Here’s a recipe for Lobster Mac and Cheese — rich, creamy, and indulgent, perfect for a special meal.
Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the lobster:
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1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped (about 2 lobsters)
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1 tbsp butter
For the mac and cheese:
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1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
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4 cups whole milk (warmed)
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1 cup heavy cream
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 tbsp all-purpose flour
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3 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional, for extra creaminess)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
For the topping:
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp melted butter
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package says).
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Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the lobster:
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If lobster meat is cold or refrigerated, warm it gently with 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
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Set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce (béchamel base):
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In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to make a roux (it should be bubbly but not browned).
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Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, making sure to avoid lumps.
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Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently (about 5-7 minutes).
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Lower heat to low.
4. Add cheese and seasoning:
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Stir in the cheddar, Gruyère (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
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Stir until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Combine pasta, lobster, and sauce:
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Add the drained pasta and lobster meat to the cheese sauce.
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Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
6. Prepare the topping:
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In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Transfer the mac and cheese to a buttered baking dish (about 9×13 inches).
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Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve:
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Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped parsley.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips:
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Use fresh lobster if possible for the best flavor. Cooked lobster from the store works too.
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For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the cheese sauce before adding the cheese.
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If you want a bit of crunch inside, toss in some cooked, crispy bacon bits with the lobster.