lobster Mac and cheese

Here’s a rich and decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese recipe — perfect for a special dinner, holiday, or when you want to impress a crowd with comfort food elevated to gourmet status.

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🦞 Lobster Mac and Cheese

🕒 Prep Time: 25 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Serves: 6–8

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)

• Salt for the pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3½ cups whole milk (warm)

• 1 cup heavy cream (warm)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Gruyère (or Swiss cheese)

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Lobster:

• 1½ to 2 cups cooked lobster meat (claw, knuckle, or tail), chopped

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

• 1 tbsp butter (to sauté lobster lightly)

Topping (Optional but delicious):

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté lobster (optional step for extra flavor):
   In a small pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped lobster and a squeeze of lemon juice. Sauté for 1–2 minutes to warm and infuse flavor. Set aside.

3. Make the roux and sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add warm milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (5–7 minutes).

4. Add cheese and seasonings:
   Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.

5. Combine:
   Stir pasta and lobster into the cheese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Optional topping and bake:
   Pour mixture into a buttered 9×13″ baking dish. In a bowl, mix panko, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

7. Garnish and serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot with a crisp salad or garlic bread.

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✅ Tips:

• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.

• You can use pre-cooked or frozen lobster; thaw completely before adding.

• Want it extra decadent? Add a drizzle of truffle oil before baking.

Would you like a crockpot version or a version for a large group?