Print

Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake

Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake
Print Recipe

The Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake is a luxurious and comforting dish that combines tender lobster chunks with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Baked to a golden, bubbly finish with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping, this recipe elevates classic mac and cheese into an indulgent meal perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 1 lb fresh lobster meat, cooked and chopped

Pasta

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to remove raw flour taste without browning. Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Lobster and Combine: Gently fold the cooked lobster meat and drained pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated with the luscious mixture.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the macaroni and lobster-cheese mixture into a buttered baking dish. Evenly sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, then dot with melted butter to promote a golden, crispy crust.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and beautifully browned. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lobster meat for best flavor and texture, although thawed frozen lobster can be used if handled properly.
  • Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushiness in the final bake.
  • Constantly whisk the roux and cook just enough to eliminate raw flour flavor.
  • Mixing cheddar and Gruyère enhances creaminess and flavor complexity.
  • Let the bake rest after cooking to allow it to set for easier serving.
  • For extra crispy topping, mix melted butter thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs before sprinkling.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster, mac and cheese, baked macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, comfort food, seafood pasta, lobster recipe, cheesy bake

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/lobster-mac-and-cheese-bake/