Lobster Mac and Cheese

There’s something magical about making Lobster Mac and Cheese on a warm summer evening. Picture this: the sun is setting, and the air is filled with laughter as friends and family gather around the table. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was for a small gathering on the patio, and everyone couldn’t get enough of that creamy, cheesy goodness with the sweet chunks of lobster. The aroma wafting through the air was irresistible, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. I had always loved mac and cheese, but adding lobster took it to a whole new level. It became the star of the show, and I realized that this dish was more than just comfort food; it was a way to share love and joy.

Ingredients to Make Lobster Mac and Cheese

The ingredients for Lobster Mac and Cheese come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The star of the show, lobster, pairs perfectly with a blend of rich cheeses and hearty pasta. Each ingredient has a role to play in this comforting dish, ensuring every bite is a balanced explosion of flavor.

• 1 pound macaroni, such as elbows, shells, or orecchiette – This serves as the base of the dish, offering a perfectly chewy texture that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste – This adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the other cheeses.
• 2 cups cooked and diced lobster meat – The precious pieces of lobster bring a touch of luxury to this dish, making it rich and delightful.
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – It provides a subtle heat and aromatic quality that enhances the flavors.
• Sea salt, to taste – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
• ½ cup sliced shallots – These add a mild onion flavor, bringing depth to the dish without being overpowering.
• ¾ cup chopped fresh chives – A burst of freshness and color, chives elevate the taste profile with a mild, herbal flavor.
• ½ pound unsalted butter (1 cup) – This is the foundation of the cheese sauce, giving it a rich, buttery flavor.
• 3 cups heavy cream, divided – This creamy element is what makes the sauce luscious and velvety.
• 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese – Adds a unique flavor profile with a sharpness that complements the dish.
• 1 cup cubed Swiss cheese – Contributes a smooth texture and nutty flavor that balances out the other cheeses.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – This cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture that’s irresistible.
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese – A classic choice for mac and cheese, it brings a sharp tanginess that rounds out the flavors.
• Bread crumbs, to taste – Used as a topping, these provide a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy interior.

Instructions for Lobster Mac and Cheese

Making Lobster Mac and Cheese is a joyous experience that will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting masterpiece. Remember, each step is essential for achieving the perfect creamy texture and delectable flavor.

1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. In the same pot, fit a metal mixing bowl over it to create a double boiler. Add the Asiago, Swiss, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar cheeses along with 1-1/2 cups of the heavy cream. Stir frequently to melt the cheeses, ensuring it doesn’t burn. The mixture should become velvety and a bit loose, similar to a rich cheese soup.
3. If the cheese mixture seems too stringy or clumpy, don’t hesitate to add some of the remaining cream. You want a smooth and creamy consistency that will coat the macaroni perfectly.
4. While the cheese is melting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This will prepare it for the final baking stage, which gives the top that lovely golden brown finish.
5. In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add the chives, shallots, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the shallots turn tender and translucent.
6. Next, add the cooked and diced lobster meat to the pan. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, and the lobster to warm up.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lobster mixture with the drained pasta. Stir well to incorporate everything, and then slowly add the cheese mixture until you reach your desired creaminess.
8. Transfer the entire mixture to an oven-safe dish. Make sure to spread it evenly for consistent baking.
9. Top with Parmesan cheese and a generous layer of bread crumbs. This will create a beautiful, crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the top is browned and the center is warm and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Things Worth Knowing

Tips and Tricks about Lobster Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect Lobster Mac and Cheese can be an adventure! Here are some tips to help you create a dish that everyone will love:

• Storage: Store any leftover Lobster Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze the mac and cheese before baking it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Pairing: Serve your Lobster Mac and Cheese with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add other seafood or vegetables, like shrimp or spinach, to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
• Serving Size: This dish is rich and filling, so consider serving smaller portions alongside other sides for a complete meal.
• Extra Creaminess: For a more indulgent dish, add a little extra cream or butter when mixing the cheese sauce.

Perfect Pairings for Lobster Mac and Cheese

Serving Lobster Mac and Cheese can be just as exciting as making it. Here are some delightful pairings to complement your dish:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm garlic bread for those who want an extra indulgent touch.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrition to the meal.
• Lunch or Dinner: This dish works beautifully for both lunch and dinner, making it versatile for any occasion.
• Special Occasions: Whether it’s a family gathering or a summer BBQ, Lobster Mac and Cheese is sure to impress your guests.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water can elevate your dining experience, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lobster Mac and Cheese is a special dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness and the luxurious touch of lobster. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on a cozy night in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

Lobster Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Lobster Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and succulent lobster for a dish that's hard to resist. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 640 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound macaroni such as elbows, shells, or orecchiette
• to taste Grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups cooked and diced lobster meat
• to taste Freshly cracked black pepper
• to taste Sea salt
• ½ cup sliced shallots
• ¾ cup chopped fresh chives
• ½ pound unsalted butter (1 cup)
• 3 cups heavy cream divided
• 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese
• 1 cup cubed Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• to taste Bread crumbs

Instructions

 

• Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
• In the same pot, fit a metal mixing bowl over it to create a double boiler. Add the Asiago, Swiss, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar cheeses along with 1-1/2 cups of the heavy cream. Stir frequently to melt the cheeses, ensuring it doesn’t burn. The mixture should become velvety and a bit loose, similar to a rich cheese soup.
• If the cheese mixture seems too stringy or clumpy, don’t hesitate to add some of the remaining cream. You want a smooth and creamy consistency that will coat the macaroni perfectly.
• While the cheese is melting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This will prepare it for the final baking stage, which gives the top that lovely golden brown finish.
• In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add the chives, shallots, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the shallots turn tender and translucent.
• Next, add the cooked and diced lobster meat to the pan. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, and the lobster to warm up.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the lobster mixture with the drained pasta. Stir well to incorporate everything, and then slowly add the cheese mixture until you reach your desired creaminess.
• Transfer the entire mixture to an oven-safe dish. Make sure to spread it evenly for consistent baking.
• Top with Parmesan cheese and a generous layer of bread crumbs. This will create a beautiful, crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the top is browned and the center is warm and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Notes

• Tip: Labrador Lounge's recipe calls for 3 cups of heavy cream total. Start with 1-1/2 cups and add additional cream until the desired sauce consistency is reached.

Keyword Comfort Food Recipe, Easy Lobster Dish, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Seafood Pasta

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.