Macaroni and Cheese with Lobster is the ultimate comfort food with a luxurious twist. Creamy, cheesy pasta pairs with tender chunks of succulent lobster, creating a dish that’s indulgent, flavorful, and unforgettable. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dinner at home, this recipe combines the rich, buttery taste of lobster with a blend of cheeses to elevate a classic favorite into a gourmet experience. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Lobster:
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for reheating the lobster)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Lobster and Pasta: If desired, gently sauté the lobster meat in butter to warm it through. Add the cooked pasta and lobster to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color, if desired.
Macaroni and Cheese with Lobster is a rich, decadent dish that transforms a humble classic into a sophisticated treat, perfect for any seafood lover!
