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Decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese

lobster mac and cheese recipe - featured image

A rich and creamy lobster mac and cheese that combines tender pasta, succulent lobster, and a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, topped with a golden crunchy panko crust. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (450 g)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups cooked lobster meat (150200 g), chopped
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 g)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30 g)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 g)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (about 100 g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter your baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  4. Gradually whisk in whole milk, stirring continuously. Cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Add minced garlic and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold cooked macaroni and chopped lobster meat into the cheese sauce.
  8. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Optionally, dot with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and sauce is bubbling.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente is best. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting quality. Fold lobster gently to keep chunks intact. Toss panko in melted butter before topping for extra crispiness. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly. Let dish rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster mac and cheese, holiday side dish, Christmas recipe, creamy mac and cheese, lobster recipe, cheesy pasta, luxe side dish