Lobster Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy, Luxury Comfort in a Bowl
When Mac and Cheese Gets Fancy Without Losing Its Soul
Lobster Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. It takes everything you love about classic mac—creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, buttery topping—and levels it all the way up with chunks of juicy, sweet lobster. The result is rich, velvety, and indulgent, with every bite delivering bold flavor, creamy texture, and luxurious seafood goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a random Tuesday, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that tastes like pure gold in casserole form.
Ingredients
½ lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta, 1½ cups cooked lobster meat (claw and tail, chopped), 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Fontina cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, ½ tsp smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional), juice from half a lemon (optional)
Topping
1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, pinch of smoked paprika
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente, drain, and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Add Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Gently fold in cooked pasta and lobster meat. Taste and adjust seasoning. Squeeze in lemon juice if using for brightness. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness if desired. Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Lobster Mac
Use freshly cooked or high-quality frozen lobster for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta—it will finish cooking in the oven. For a smokier taste, use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of cayenne. Want it extra creamy? Add an extra splash of cream before baking. Leftovers reheat well with a bit of milk stirred in.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
Add crispy bacon for smoky depth. Stir in caramelized onions or roasted garlic for sweetness. Make it spicy with hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Swap lobster for crab, shrimp, or a seafood medley.
Final Thoughts
Lobster Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food flex—decadent, cheesy, and overflowing with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug wrapped in luxury. Whether you serve it at holidays, dinner parties, or quiet nights in, it never fails to impress.
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