Description
This Decadent Buttery Lobster Mac & Cheese is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort dish, combining creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce with tender lobster meat and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for an indulgent weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe layers rich flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Seafood
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Topping and Seasonings
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Garlic powder to taste
- Paprika to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain well and set aside to prepare the sauce.
- Make Roux: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux and remove the raw flour taste.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Combine Lobster and Season: Gently mix in the cooked lobster meat along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated in the cheese sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the lobster mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Use fresh or fully cooked lobster meat for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasonings according to preference, adding more garlic powder or paprika for a spicier kick.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- For a richer dish, consider stirring in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the cheese sauce.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow it to set slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
