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–+ servings

Lobster Mac and Cheese

Rich, creamy mac and cheese loaded with tender lobster and a crunchy panko–Parmesan topping. A cozy, special-occasion comfort dish.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1.25 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter for sauce
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1.5 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese, grated divided
  • 1.5 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp sweet paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted for topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Boil macaroni in well-salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Stir topping: combine melted butter with panko and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Set aside.
  • Make the roux: melt 3 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 2 minutes.
  • Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Simmer, whisking, until thickened, 4 to 6 minutes.
  • Season the sauce with Dijon, garlic, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  • Take off heat. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and 1/2 cup Parmesan until melted and silky.
  • Fold in lemon zest and lobster, then gently mix in the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Spread into the baking dish. Top evenly with the buttered panko and any remaining Parmesan.
  • Bake 18 to 22 minutes, until bubbling and golden. Rest 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley.

Notes

Variation: Add a pinch of truffle salt or drizzle of truffle oil before serving. Or swap Gruyère for Fontina for extra melt. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat covered with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Lobster Mac and Cheese flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.