Lobster Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fusion of indulgence and comfort, marrying the creamy richness of classic mac and cheese with the luxurious flavor of tender lobster. Ideal for special occasions or when you want to elevate your comfort food game, this dish combines flavorful cheeses, succulent lobster, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a truly mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this Lobster Mac and Cheese will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 2 ½ cups water
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1 pound corkscrew pasta (such as cavatappi or cellentani)
– ¾ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 ½ cups chopped cooked lobster meat (plus extra for garnish)
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons chives, thinly sliced
– Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corkscrew pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, continuously stirring to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the water and milk, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add the Seasonings:**
– Mix in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
4. **Incorporate the Cheese:**
– Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Remove from heat.
5. **Combine Pasta, Lobster, and Sauce:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Gently fold in the chopped lobster meat until evenly mixed.
6. **Prepare the Topping:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the lobster mac and cheese mixture into the dish. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. **Bake:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For an extra crunchy topping, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
8. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Remove from the oven and garnish with extra lobster meat and thinly sliced chives for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, creamy, and indulgent flavors.
Conclusion:
This Lobster Mac and Cheese offers a decadent twist on a classic favorite, combining creamy mac and cheese with the luxurious taste of lobster. The blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked paprika creates a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with tender lobster meat. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and fresh chives, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that promises both flavor and indulgence.