Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe: Uplifting Comfort Food
Lobster mac and cheese recipe combines two beloved ingredients into one decadent dish. High class meets down home in this sumptuous blend of creamy cheese, tender lobster, and perfectly cooked pasta. This family-style casserole is not only delicious but also a perfect choice for special occasions or a fancy weeknight dinner.
Yield and Cooking Process
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 – 4 quart casserole
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 1 (2 pound) lobster, split
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 10 black peppercorns
- 2 cups milk
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pound shredded Gruyere cheese
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Romano cheese
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
Instructions for Making Lobster Mac and Cheese
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the onion, garlic, and shallot, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the 10 black peppercorns and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. Set this mixture aside.
- Next, in a saucepan, heat the milk just until it’s about to boil. Do not let it boil. Set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly—approximately 3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the heated milk. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere, Cheddar cheese, and Romano cheeses until fully melted and combined. Season with kosher salt and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce, onion mixture, and macaroni in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold in the lobster meat.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 4-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the top with panko bread crumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the top is bubbly and golden brown, around 25 to 30 minutes. Let it rest before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe
This lobster mac and cheese recipe is both luxurious and comforting, making it a perfect main dish for any occasion. The blend of Gruyere, Cheddar, and Romano cheeses creates an irresistibly creamy sauce, while the lobster adds a touch of elegance. Moreover, the panko topping gives a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Healthier Cooking Option (Optional)
For a lighter version, consider using whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta and reducing the amount of cheese slightly. You can also substitute the panko with crushed whole-grain cereal. Steaming the lobster instead of boiling may retain more nutrients, and opting for low-fat milk instead of whole milk can cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.
Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that this lobster mac and cheese recipe brings to your table. It’s the perfect combination of high-class dining and homestyle comfort.