freezer?

This dish is best consumed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

(Note: Reheating times may vary depending on individual appliances)

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